The Golden Gate Appetizer (Print)

Playful appetizer with breadstick towers linked by savory prosciutto ribbons, perfect for entertaining or casual snacking.

# Components:

→ Breadsticks

01 - 12 long, thin breadsticks (grissini)

→ Charcuterie

02 - 8 thin slices prosciutto

→ Garnish

03 - 2 tablespoons freshly grated Parmesan cheese
04 - 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh basil
05 - 1 tablespoon olive oil

# Directions:

01 - Arrange 6 breadsticks vertically on a large serving platter to create one tower. Repeat on the opposite side for the second tower, leaving space between them.
02 - Drape prosciutto slices as long ribbons between the two towers, layering and twisting to form a woven suspension bridge.
03 - Lightly brush the breadsticks with olive oil, then sprinkle evenly with Parmesan cheese and chopped basil if desired.
04 - Present immediately and encourage guests to pull apart the bridge and towers to enjoy.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • It looks impressive but takes barely ten minutes, making you feel like a clever host without the stress.
  • Guests actually interact with it instead of just eating from a plate, turning snacking into a conversation starter.
  • It works for vegetarians with simple swaps, so nobody feels left out when you serve it.
02 -
  • Prosciutto is delicate and wants to tear, so let it fall naturally into folds rather than forcing it into neat lines—the wrinkles actually look more intentional and beautiful.
  • Don't assemble this more than a few minutes before serving, or the breadsticks will start pulling moisture from the prosciutto and lose their snap.
03 -
  • If your breadsticks are thin enough, they won't topple; thicker ones might need a small dot of cream cheese on the platter to anchor them, which also adds flavor.
  • Tear a tiny taste of the prosciutto before you start to see how delicate it is that day, so you know how gently to handle the rest.
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