Prosciutto wrapped melon may sound like an unusual pairing, but the combination of sweet melon and salty prosciutto really works. And it takes only a few minutes to put together, making it a great choice when you need an appetizer without much prep. Serve it as an easy appetizer for a party, brunch or any time you want something fresh and fun to snack on.
Prosciutto e melone is a classic Italian combination that I first learned about on a trip to Italy. It's one of those simple pairings that really shows how well just a few good ingredients can work together. Sweet, juicy melon and salty prosciutto is such a tasty, perfectly balanced combination. So I've been using that same combination at home ever since as an easy appetizer that can be assembled in just a few minutes. These prosciutto wrapped melon bites are also great for entertaining too. And adding a little balsamic glaze gives them an extra pop of flavor and color.
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Ingredients
- Cantaloupe
- Prosciutto
- Balsamic glaze (optional)
See recipe card for quantities.
Instructions
Step 1: Cut the prosciutto into halves or thirds and set aside.
Step 2: Cut the cantaloupe in half and scoop out the seeds. Then cut one half into slices and remove the rind. Cut the slices into smaller pieces about 2 inches pieces. Pat dry.
Step 3: Wrap a piece of prosciutto around each piece of melon, starting underneath. Press the end of the prosciutto firmly against the wrapped prosciutto to secure it. Drizzle with balsamic glaze, if desired. If using balsamic glaze, insert a toothpick into each piece for easier serving. Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve.
Substitutions and Variations
- Gluten free - prosciutto wrapped melon is naturally gluten free, so no substitutions are needed.
- Vegan - to make this recipe vegan, you would need to use a vegan prosciutto substitute.
- Cantaloupe - you can substitute golden melon, honeydew melon or another firm melon. Watermelon is a little too watery for this recipe.
- Prosciutto - you can substitute Serrano ham or another thinly sliced, cured ham.
- Balsamic glaze - balsamic glaze is optional for this recipe, so you could leave it out. You could also drizzle a little honey or serve honey on the side for a little added sweetness.
Equipment
No special equipment is needed for this recipe.
Storage
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. But the melon will start to soften and release moisture, so it's best to eat prosciutto wrapped melon the same day.
Next Level Tips
- Pick a firm, sweet smelling melon! And don't forget to pat the slices dry to remove any extra moisture.
- Prosciutto and melon is a very popular Italian appetizer. But, really, it's great any time of year that you can buy fresh melon. Serve it alongside baked prosciutto wrapped dates or as an upgrade to a Trader Joe's charcuterie board.
- If you're using balsamic glaze, also use toothpicks. The toothpicks aren't necessary to get the prosciutto to stick, but they are helpful as the balsamic glaze is naturally sticky.
FAQ
Yes, but I recommend making them no more than a few hours ahead of time. Wrap the melon pieces and then place them in the refrigerator. If you are using a balsamic glaze drizzle, then wait to drizzle until just before serving.
Yes, you can use any shape you want. Melon balls are typically small, so you'll want to cut your prosciutto accordingly. Square melon chunks also work really well. The cantaloupe does not have to be cut into slices.
Related
Looking for other recipes like this? Try these:
Prosciutto Wrapped Melon
Ingredients
- ½ cantaloupe sliced
- 4 ounces prosciutto
- balsamic glaze for drizzling
Instructions
- Cut the prosciutto lengthwise into halves or thirds, depending on the size of the slices. Set aside.
- Cut the cantaloupe in half and scoop out the seeds. Cut one half into slices, then remove the rind. Cut the melon slices into approximately 2 inch pieces and pat dry with paper towels. (If the melon is small, repeat with other half of the melon if needed.)
- Wrap a piece of prosciutto around each piece of melon, starting underneath. Press the end of the prosciutto firmly against the wrapped prosciutto to secure it.
- Drizzle with balsamic glaze, if desired. If using balsamic glaze, insert a toothpick into each piece for easier serving. Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve. Enjoy!
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