Caprese Melon Salad with Prosciutto and Mozzarella Recipe

If you’re looking for a refreshing salad that sings with every bite, the Caprese Melon Salad with Prosciutto and Mozzarella is your new best friend. This delightful dish marries the sweetness of melons, the creamy richness of mozzarella, and the savory depth of prosciutto, topped with a light, tangy dressing. It’s a symphony of flavors that is as beautiful as it is tasty.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Burst of Freshness: The melons provide a juicy, sweet contrast to the savory prosciutto.
  • Perfect Balance: Each ingredient brings its own depth to the dish, creating a harmonious blend.
  • Quick and Easy: This salad comes together in merely 20 minutes, making it ideal for last-minute gatherings.
Caprese Melon Salad with Prosciutto and Mozzarella Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Caprese Melon Salad with Prosciutto and Mozzarella lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, providing essential flavors and textures that come together to create a refreshing and satisfying dish.

  • 1 small cantaloupe: Sweet and succulent, it balances the saltiness of the prosciutto.
  • 1 small honeydew melon: Offers a contrasting sweetness and a lovely green hue.
  • 1 cup ciliegine mozzarella: These little mozzarella balls are creamy and delightful, adding richness.
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil, rinsed and chopped: Provides aromatic freshness and complements the melons beautifully.
  • 3 ounces prosciutto, sliced: Adds a savory, salty depth that contrasts the sweetness of the fruit.
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved: Brings a burst of sweetness and color to the salad.
  • 1/4 cup pineapple vinegar (dressing): A tangy addition that marries all the flavors together.
  • 1/4 cup olive oil (dressing): Smooth and mild, it blends the dressing perfectly.
  • Fresh cracked pepper, to taste (dressing): Adds a peppery kick to the dressing.
  • Sea salt, to taste (dressing): Enhances the overall flavor of the salad.
Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully adaptable. Feel free to tailor it to suit your tastes or accommodate any dietary requirements. Here are a few simple variations that can keep this dish as versatile as it is delicious.

  • Vegetarian Version: Skip the prosciutto for a simple and elegant vegetarian salad.
  • Vegan Delight: Swap mozzarella for a plant-based alternative and ensure the prosciutto is replaced with slices of grilled tofu.
  • Balsamic Twist: Substitute the pineapple vinegar with balsamic for a richer, deeper flavor profile.

How to Make Caprese Melon Salad with Prosciutto and Mozzarella

Step 1: Prep the Melons

Start by halving your cantaloupe and honeydew. With a melon baller, scoop out those perfect, juicy spheres that are the heart of this salad. Not only does this enhance the aesthetic appeal, but it also ensures you get bursts of sweet flavor in every bite.

Step 2: Assemble the Ingredients

In a large salad bowl, combine your melon balls with the mozzarella, prosciutto, cherry tomatoes, and freshly chopped basil. This colorful mix is as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate.

Step 3: Prepare the Dressing

In a separate small bowl, whisk together the pineapple vinegar, olive oil, sea salt, and cracked pepper. This dressing lightly coats the salad, enhancing each flavor without overpowering the freshness.

Step 4: Combine and Chill

Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to ensure an even distribution. Then, pop it in the fridge for a short chill — just until you’re ready to serve. This helps the flavors meld beautifully.

Pro Tips for Making Caprese Melon Salad with Prosciutto and Mozzarella

  • Melon Mastery: Choose perfectly ripe melons by pressing on the stem ends; they should yield slightly but not be too soft.
  • Prosciutto Perfection: Lay the prosciutto on a flat surface before slicing to keep its delicate texture intact.
  • Dressing Drama: Adjust the dressing by playing with acid levels if using different vinegars for a unique twist each time.

How to Serve Caprese Melon Salad with Prosciutto and Mozzarella

Caprese Melon Salad with Prosciutto and Mozzarella Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

Top your salad with a few more fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of flaky sea salt for a touch of elegance and an extra burst of flavor. These garnishes elevate both the flavor and visual appeal.

Side Dishes

Pair this Caprese Melon Salad with grilled crusty bread or a simple pasta dish for a complete meal. The bread provides a crunchy contrast, while the pasta keeps it light yet fulfilling.

Creative Ways to Present

Use a large, white platter to arrange the salad, showcasing the vibrant colors. Consider layering the ingredients in clear, individual glasses for a stunning presentation that allows guests to admire every layer of flavors.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. While the salad holds up well, it’s best enjoyed fresh to maintain the vibrant textures.

Freezing

Freezing is not recommended for this salad. The fresh ingredients, particularly the melons and mozzarella, do not freeze well and may lose their texture and flavor.

Reheating

This salad is best served cold, so there’s no need to reheat. Enjoy it straight from the fridge for a cool, refreshing bite on a hot day.

FAQs

  1. Can I use different types of melon?

    Absolutely! Watermelon or any sweet melon varieties will work perfectly to suit your taste preferences or seasonal availability.

  2. What can I substitute for mozzarella?

    You can use feta or goat cheese for a tangy alternative, offering a different but equally delightful flavor profile.

  3. How can I make the salad more filling?

    Add some arugula or mixed greens as a base. They not only bulk up the salad but also add a peppery note that complements the sweetness of the melons.

  4. Is there a non-alcoholic substitute for the prosciutto?

    Yes, you can use thinly sliced roasted turkey or chicken breast for a lower sodium and non-alcoholic alternative.

Final Thoughts

Give this Caprese Melon Salad with Prosciutto and Mozzarella a try, and let it bring a splash of refreshing yet complex flavors to your table. This recipe is the epitome of how simple ingredients can deliver a big, delightful flavor punch. Enjoy!

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Caprese Melon Salad with Prosciutto and Mozzarella Recipe

Caprese Melon Salad with Prosciutto and Mozzarella Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.7 from 67 reviews
  • Author: Mia
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 3 servings
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: No-Cook
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean

Description

A refreshing and vibrant Caprese Melon Salad combining the sweetness of cantaloupe and honeydew with savory mozzarella, prosciutto, and fresh basil, all tossed in a tangy pineapple vinegar and olive oil dressing. Perfect for a light appetizer or summer side dish.


Ingredients

Units Scale

Melons

1 small cantaloupe 1 small honeydew melon

Cheese and Meats

1 cup ciliegine mozzarella 3 ounces prosciutto, sliced

Vegetables and Herbs

1/4 cup fresh basil, rinsed and chopped 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

Dressing

1/4 cup pineapple vinegar (or any vinegar) 1/4 cup olive oil Fresh cracked pepper, to taste Sea salt, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Melons: Use a melon baller to scoop out fleshy balls from the cantaloupe and honeydew. Set aside in a large salad bowl.
  2. Combine Salad Ingredients: Add the melon balls, mozzarella, prosciutto slices, cherry tomatoes, and chopped basil into the salad bowl. Gently toss to distribute evenly.
  3. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the pineapple vinegar, olive oil, cracked pepper, and sea salt until well combined. Adjust seasoning to taste.
  4. Dress the Salad: Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly. Chill until ready to serve.
  5. Serve: Keep the salad refrigerated and serve chilled for a refreshing appetizer.

Notes

  • Use a light touch when tossing to prevent the melon balls from breaking.
  • Feel free to add extra fresh basil or a splash of balsamic vinegar for extra flavor.
  • This salad is best enjoyed fresh but can be refrigerated for up to 2 hours.
  • If desired, substitute pineapple vinegar with apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bowl (approx. 200g)
  • Calories: 220
  • Sugar: 18g
  • Sodium: 400mg
  • Fat: 16g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 16g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 8g
  • Cholesterol: 25mg

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