Fresh Prosciutto-Wrapped Melon Balls
A simple yet elegant appetizer combining sweet melon balls wrapped in thin slices of salty prosciutto, perfect for quick assembly and impressive presentation.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15-20 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 melon balls (serves 8, 3 pieces per serving) 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired
Ingredients
- 1 medium-sized ripe cantaloupe or honeydew melon, chilled and scooped into balls
- 8–10 thin slices prosciutto (about 3 ounces / 85 grams)
- Fresh basil leaves (optional)
- Extra virgin olive oil (optional, for drizzle)
- Freshly ground black pepper (optional)
Instructions
- Cut the melon in half and scoop out the seeds with a spoon.
- Using a melon baller, scoop balls about 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter. Transfer melon balls to a chilled bowl and refrigerate for 10 minutes to firm up.
- Lay prosciutto slices flat on a cutting board. If slices are long, cut into halves or thirds for easier wrapping.
- Take a chilled melon ball and gently wrap a slice of prosciutto around it, securing with a toothpick if needed.
- If using basil, tuck a small leaf between the melon and prosciutto before wrapping.
- Optionally drizzle with extra virgin olive oil and sprinkle with freshly ground black pepper.
- Place wrapped melon balls on a serving tray and chill for 15-20 minutes before serving.
- Arrange attractively on a platter and garnish with extra basil or mint if desired.
Notes
Keep melon balls and prosciutto chilled separately until assembly to maintain freshness and texture. Wrap melon balls with prosciutto just before serving to avoid sogginess. If prosciutto tears easily, let it rest at room temperature for a few minutes before wrapping. Use ripe melons for best sweetness and aroma. Optional additions include fresh basil, a drizzle of olive oil, or freshly ground black pepper. Variations include swapping melon types or adding cheese like mozzarella or burrata inside the wrap.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3 prosciutto-wrapped
- Calories: 90
- Fat: 5
- Carbohydrates: 6
- Fiber: 0.5
- Protein: 6
Keywords: prosciutto, melon balls, appetizer, easy, elegant, finger food, summer, party food, quick recipe, no-cook