8 Delicious Prosciutto Recipes You Need to Try Today

Prosciutto, the delectable Italian dry-cured ham, is a beloved ingredient known for its rich, savory flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a home cook looking to experiment, prosciutto offers a versatile ingredient that can elevate a variety of dishes. In this comprehensive guide of Myhealthonly, we’ll explore a range of prosciutto recipes that showcase its unique qualities, perfect for any occasion.

What is Prosciutto?

Prosciutto is an Italian cured ham that has been aged for up to 36 months. It is made from high-quality pork legs, seasoned with salt, and air-dried. There are two main types of prosciutto: Prosciutto di Parma, which comes from the Parma region and is known for its sweet flavor, and Prosciutto di San Daniele, which is slightly darker and has a stronger flavor. Both types are prized for their delicate, savory taste and tender texture.

Why Cook with Prosciutto?

Prosciutto adds a unique, savory flavor to a wide variety of dishes. Its versatility allows it to be used in appetizers, main courses, and even desserts. Here are some reasons to incorporate prosciutto into your cooking:

• Flavor: Prosciutto provides a rich, umami flavor that enhances other ingredients.
• Texture: Its delicate, melt-in-your-mouth texture contrasts beautifully with crunchy or creamy elements.
• Versatility: From appetizers to desserts, prosciutto can be used in numerous ways to create gourmet dishes.

Prosciutto Appetizers: Perfect Start to Any Meal

Prosciutto-Wrapped Melon

A classic Italian appetizer, prosciutto-wrapped melon combines the salty flavor of prosciutto with the sweet juiciness of melon. Here’s how to make it:

Ingredients:

• 1 ripe cantaloupe or honeydew melon
• 12 thin slices of prosciutto
• Fresh mint leaves (optional)
• Balsamic glaze (optional)

Instructions:

1. Cut the melon into bite-sized wedges.
2. Wrap each melon wedge with a slice of prosciutto.
3. Arrange on a platter and garnish with fresh mint leaves.
4. Drizzle with balsamic glaze if desired.

Prosciutto and Fig Crostini

This elegant appetizer pairs the sweetness of figs with the savory flavor of prosciutto, all atop a crispy crostini.

Ingredients:

• 1 baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch pieces
• Olive oil
• 8 fresh figs, quartered
• 12 slices of prosciutto, cut in half
• 1/2 cup goat cheese, softened
• Honey for drizzling
• Fresh thyme leaves

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Brush the baguette slices with olive oil and toast until golden brown.
3. Spread a thin layer of goat cheese on each crostini.
4. Top with a fig quarter and a piece of prosciutto.
5. Drizzle with honey and garnish with fresh thyme leaves.

Prosciutto in Main Courses: Elevate Your Dinner

Prosciutto-Wrapped Chicken Breasts

Prosciutto-wrapped chicken breasts are a simple yet elegant main course that’s sure to impress.

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 8 thin slices of prosciutto
• Fresh sage leaves
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
3. Place a sage leaf on each chicken breast and wrap with two slices of prosciutto.
4. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Sear the chicken breasts until the prosciutto is crispy, about 3 minutes per side.
6. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through.

Prosciutto and Asparagus Pasta

This pasta dish combines the earthy flavors of asparagus with the rich taste of prosciutto, creating a delightful, easy-to-make dinner.

Ingredients:

• 12 oz (340g) pasta of your choice
• 1 lb (450g) asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 8 slices prosciutto, torn into pieces
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil for garnish

Instructions:

1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant.
3. Add the asparagus and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the cooked pasta and prosciutto to the skillet. Toss to combine.
5. Remove from heat and stir in the Parmesan cheese.
6. Season with salt and pepper and garnish with fresh basil.

Prosciutto in Salads: Fresh and Flavorful

Arugula and Prosciutto Salad

This simple yet sophisticated salad pairs peppery arugula with the savory flavor of prosciutto.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups arugula
• 8 slices prosciutto, torn into pieces
• 1/4 cup shaved Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup pine nuts, toasted
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the arugula, prosciutto, Parmesan cheese, and pine nuts.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper.
3. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.

Prosciutto, Pear, and Blue Cheese Salad

This salad balances the sweetness of pears with the savory prosciutto and tangy blue cheese.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups mixed greens
• 2 ripe pears, thinly sliced
• 8 slices prosciutto, torn into pieces
• 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese
• 1/4 cup candied pecans
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, pears, prosciutto, blue cheese, and candied pecans.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper.
3. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.

Prosciutto in Desserts: Sweet and Savory

Prosciutto-Wrapped Dates

These sweet and savory bites are perfect as a dessert or an appetizer.

Ingredients:

• 24 dates, pitted
• 12 slices prosciutto, cut in half
• 24 almonds
• Honey for drizzling

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Stuff each date with an almond.
3. Wrap each date with a piece of prosciutto and secure with a toothpick.
4. Arrange the dates on a baking sheet and bake for 10-15 minutes, until the prosciutto is crispy.
5. Drizzle with honey before serving.

Prosciutto and Fig Gelato

For a truly unique dessert, try this prosciutto and fig gelato that blends savory and sweet flavors.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 3/4 cup sugar
• 4 egg yolks
• 1 cup fresh figs, pureed
• 6 slices prosciutto, finely chopped

Instructions:

1. In a saucepan, heat the milk and cream over medium heat until it begins to simmer.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk the sugar and egg yolks until pale and thick.
3. Slowly add the hot milk mixture to the egg yolks, whisking constantly.
4. Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over low heat until thickened, stirring constantly.
5. Remove from heat and stir in the fig puree and chopped prosciutto.
6. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator before churning in an ice cream maker according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Conclusion

Prosciutto is a versatile and flavorful ingredient that can enhance a wide range of dishes. From appetizers to desserts, its unique taste and texture make it a favorite in many kitchens. Try incorporating prosciutto into your next meal with these delicious recipes and experience the rich flavors of this Italian delicacy. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or preparing a simple family meal, prosciutto is sure to impress and delight your guests.