Beet Napoleons with Prosciutto Roses

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Introduction

Beet Napoleons with Prosciutto Roses are a sophisticated, eye-catching appetizer that brings together the earthy sweetness of roasted beets, creamy goat cheese, and crispy prosciutto in a perfectly layered stack. These bite-sized beauties are not only a visual delight but also a balance of textures and flavors, making them ideal for special occasions or upscale gatherings. The prosciutto roses add an extra touch of elegance, transforming these appetizers into a gourmet showstopper.

The first time I made these, I was taken aback by how impressive they looked with such minimal effort. Layering the roasted beets with creamy goat cheese felt like assembling a work of art, and wrapping the prosciutto into delicate rose shapes elevated the dish to something truly special. When they hit the table, everyone couldn’t help but admire them before digging in.

What I love most about Beet Napoleons with Prosciutto Roses is how they can be customized for different flavors. You can switch up the cheese for something like ricotta or feta, or add a drizzle of balsamic glaze for an extra burst of tangy sweetness. These appetizers aren’t just delicious—they make a stunning statement at any event, turning even the simplest gathering into an unforgettable affair.

Perfect for:

  • Elegant dinner parties
  • Holiday gatherings
  • Romantic dinners
  • Brunch spreads
  • Wine and cheese nights

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why Beet Napoleons with Prosciutto Roses will become a favorite appetizer:

  • Visually Stunning: The layered beets and delicate prosciutto roses create an eye-catching dish.
  • Balanced Flavors: Sweet beets, tangy goat cheese, and salty prosciutto create the perfect bite.
  • Easy Yet Impressive: Simple ingredients come together for a dish that looks gourmet.
  • Make-Ahead Friendly: Components can be prepared in advance for easy assembly.
  • Healthy and Nutritious: Beets are packed with antioxidants, and goat cheese adds protein and calcium.

Preparation and Cooking Time

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Preparation Time: 20 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 25 minutes
  • Servings: 4 servings
  • Calories per serving: Approximately 250-300 calories
  • Key Nutrients: Protein: 10g, Carbs: 15g, Fat: 18g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make Beet Napoleons with Prosciutto Roses:

  • 3 medium beets, roasted and peeled
  • 4 oz goat cheese, softened
  • 2 tablespoons honey or balsamic glaze
  • ¼ cup chopped walnuts, toasted
  • 6 slices prosciutto
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon sea salt
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (for garnish)
  • 1 cup baby arugula (for plating)

Ingredient Highlights

  • Beets: Naturally sweet and earthy, beets create a vibrant base for the napoleons.
  • Goat Cheese: Creamy and slightly tangy, it pairs beautifully with beets and prosciutto.
  • Prosciutto: Thinly sliced and crisped for texture or shaped into delicate rose garnishes.
  • Honey/Balsamic Glaze: Adds a touch of sweetness and depth of flavor.
  • Toasted Walnuts: Provide crunch and nutty richness to the dish.
  • Fresh Thyme: Enhances the aroma and complements the flavors.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Beets:

  1. Roast the Beets: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Wrap whole beets in foil, drizzle with olive oil, and roast for 45-50 minutes until fork-tender.
  2. Cool and Peel: Once cooled, rub the skins off with a paper towel. Slice into thin rounds (about ¼-inch thick).

Prepare the Goat Cheese Mixture:

  1. Mix the Cheese: In a small bowl, blend goat cheese with honey or balsamic glaze, black pepper, and sea salt until smooth.

Assemble the Napoleons:

  1. Layer the Beets: Place one beet slice on a serving plate. Spread a thin layer of goat cheese on top.
  2. Repeat Layers: Add another beet slice and another layer of goat cheese. Repeat until you have 3-4 layers per napoleon.

Make the Prosciutto Roses:

  1. Shape the Roses: Fold a slice of prosciutto in half lengthwise and roll it tightly into a rose shape.
  2. Secure if Needed: Tuck the edges to hold the shape or use a toothpick if necessary.

Assemble the Dish:

  1. Top with Prosciutto Roses: Place one prosciutto rose on each beet napoleon.
  2. Garnish: Sprinkle with toasted walnuts, fresh thyme, and a drizzle of honey or balsamic glaze.
  3. Serve with Arugula: Arrange baby arugula around the napoleons for a fresh contrast.

How to Serve

  • Elegant Plating – Stack the beet layers neatly with prosciutto roses on top and drizzle balsamic glaze around the plate for a restaurant-style presentation.
  • On a Bed of Greens – Serve on a bed of arugula or baby spinach, lightly dressed with olive oil and lemon juice for a fresh contrast.
  • Mini Appetizers – Make bite-sized versions using small beet rounds and mini prosciutto roses, perfect for cocktail parties.
  • With a Cheese Pairing – Serve alongside a cheese platter featuring goat cheese, ricotta, or burrata for added creaminess.
  • On a Wooden Board – Arrange multiple Beet Napoleons on a rustic wooden board with nuts and honey for a beautiful charcuterie-style presentation.
  • Layered with Crispy Phyllo – Add thin, crispy phyllo layers between the beets for a delightful textural contrast.
  • With Microgreens Garnish – Sprinkle microgreens, such as pea shoots or radish sprouts, on top for a gourmet touch.
  • As a Side Dish – Serve as an elegant side to a main course like grilled steak, roasted chicken, or seared salmon.
  • With Edible Flowers – Decorate the plate with edible flowers like nasturtiums or pansies for a visually stunning presentation.
  • On Individual Spoons – Deconstruct the dish and serve each component on tasting spoons for a fun, modern amuse-bouche.

