Appetizers

Melon and Prosciutto Skewers

Name: Melon and Prosciutto Skewers
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 1 medium, ripe Cantaloupe melon; 100 g, thinly sliced Prosciutto (Cured Ham); 16 small, optional, for garnish Fresh mint leaves; 2 tbsp, optional, for drizzling Balsamic glaze; 16 count Small wooden skewers

15 min4 servingsEasy120 cal

A delightful and refreshing classic French appetizer, Melon and Prosciutto Skewers combine the sweet, juicy freshness of ripe melon with the savory, salty notes of thinly sliced cured ham. This no-cook dish is effortlessly elegant, perfect for summer entertaining or a light starter. The pairing of melon and cured ham, often prosciutto, is a culinary tradition with ancient roots, gaining immense popularity in both Italy and France. In France, it's a quintessential 'entrée' or 'apéritif' dish, particularly cherished during the summer months. It embodies the French appreciation for simple, high-quality ingredients that create a harmonious balance of flavors.

no-cookAppetizerFrenchSummerMelon

Ingredients

1 medium, ripe Cantaloupe melon
100 g, thinly sliced Prosciutto (Cured Ham)
16 small, optional, for garnish Fresh mint leaves
2 tbsp, optional, for drizzling Balsamic glaze
16 count Small wooden skewers

Instructions

1
Carefully wash the exterior of the cantaloupe melon. Cut the melon in half, scoop out the seeds and fibrous strands using a spoon.
2
Using a melon baller, scoop out small, uniform balls of melon. Alternatively, cut the melon flesh into bite-sized cubes (approximately 1-inch pieces).
3
Separate the slices of prosciutto. If the slices are very long, you may cut them in half crosswise. Fold each slice of prosciutto loosely into a wavy or ruffled shape.
4
Take one small wooden skewer. Thread a piece of melon onto the skewer, followed by a folded piece of prosciutto. Repeat this sequence, ensuring each skewer has 2 pieces of melon and 2 pieces of prosciutto.
5
If using, add a small fresh mint leaf to each skewer, tucking it between a melon and prosciutto piece for a burst of freshness and color.
6
Arrange the assembled skewers attractively on a serving platter. For an elegant touch, lightly drizzle with balsamic glaze just before serving, if desired.
7
For best flavor, serve immediately or chill briefly in the refrigerator before serving. Do not make too far in advance as melon can release liquid.

Chef's Tips

•Storage: Store any leftover assembled skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. However, they are best enjoyed fresh as the melon can become watery over time.
•Substitutions: Feel free to experiment with other sweet melon varieties such as honeydew or even watermelon for different color and flavor profiles. Jamón Serrano or another good quality cured ham can be used in place of prosciutto. For a vegetarian option, substitute the ham with fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini).
•Fun Fact: The classic pairing of melon and cured ham is believed to have originated in Italy, where it was historically served as an appetizer to balance the humors according to ancient dietary beliefs. It quickly became a beloved summer starter across Europe, including France.
•Presentation Tip: For a more sophisticated look, instead of folding the prosciutto, you can gently wrap a piece around each melon ball before skewering.