Before dinner begins, it’s always nice to have something to offer guests with cocktails. And while I am perfectly happy to make all kinds of hors d’oeuvres for a cocktail party, when I am preparing a full meal, it’s best to relegate myself to those appetizers that only require assembling. Luckily, in the kitchen, sometimes it is the simplest things that wind up being the most delicious. Perfectly ripe pears, aged Stilton, and Port wine, for example, is an amazing flavor combination, that requires no cooking whatsoever. Here, too, in a classic combination, wedges of farm fresh CSA cantaloupe are wrapped in slices of prosciutto di Parma. The sweet melon and salty ham are made for one another.It is perfectly delicious, and elegant in its simplicity.
I begin by slicing both ends off of the melon (I used a cantaloupe, but honeydew, casaba, or galia would work equally well). I then stand it up on the cutting board, and, with a sharp knife, follow the contours of the melon down and around, removing the rind completely. I then cut the melon in half, and scoop out the seeds with a spoon. I chose to slice the melon into wedges, but you could also easily ball it, cube it, or do half slices depending on which presentation you find most appealing. I then take paper thin slices of prosciutto, and wrap them around the center of each of the wedges. A sprinkling of sea salt (fleur de sel, if you have it) and freshly ground black pepper, is all that you need to finish it all off. Simple, fast, and satisfying.
Whether as an appetizer, first course, or light lunch, melon and prosciutto is a delicious combination that you will come back to time and time again. Enjoy!
This post made the Foodbuzz.com Top 9!!!
Jacob's Kitchen 
Simple and elegant. I serve as you do, but on mine a squeeze of lemon.
Spanish classic!
Gorgeous colors!
One of the most classic and delicious appetizers!
Hi Jacob,
Looks amazing…
Dr.Sameena@
http://www.myeasytocookrecipes.blogspot.com
I love simple, no-cook, just assemple appetizers. Thanks for sharing your recipe.
I am always amazed that the simplest things are always the most beautiful and delicious. I love this classic combination of flavors. Lovely pictures (as usual).
I love the combination of sweet & salty, dry and juicy. It’s like the perfect world.
You have a wonderful site here. I love the pictures.
Melon and Prosciutto is a wonderful combination. It’s something that can be served and well enjoyed by everyone.
This a simple yet addictive appetizer. I swear I can never get enough of it.
Ah yes, this is one of my favorites as well.
Well done!
Love the pictures. I love proscuitto and melon reminds me of my little italian grandma. Thanks for sharing.
Who would’ve thought!?
your blog leaves me in awe….one man with a born talent….all the stuff in here luks sooo delicious tat i cant stop looking all over… cheers!
The very first time I experienced prosciutto and melon is when I was visiting in Anchorage, Alaska. My brother introduced it to me. I could not believe what was going on in my mouth. The mixed flavors were amazing….
When I introduced to friends in Ohio they had never even heard of it. Ha, they got to experience what I did while in Alaska.
Something so simple can cause an amazing delight.
AWESOME!!
This is one of my favorite appetizers, I just love the contrast in flavors, salty and sweet, refreshing and against a savory aged meat.
Brilliant color! Great photos! This is my favorite!
I’m going to be making this soon. Mostly because your photos look so delicious – definitely top 9 worthy!
Beautiful and well executed photography. Congrats for making the top 9.
This is a classic combo I never tire of. Great shot, as usual!