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Brian Kennett
Amateur Chef and Boozy Traveling Foodie Extraordinaire
Melon Ham Recipe: a classic Italian pairing, so simple, so delicious
Melon Ham next to each other on the menu: often referred to as Prosciutto e Melone in Italian cuisine, is a classic and delightful combination of flavors and textures. This dish typically features sweet and juicy melon paired with salty and savory ham, like prosciutto or Parma ham. The practice of serving melon with ham is believed to have originated in Northern Italy, where both ingredients were readily available. The contrast between the sweet melon and the salty ham creates a harmonious and refreshing flavor profile.
To prepare this dish, you can simply wrap bite-sized pieces of cantaloupe or honeydew melon with slices of Italian ham and skewer them onto sticks for a refreshing appetizer or snack. Additionally, some recipes may include ingredients like balsamic glaze, basil leaves, or rocket greens to enhance the dish’s overall taste.
Want to blow some minds Want to lay something on the table as a sharing platter that looks simply amazing? Want to watch every single face at the table make that “OMG!!!” face when they eat?
Read on my friends and read on quick as it is so simple, but man oh man does this deliver.
Good or great ingredients make this better, by the way, so don’t scrimp on the $, make sure you get the best!!!
- Take 1 Japanese Red Melon (from Yokohama) and cut it in half. Use a spoon to scoop the seeds out and then cut into ‘boats’. You want the boats quite thin, so you should get 8 slices from one half of the melon,
- Lay these on a serving platter,
- Take 1 packet of Iberico cured ham. Slice finely to little strips and then simply arrange next to the melon boats of the serving platter,
- Now you could also garnish with some rocket, or drizzle with some delicious Balsamic glaze (I have this raspberry one at home – wow!!!).
Ta Dah!!! Whack this bad boy in front of your audience on a lovely wooden platter, and you will be praised and coveted – ha ha. This is NECTAR!!! ENJOY!!!
Ham Melon AKA Prosciutto e Melone (when in Italy)
Prosciutto e Melone, often simply referred to as “melon and ham,” is a timeless Italian appetizer renowned for its harmonious blend of flavors. This classic dish combines the natural sweetness and juiciness of ripe cantaloupe or honeydew melon with the salty richness of thinly sliced prosciutto or Parma ham. The result is a culinary masterpiece that embodies the Italian appreciation for balancing contrasting tastes.
The origins of Prosciutto e Melone can be traced back to Northern Italy, where both prosciutto and melons are abundant. Historically, the practice of serving melon with ham emerged as a clever solution to balance the cool and juicy nature of melon. Wrapping the fruit in dry, salty ham not only enhanced the overall flavor but also made it a palate-pleasing treat. Over time, this delightful pairing has become a beloved classic, cherished both in Italy and around the world.
To prepare Prosciutto e Melone, one simply needs to slice ripe melon into bite-sized pieces and wrap them with delicate, paper-thin slices of prosciutto. The combination is often garnished with basil leaves or drizzled with balsamic glaze for an extra layer of flavor. Whether enjoyed as an appetizer, snack, or part of a larger Italian feast, Prosciutto e Melone remains a testament to the art of combining simplicity with sublime taste.
