Archive for ‘Starters’

October 2, 2011

Prosciutto Wrapped Figs with Goat Cheese & Balsamic

Prosciutto Wrapped Figs with Goat Cheese & Balsamic

When I look at a recipe or a menu, my eyes always scan the list of ingredients first. On a trip to the market I stumbled across fresh figs. They’re usually not available in my market. I just couldn’t resist. So I thought… sweet fresh figs, salty prosciutto, creamy goat cheese, tangy balsamic, fresh rosemary… what’s not to like about that combination?! So here’s what I came up with. They looked impressive, yet only took about 10 minutes to put together and less than 5 to cook. It’s a great choice for entertaining. An appetizer that is sure to impress your friends and family.

INGREDIENTS (serves 4-6)

  • 6 fresh figs
  • 6 slices prosciutto
  • Small wedge goat cheese
  • 1 sprig fresh rosemary
  • balsamic for drizzle

Cut the stems from each fig and slice in half lengthwise. Place about 1/2 tsp of goat cheese on each fig half. Top with 2 rosemary leaves (literally two little leaves). Slice each piece of prosciutto in half lengthwise, making two long strips per slice. Wrap each half slice of prosciutto around each fig half, covering the goat cheese. Place the figs on a foil lined sheet pan and broil for 3-5 minutes, until the prosciutto begins to crisp and the cheese is warmed through. Keep an eye on these while under the broiler, don’t walk away… they cook very quickly.

To serve, place on a plate and drizzle balsamic vinegar over each piece. It’s a taste sensation! Sweet, salty and savory flavors – perfectly matched with the bite from the vinegar. The creamy goat cheese and fig melt in your mouth. I will be serving these next time we entertain… assuming I can find fresh figs again at the market.

* You can experiment with these by substituting gorgonzola for the goat cheese or make them without the prosciutto to keep it vegetarian. Without the prosciutto, I would only broil them for a minute to warm the cheese. Again, don’t walk away from these when placed under the broiler.

August 8, 2011

Roasted Peppers with Garlic & Anchovies

Roasted Peppers with Garlic & Anchovies

This recipe was given to me by an old family friend a few years ago, so I don’t know its origin. Since anchovies are one of my favorite ingredients, I was anxious to give this a try. It’s turned out to be one of our favorite starters or even an afternoon snack. You might think you don’t like anchovies, but you’d be surprised what a little time roasting in the oven with slivered garlic can do to these delicious little fish. Anchovies impart a saltiness and flavor that can’t be achieved by anything else. The combination of the roasted garlic and peppers, with the salty anchovies is amazing. If you’re truly an anchovy hater, make these without them. They’re still delicious, but I think you should give the anchovies a try… you might actually like them.

INGREDIENTS (Serves 4-6)

  • 2 large red bell peppers
  • 2 large yellow bell peppers
  • 3 tbsp olive oil, divided
  • 3-4 cloves of garlic, thinly sliced
  • 8 or more flat anchovies in olive oil, drained and sliced in half
  • Chopped basil and/or parsley
  • Fresh cracked pepper

Preheat your oven to 450 degrees.

Cut the peppers down the sides into wide slices removing ribs – about 4 to 6 slices each depending on the size of the peppers. Rub some of the olive oil over the peppers to make sure they’re lightly coated. Lay the peppers cut sides up (like little boats) on a sheet pan. Lay a couple of garlic slices and half an anchovy in each pepper. If you love anchovies, put a whole anchovy in each. Season with freshly ground pepper. You don’t need salt if you are using anchovies, they’re salty enough. If you’re making this without anchovies, sprinkle with kosher salt. Drizzle remaining olive oil over the peppers. You will want a little oil in each pepper “boat” with the garlic and anchovies.

Roast in the oven for 30-40 minutes until the peppers have softened and the edges begin to brown. Right before serving, top with the herbs. These can be served hot right out of the oven or at room temperature. Serve with some crusty french bread. Leftovers (if you have any) are really good.