The Golden Gate Appetizer (Printable version)

Crisp breadsticks and savory prosciutto combine to create a playful, shareable appetizer inspired by the Golden Gate.

# What You’ll Need:

→ Breadsticks

01 - 12 long, thin breadsticks (grissini)

→ Charcuterie

02 - 8 thin slices prosciutto

→ Garnish (optional)

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

# Directions:

01 - Arrange six breadsticks vertically on a large serving platter to form one tower. Repeat on the opposite side to create a second tower, leaving adequate space between them.
02 - Drape the prosciutto slices gently in long ribbons between the two towers, layering and twisting them to achieve a woven suspension bridge effect.
03 - Lightly brush the breadsticks with olive oil using a pastry brush, then sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and basil if desired to enhance flavor.
04 - Present immediately, inviting guests to pull apart the bridge and towers for sharing.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • It's a conversation starter that doesn't require you to be a culinary artist, just someone willing to play with your food.
  • Takes ten minutes total and somehow feels fancier than anything that required actual cooking.
  • People instinctively break it apart together, which somehow makes a party feel less awkward right from the start.
02 -
  • If your breadsticks are too thin or soft, they'll collapse the second someone touches them—test one in advance and swap them out if necessary.
  • Arrange everything just before serving because prosciutto can get a little damp and lose its delicate texture if it sits draped for too long.
03 -
  • The secret to prosciutto ribbons that actually drape is keeping them cold until the last moment and handling them minimally—warm hands make them stick to themselves.
  • If the towers seem wobbly, cluster the breadsticks a tiny bit closer together, and don't stress about perfection; the charming imperfection is the whole point.
Go back