BUTTERNUT SQUASH SOUP WITH CRISPY PROSCIUTTO RECIPE

Steps:

• Preheat oven 350 Arrange the prosciutto slices in a single layer on a 2 baking sheets and bake until crisp about 20 mins. Transfer the baking sheets to wire racks and let the prosciutto cool completely. Meanwhile, in a 5 1/2 quart Dutch oven over med high heat, melt 2 TBSP of the butter. Add enough pear slices to form a single layer and cook, turning once, until caramelized on both sides, 4-5 minutes total. Transfer to a plate. Repeat to cook the remaining pears. In the same pot over med heat, melt the remaining 3 TBSP butter. Add the celery and onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened, about 10 mins. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Stir in the butternut squash puree, the 4 cups broth, thyme, half of the pears, salt and pepper. Bring to a boil, reduce the heat to med low and simmer for 10 mins. Using a blender, puree the soup in batches until smooth. Return the soup to the pot and stir in the half and half Add more broth if needed to reach the desired consistency. Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with the prosciutto and remaining pear slices. Serve immediately. Serves 12