Prosciutto Melon Fig Summer Bites

Ingredients

Estimated total cost: €17.47 · €2.91/serving

• 12 mint leavesEst. price €0.12–€0.30
• 3/4 cup heavy creamEst. price €0.60–€1.20
• 1 teaspoon lemon juiceEst. price €0.03–€0.08
• 1 ripe melon, about 2 poundsEst. price €2.50–€4.50
• 16 ripe fresh figsEst. price €4.80–€8.00
• 12 thin slices prosciutto di ParmaEst. price €9.00–€15.00
• 20 very pretty arugula leaves, cleanedEst. price €0.40–€0.80
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepperEst. price €0.02–€0.05

Steps

1. 1

   Begin by crushing six mint leaves into a smooth paste using a mortar and pestle. If your mortar is spacious, mix in the cream while ensuring to scrape the edges and base of the mortar using a rubber spatula for complete integration. Alternatively, transfer the paste to a bowl if necessary. Stir in the lemon juice, then season with a generous 1/4 teaspoon of salt and a pinch or two of pepper. Taste the mixture to ensure it is well-balanced and seasoned appropriately.

2. 2

   Begin by slicing the melon lengthwise, discarding the seeds, and cutting it into 1-inch wedges after removing the peel. Divide half of the figs into halves and the rest into quarters while keeping some stems intact. Finally, thinly slice six mint leaves to complete the preparation process.

3. 3

   Randomly position six melon wedges on a large platter. Gently place six slices of prosciutto over and around the melon, ensuring some of the melon is still visible. Next, artfully arrange half of the figs and arugula around the melon and prosciutto, tucking some beneath the prosciutto slices. Repeat this arrangement with the remaining melon, prosciutto, figs, and arugula to create a visually appealing display.

Full steps, exact amounts, and Cook Mode are available after sign-in.

• Cultural note

  Prosciutto Melon Fig Summer Bites are inspired by Italian cuisine, combining the salty flavor of prosciutto di Parma with the sweetness of ripe melon and fresh figs. This dish showcases the Italian tradition of balancing sweet and savory flavors in a simple yet elegant appetizer.

• Seasonal note

  Prosciutto Melon Fig Summer Bites are best enjoyed in the summer when melons and fresh figs are in season, providing the freshest and most flavorful ingredients for this dish.

• Health note

  These bites are a good source of vitamins A, C, and K, important for immune function, skin health, and blood clotting. They are relatively low in calories and provide a balance of protein, carbohydrates, and fats. However, the high sodium content may be a concern for individuals watching their salt intake.