proscuitto

Appetizers

Killer App: Crisped Proscuitto and Avocado Crostini

When I saw this recipe in a recent issue of Martha Stewart Living, I knew within two seconds of reading the title that I would be making it.

When I saw this recipe in a recent issue of Martha Stewart Living, I knew within two seconds of reading the title that I would be making it. I love crostini and I love avocado. The fact that it also involves crispy prosciutto and manchego cheese is just a plus. To make this delectable appetizer, you don't really need any cooking skills; you basically toast baguette slices, crisp the prosciutto, and layer it with mashed avocado and shaved cheese. Seriously, these crostini are incredibly easy, and the resulting bite is sure to be a hit with guests. It's also totally versatile: it would be equally delicious to start a Mexican, Spanish, or Italian menu. Learn the uncomplicated preparation after the jump.

recipes

No Brainer Appetizer: Proscuitto-Wrapped Mozzarella Skewers

Last night I attended a book launch for a yet-to-be released guide to the good life called Bixology.

Last night I attended a book launch for a yet-to-be released guide to the good life called Bixology. The book was written by Doug Biederbeck, the owner of San Francisco's popular restaurant Bix. The event was hosted at one of my favorite boutiques, Carrots, and the passed appetizers were original Bix creations. One of the delicious bites was an incredibly easy appetizer idea that I had to share with you! Proscuitto-wrapped mozzarella skewers are a fuss free, no-cook hors d'oeuvre perfect for a last-minute holiday party. I'll definitely be serving them at my next soiree. Here's how you make them:

  1. Look for a high-quality fresh mozzarella. Bix's cheese is pulled in house making for a creamy, luscious texture. Slice into 1/2-inch thick rounds.
  2. Wrap the outside edge with a piece of proscuitto and secure in place with a decorative toothpick.
  3. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with freshly ground pepper.

Voila — instant sophisticated appetizer!

Poll

Would You Eat This Charcuterie Plate?

One of the hottest new restaurants in town is becoming well known for its charcuterie plate.

One of the hottest new restaurants in town is becoming well known for its charcuterie plate. The last time I was there I ended up with the plate in the photo. I loved every bit of it, but my friend was a bit squeamish about the white proscuitto on the left. It looked too fatty and she refused to eat it. Her loss was definitely my gain, and I was able to enjoy all of the porky goodness. What do you think, would you have eaten it?

recipes

Sunday Dinner: Quail with Grapes and Grappa

Lately I've been experimenting with quail.

Lately I've been experimenting with quail. I love to order it at restaurants, but have little experience making it in my home kitchen. Sundays are a wonderful day for kitchen experiments, so I am going to give this recipe a whirl. The quail is seared, roasted, and covered in a tasty sauce. Proscuitto, grapes, shallots, and grappa — an Italian brandy — make the sauce incredibly flavorful. For the recipe, read more