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Flavorful Prosciutto Wrapped Melon Recipe with Easy Balsamic Reduction

prosciutto wrapped melon - featured image

A quick and elegant appetizer combining sweet melon wrapped in salty prosciutto, finished with a rich balsamic reduction drizzle for a perfect balance of flavors.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 ripe cantaloupe (about 3 lbs / 1.4 kg), peeled, seeded, and cut into bite-sized wedges or cubes
  • Thinly sliced prosciutto (about 0.5 oz / 15 g per melon piece)
  • 1 cup (240 ml) balsamic vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons (30 g) honey or brown sugar
  • Fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced (optional)
  • Black pepper, to taste (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the balsamic reduction: Pour 1 cup (240 ml) of balsamic vinegar into a small saucepan. Add 2 tablespoons (30 g) of honey or brown sugar. Place over medium heat and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir occasionally and let it reduce until it thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 10-15 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
  2. Slice the melon: Cut the ripe cantaloupe in half. Remove seeds and peel. Cut into bite-sized wedges or cubes, about 1 to 1.5 inches (2.5-4 cm).
  3. Wrap the melon: Take one slice of prosciutto and wrap it snugly around each melon piece, fully encasing or covering most of the surface.
  4. Arrange on platter: Lay the wrapped melon pieces on a serving dish, spacing them evenly.
  5. Drizzle the balsamic reduction: Use a spoon or squeeze bottle to drizzle the cooled balsamic reduction over the wrapped melon pieces.
  6. Garnish (optional): Sprinkle thinly sliced fresh basil leaves and a grind of black pepper over the top.
  7. Serve immediately while the melon is cool and juicy and the prosciutto is soft.

Notes

Make the balsamic reduction and slice melon up to 24 hours ahead; wrap melon with prosciutto just before serving to avoid sogginess. Use thinly sliced prosciutto for easier wrapping. Avoid drizzling too much balsamic reduction to keep melon flavor balanced.

Nutrition

Keywords: prosciutto wrapped melon, balsamic reduction, appetizer, easy recipe, summer snack, party food, sweet and salty, quick appetizer