Celebrate the holidays with these Fig & Prosciutto Ricotta Towers! Not only do they combine the creamy richness of ricotta with the salty savoriness of prosciutto and the natural sweetness of figs, but they are also elevated with a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a perfect balance of flavors. Moreover, these towers are ideal for festive gatherings, offering a dish that is both delicious and visually captivating.
Ingredients
- 1 cup fresh ricotta cheese
- 6 fresh figs, halved
- 6 slices prosciutto, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp balsamic glaze
- Microgreens for garnish
- 1 tsp honey (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the figs: Wash and halve the fresh figs. Set aside.
- Assemble the towers:
- Start with a small dollop of ricotta as the base on your serving plate.
- Add a slice of prosciutto, folding it neatly.
- Repeat layering ricotta and prosciutto until you have three layers. Top with a halved fig.
- Drizzle with glaze: Carefully drizzle balsamic glaze over the tower, allowing it to cascade elegantly down the sides for a refined presentation.
- Garnish and finish: Next, sprinkle fresh microgreens on top and, if desired, add a light drizzle of honey for a touch of sweetness. Finally, season with a pinch of salt and pepper to enhance the flavors.
- Serve immediately: Arrange on a platter and impress your guests with this stunning appetizer.
Helpful Tips
- Choose the freshest ingredients: Always opt for ripe, juicy figs and high-quality ricotta cheese. Fresh produce not only enhances the flavor but also elevates the overall presentation of the dish.
- Chill before serving: For the best texture, refrigerate the assembled towers for about 20 minutes before serving. This step allows the flavors to meld while keeping the ricotta firm.
- Experiment with garnishes: While balsamic glaze and microgreens are classic choices, you could also use fresh mint leaves, crushed pistachios, or edible flowers for an elegant twist.
- Prepare components ahead of time: To save time during assembly, slice the figs and prepare the ricotta mixture in advance. Keep them covered and refrigerated until you’re ready to build the towers.
- Use sturdy serving plates: When arranging the towers, choose plates with a slightly raised edge to catch any balsamic glaze that drips down, ensuring your table stays neat and clean.
- Double the recipe for larger gatherings: If you’re hosting a party, this recipe can easily be scaled up. Make extra layers and assemble them just before your guests arrive.
- Keep it gluten-free: Since this recipe is naturally gluten-free, it’s a great option for those with dietary restrictions. Simply ensure any accompaniments, like bread or crackers, are gluten-free as well.
Substitutions and Variations for Fig & Prosciutto Ricotta Towers
Meat Options
- For a seafood twist, replace prosciutto with smoked salmon. Likewise, thinly sliced turkey or ham can be used for a milder flavor.
- If you’re looking for a vegetarian version, opt for grilled zucchini or roasted red peppers instead of prosciutto.
Fig Alternatives
- When fresh figs are unavailable, you can swap them with sliced fresh pears or apples for a similar fruity sweetness. Alternatively, roasted plums make an excellent substitute.
- Dried figs can also be used if softened in warm water for about 10–15 minutes.
Nuts and Seeds
- To add crunch, try sprinkling chopped pistachios, walnuts, or candied pecans. Alternatively, for a nut-free option, you can use sesame or sunflower seeds instead.
Herbal Infusion
- To enhance the flavor, mix chopped fresh thyme, rosemary, or mint into the ricotta. Similarly, garnishing with edible flowers like nasturtiums or pansies can elevate the presentation.
Glaze Variations
- If you prefer something different, use honey, maple syrup, or a fruit reduction such as pomegranate molasses as a glaze instead of balsamic. Additionally, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle spicy kick.
Texture Additions
- For added indulgence, layer thin slices of fresh mozzarella or brie between the ricotta and prosciutto. Similarly, crispy fried shallots or toasted breadcrumbs can provide a delightful crunch.
Plating Ideas
- To make the dish even more appealing, serve the towers on a bed of arugula or mixed greens for a fresh base. In addition, drizzle extra balsamic glaze around the plate for an elegant finish.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the ricotta mixture and slice the figs in advance. Store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Assemble the towers just before serving to maintain freshness and structure.
2. How do I prevent the towers from toppling over?
To ensure stability, slice the figs and ricotta layers evenly. Additionally, gently press down each layer as you assemble the towers, and use a skewer or toothpick for support if needed.
3. Is there a way to make this dish gluten-free?
Yes! This recipe is naturally gluten-free, but if you’re serving it with crackers or bread on the side, make sure they’re gluten-free as well.
4. Can I use dried figs instead of fresh?
While fresh figs are ideal for this recipe, you can use dried figs if necessary. Soften them by soaking in warm water for 10–15 minutes before slicing.
Fig & Prosciutto Ricotta Towers – Festive Appetizer Delight
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Delicate stacks of creamy ricotta, sweet figs, and savory prosciutto, drizzled with balsamic glaze and garnished with fresh microgreens. A show-stopping appetizer perfect for festive gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 cup fresh ricotta cheese
- 6 fresh figs, halved
- 6 slices prosciutto, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp balsamic glaze
- Microgreens for garnish
- 1 tsp honey (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the figs: Wash and halve the fresh figs. Set aside.
- Assemble the towers:
- Start with a small dollop of ricotta as the base on your serving plate.
- Add a slice of prosciutto, folding it neatly.
- Repeat layering ricotta and prosciutto until you have three layers. Top with a halved fig.
- Drizzle with glaze: Carefully drizzle balsamic glaze over the tower, letting it cascade down the sides for an elegant look.
- Garnish and finish: Sprinkle with fresh microgreens and add a light drizzle of honey if desired. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Serve immediately: Arrange on a platter and impress your guests with this stunning appetizer.
Notes
- Substitute goat cheese for ricotta if desired for a tangier flavor.
- Use pancetta or smoked salmon instead of prosciutto for a unique twist.
- Add crushed pistachios for a crunchy element.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: None
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: No-cook
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 tower
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 230mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 18mg
Keywords: Fig prosciutto appetizer, ricotta fig tower, festive appetizer ideas, balsamic glaze appetizers