"Every event needs a quick appetizer that's more assembly than cooking," writes culinary creator Shea McGee in her debut cookbook, Around the Table. And McGee's sweet, slightly decadent apple and brie bites — which take just 20 minutes to throw together — perfectly fit the bill.
"The apple is crisp and sweet, paired with creamy Brie and salty prosciutto," McGee continues. "Topped with a drizzle of honey and a little flaky sea salt, it's a near-flawless starter." McGee notes that you'll want to pick an especially sweet apple, like Honeycrisp or Gala, for this simple hors d'oeuvre, so save your Granny Smiths for baking.
You probably know McGee for her renowned work as an interior designer. So, you can expect these refreshing appetizers to instantly jazz up any table, since they're as pretty as they are tasty. McGee suggests serving them on toothpicks or sleek metal skewers if you've got them, but those implements aren't required to join the fun. The only thing you'll really need (besides your fruit, meat, and cheese) is a bustling party.
Shea McGee's Apple and Brie Snack Recipe
Yield: 16-20 bundles
Prep: 20 minutes
Ingredients
- 2 medium apples, such as Gala or Honeycrisp
- 8 ounces double-crème Brie
- 10 slices prosciutto
- 1 bunch fresh basil leaves
- Honey and flaky sea salt, for serving
Instructions
- Core and slice the apples, yielding eight to 10 slices per apple.
- Thinly slice the Brie into ¼-inch wide strips, halving them cross-wise as needed to make 16 to 20 slices approximately 3 inches long.
- Place a piece of Brie on top of the apple slice, then add a basil leaf. Tear the prosciutto in half crosswise and wrap the apple and Brie with one half of the prosciutto. Repeat with all remaining apple slices. Secure with a toothpick or skewer, if desired.
- Arrange the bites on a serving platter. Drizzle with honey, sprinkle with flaky sea salt, and serve.
Tip: If preparing in advance, toss the apple slices in cold water, then pat dry and continue assembling. This will prevent the apples from browning.
Courtesy of Harper Horizon, an imprint of HarperCollins Focus.
