Prosciutto and Melon Bites

Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner party or an upscale event, these prosciutto e melone bites add sophistication without the fuss. The pairing of the salt-cured prosciutto with the natural sweetness of ripe cantaloupe melon creates a delicious contrast. Plus, these bites are quick and easy to prepare, making them an ideal option for last-minute entertaining.

Italian cuisine is known for its simplicity, and prosciutto e melone perfectly embodies this philosophy. There are only a few ingredients, but when chosen carefully, the result is an incredibly flavorful and refreshing dish. This appetizer not only looks beautiful when plated but also provides a light yet satisfying bite that pairs wonderfully with wine, making it a great starter or snack for any occasion.

For more appetizers bites, check out also these Eggplant Pizza Bites, and these Potato Rosemary Puff Pastry Tarts.

🧾 Ingredients

To make these delicious prosciutto e melone bites, you’ll need only a handful of high-quality ingredients. Here’s a detailed list of what you’ll need, along with some helpful recommendations.

• Melon (Cantaloupe or Honeydew): The star of the show is a ripe, sweet melon. Cantaloupe is traditionally used, but honeydew is also an excellent choice if you prefer a slightly different flavor. Look for a melon that’s heavy for its size, with a slightly sweet aroma at the stem end—this indicates ripeness.
• Prosciutto: Prosciutto is a dry-cured Italian ham that is thinly sliced and melts in your mouth. Opt for prosciutto di Parma if available, as it’s known for its tenderness and balance of flavors. Make sure the prosciutto slices are thin, as this will wrap around the melon pieces nicely.
• Fresh Basil (Optional): Adding fresh basil leaves to the bites can introduce a new dimension of flavor. The herbal, slightly peppery taste of basil pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the melon and the savory prosciutto.
• Balsamic Glaze (Optional): A drizzle of balsamic glaze adds a touch of acidity and a hint of sweetness that complements both the melon and the prosciutto. You can buy balsamic glaze at the store or make your own by reducing balsamic vinegar on the stove.
• Toothpicks or Small Skewers: These are necessary for securing the bites together. You can use decorative toothpicks or wooden cocktail skewers for a fancier presentation.

See the recipe card for quantities.

🥣 Variations

There are countless ways to modify this recipe based on your preferences or the occasion. Here are some popular variations:

• Cheese Addition: Add a small cube of mozzarella, burrata, or goat cheese to each skewer. The creaminess of the cheese complements the saltiness of the prosciutto and the sweetness of the melon.
• Fruit Swaps: While melon is the classic choice, other fruits like pear, peach, or nectarine also pair wonderfully with prosciutto. These fruits bring a different sweetness and texture to the dish.
• Prosciutto-Wrapped Melon: Instead of using toothpicks, you can make larger bites by fully wrapping slices of melon with prosciutto for a more substantial appetizer.
• Seasonal Additions: Sprinkle some crushed nuts, like pistachios or almonds, on top for extra texture and flavor. Alternatively, a dusting of black pepper or a light sprinkle of sea salt can enhance the flavor profile of this dish.
• Prosciutto and Melon Skewers: Use longer skewers and alternate the prosciutto and melon pieces to make single appetizer portions.

📋 Instructions with Photos

Step 1. Slice the cantaloupe melon into even slices. Cut out the bites using the vegetable cutters in the shape you prefer.

Step 2. Cut the prosciutto slices into pieces and top the melon bites. Secure with a toothpick or cocktail pick.

🔪 Equipment

Making prosciutto e melone bites doesn’t require much equipment, which is one of the reasons this appetizer is so easy to prepare. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Small Cutters: Use small vegetable cutters to cut out the melon into cute bites. Alternatively, you can also use a sharp knife and chop it into cubes.
• Cutting Board: Use a sturdy cutting board when prepping your melon and prosciutto.
• Toothpicks or Skewers: Choose simple wooden toothpicks or decorative cocktail picks depending on the look you want for your appetizer.
• Small Platter or Plate: For serving, a large platter or several small plates work well to arrange the bites attractively.

❄️ Storage & Reheating

If you have leftovers, you can store prosciutto e melone bites in the refrigerator, but they are best when served fresh. Here are some storage tips:

• Fridge: Place any leftovers in an airtight container. They will last for up to 1 day, but note that the melon may release some moisture, and the prosciutto could lose its crispness over time. If you’re preparing them ahead, consider storing the melon and prosciutto separately, then assembling them right before serving to maintain the best texture.
• Freezer: Prosciutto and melon do not freeze well together due to the high water content in the melon. Freezing will result in a mushy texture and loss of flavor. It’s best to avoid freezing this dish.

To keep the melon fresh and the prosciutto crisp, aim to assemble the bites as close to serving time as possible. This way, you’ll retain the perfect balance of textures and flavors that make this dish so delightful.

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