Additional Tips

  • Roast the Beets: Roasting the beets intensifies their flavor and sweetness. Wrap them in foil and bake at 400°F for 45–60 minutes until tender.
  • Chill the Beets: After roasting, chill the beets before slicing for cleaner cuts and better presentation.
  • Slice Thin: Use a mandolin or a sharp knife to slice the beets thinly, ensuring each layer is delicate and easy to stack.
  • Crisp the Prosciutto: For extra flavor, lightly crisp the prosciutto in a hot pan for a few seconds before shaping it into roses.
  • Layer with Cheese: Add a layer of goat cheese, ricotta, or mascarpone between the beet slices for a creamy contrast to the earthy beets.
  • Vinegar or Balsamic Glaze: Drizzle a balsamic glaze or a splash of sherry vinegar on top of the beets for acidity that balances the richness of the prosciutto.
  • Fresh Herbs: Garnish with fresh thyme, basil, or arugula to add brightness and a fresh contrast to the rich flavors.
  • Use a Ring Mold: If you want perfectly shaped Napoleons, use a ring mold to stack and hold your layers neatly.
  • Chill Before Serving: Assemble the Napoleons in advance and chill them to allow the flavors to meld together, making the presentation even more refined.
  • Serve with a Side Salad: Pair with a light side salad of mixed greens or arugula dressed with a simple vinaigrette for a well-rounded dish.

Recipe Variations

  1. Vegan Version: Replace goat cheese with cashew cheese and omit the prosciutto.
  2. Blue Cheese Twist: Substitute goat cheese with crumbled blue cheese for a stronger flavor.
  3. Pistachio Crunch: Swap walnuts for crushed pistachios for a Mediterranean flair.
  4. Citrus Infusion: Add orange zest to the goat cheese mixture for a fresh citrus note.
  5. Spicy Kick: Sprinkle with crushed red pepper flakes for a hint of heat.
  6. Avocado Addition: Layer slices of avocado between the beets for extra creaminess.
  7. Fig and Beet: Add thin slices of fresh figs for a natural sweetness.
  8. Prosciutto Chips: Crisp the prosciutto in the oven and crumble it over the napoleons for added crunch.
  9. Truffle Upgrade: Drizzle with a touch of truffle oil for an elevated finish.
  10. Herbed Cheese: Mix fresh basil or chives into the goat cheese for extra herbaceous flavor.

Freezing and Storage

  • Storage: Store assembled napoleons in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours.
  • Prosciutto Roses: Can be shaped and stored separately for up to 3 days.
  • Beets: Roasted beets can be refrigerated for up to 5 days before assembly.

Special Equipment

  • Mandoline Slicer – Ensures uniform, thin beet slices for even stacking.
  • Ring Molds – Helps shape and assemble the Napoleon layers neatly.
  • Sharp Chef’s Knife – Essential for slicing beets and prosciutto cleanly.
  • Small Offset Spatula – Useful for spreading soft cheese or sauce evenly between layers.
  • Microplane/Zester – Perfect for adding a fine citrus zest or Parmesan garnish.
  • Piping Bag – Helps create elegant cheese dollops for a refined presentation.
  • Tweezers or Tongs – Useful for precisely placing microgreens or garnishes.
  • Silicone Brush – Helps apply a light glaze of balsamic reduction or dressing.
  • Paring Knife – Great for shaping and adjusting beet slices or delicate garnishes.
  • Chilled Plate or Serving Platter – Keeps the Napoleons fresh and stable during assembly and serving.

FAQ

  1. Can I use store-bought cooked beets? Yes, pre-cooked beets save time and work well in this recipe.
  2. What if I don’t like goat cheese? You can substitute it with ricotta, mascarpone, or cream cheese.
  3. Can I make this without prosciutto? Absolutely! Try smoked salmon or omit it for a vegetarian version.
  4. What wine pairs best? Light, crisp wines like Sauvignon Blanc or Prosecco complement the dish well.
  5. Can I roast the beets in advance? Yes, roasted beets can be stored in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Conclusion

Beet Napoleons with Prosciutto Roses are a stunning appetizer that combines vibrant colors, delicate flavors, and a touch of gourmet elegance. These beautiful bites are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a dinner party, holiday gathering, or a special meal. With their vibrant beets, creamy cheese, and savory prosciutto, they offer a delicious harmony of sweet, creamy, and savory flavors that are as delightful to the eyes as they are to the palate.

Easy to prepare with plenty of room for customization, these Napoleons can be made ahead and assembled just before serving for a stress-free, impressive dish. The prosciutto roses add a sophisticated touch, making each bite feel like a celebration.

I can’t wait to see your Beet Napoleon creations! Be sure to snap a photo and tag me on Instagram—I’d love to see how you bring this elegant dish to life. Don’t forget to share your favorite variations in the comments. Happy cooking!

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