If you’re looking for an appetizer that combines elegance, rich flavors, and ease of preparation, look no further than Rosemary Roasted Fig and Prosciutto Skewers. These delightful skewers offer a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and herbaceous notes, making them an excellent starter for dinner parties, wine nights, or any gathering that calls for something special.

The sweetness of roasted figs, the salty crispness of prosciutto, and the aromatic flavor of fresh rosemary make this dish stand out. The rosemary sprigs themselves serve as skewers, infusing the entire dish with a subtle herbal fragrance as the figs and prosciutto roast to perfection. Whether you’re serving these as part of a sophisticated appetizer platter or simply enjoying them with a glass of wine, these skewers are guaranteed to impress.

In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about making these Rosemary Roasted Fig and Prosciutto Skewers, including step-by-step instructions, tips for success, and pairing suggestions. Let’s dive in!

Why This Recipe Works

The combination of figs and prosciutto is a classic in Italian and Mediterranean cuisine. Figs offer natural sweetness and a tender texture that contrasts beautifully with the salty, crispy prosciutto. Wrapping figs in prosciutto and skewering them on rosemary sprigs brings the dish to life by adding a fresh, herbal note. Roasting caramelizes the figs, enhances their sweetness, and crisps up the prosciutto for a delightful bite every time.

The Role of Rosemary in this Dish

Rosemary plays a dual role in this recipe. Not only does it act as a skewer for the figs and prosciutto, but it also infuses the dish with its earthy, piney aroma. As the skewers roast, the rosemary releases its oils, adding depth to the overall flavor profile. This unique twist transforms the dish from a simple appetizer into something truly memorable and aromatic.

Ingredients for Rosemary Roasted Fig and Prosciutto Skewers

To make these savory skewers, you’ll need just a handful of high-quality ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Skewers:

  • 8 fresh figs, halved
  • 8 slices of prosciutto, cut in half lengthwise
  • 8 fresh rosemary sprigs (use the woody stems as skewers)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp balsamic glaze (or balsamic vinegar)
  • 1 tsp honey
  • 1/2 tsp fresh cracked black pepper

Optional Garnishes:

  • 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese
  • Additional fresh rosemary leaves for garnish
  • Extra balsamic glaze for drizzling

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Figs and Prosciutto

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven heats, slice each fresh fig in half. Then, take each slice of prosciutto and cut it lengthwise so that you have thin strips of prosciutto that are easy to wrap around the figs.

2. Assemble the Skewers

Next, remove the lower leaves from the rosemary sprigs, leaving some leaves at the top for a decorative touch. Wrap each fig half in a slice of prosciutto and carefully skewer it onto the rosemary sprig. Depending on the length of your rosemary sprigs, you can add two or three fig halves to each skewer.

3. Make the Glaze

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic glaze (or balsamic vinegar), honey, and cracked black pepper. This glaze will help the figs caramelize and add a delightful sweet-tart flavor to the dish.

4. Roast the Skewers

Place the assembled skewers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush them generously with the olive oil and balsamic mixture, ensuring each fig is well-coated. Roast the skewers in the preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes, or until the prosciutto is crispy and the figs are soft and caramelized.

5. Garnish and Serve

Once the skewers are done roasting, remove them from the oven and transfer them to a serving platter. For added richness, sprinkle crumbled goat cheese over the skewers. The tangy, creamy goat cheese complements the sweetness of the figs and the saltiness of the prosciutto beautifully.

If desired, garnish the skewers with fresh rosemary leaves and drizzle a little more balsamic glaze over the top. Serve immediately while warm.

Tips for Making the Perfect Skewers

  • Choose Ripe Figs: Fresh figs that are ripe and soft work best for this recipe. They will caramelize more easily and offer a sweeter, more intense flavor. If you can’t find fresh figs, dried figs can be substituted, but make sure to soak them in warm water for about 10 minutes to rehydrate them before use.
  • High-Quality Prosciutto: Since prosciutto is a key ingredient, opt for high-quality prosciutto for the best results. Look for prosciutto that is thinly sliced and has a good balance of saltiness and fat.
  • Use Fresh Rosemary: Using rosemary sprigs as skewers not only adds flavor but also makes for a beautiful presentation. If you don’t have fresh rosemary, you can use regular wooden skewers and sprinkle the dish with dried rosemary before roasting.
  • Don’t Overcook: Keep an eye on the skewers as they roast. You want the prosciutto to be crispy, but the figs should remain tender. Overcooking can cause the figs to become too mushy and the prosciutto to become overly tough.

Variations and Serving Suggestions

1. Add Cheese: While goat cheese is the most common choice to pair with figs, you can experiment with different cheeses. Try blue cheese for a bolder flavor or ricotta for a milder, creamier texture.

2. Grill Instead of Roast: If you prefer a smoky flavor, you can grill the skewers instead of roasting them. Grill over medium heat for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until the prosciutto is crispy and the figs are caramelized.

3. Pair with Wine: These skewers pair beautifully with a variety of wines. A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light red wine such as Pinot Noir complements the sweet and savory elements of this dish.

4. Serve on a Mezze Platter: For a Mediterranean-style mezze platter, serve these skewers alongside olives, roasted peppers, hummus, and pita bread.

5. Add Nuts: For extra texture and flavor, sprinkle toasted pine nuts or walnuts over the skewers just before serving. The crunchy nuts add a delightful contrast to the soft figs and prosciutto.

Nutritional Benefits

Rosemary Roasted Fig and Prosciutto Skewers not only taste great, but they also provide several nutritional benefits.

  • Figs are rich in fiber, which supports healthy digestion. They also contain vitamins A, C, and K, as well as antioxidants that promote overall health.
  • Prosciutto offers a good source of protein and contains essential vitamins such as B12. However, since prosciutto can be high in sodium, it’s best enjoyed in moderation.
  • Rosemary is a powerful herb known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It also aids in digestion and boosts circulation.

A Gourmet Appetizer for Any Occasion

Rosemary Roasted Fig and Prosciutto Skewers are a perfect blend of sweet, savory, and herbal flavors. They are incredibly simple to prepare, yet they look and taste like something straight out of a gourmet kitchen. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or looking for a sophisticated appetizer to serve with wine, these skewers will not disappoint. The combination of roasted figs, crispy prosciutto, and aromatic rosemary is sure to impress your guests and leave them craving more.