Prosciutto-Wrapped Caprese Salad Bites Recipe
Introduction
Prosciutto-Wrapped Caprese Salad Bites are a delightful twist on the classic Italian salad, combining fresh mozzarella, basil, and tomatoes wrapped in savory prosciutto. These bite-sized appetizers are perfect for entertaining or a light snack, offering a burst of flavor in every mouthful.
Ingredients
- 4 thin slices prosciutto (preferably imported), halved or quartered
- 8 large basil leaves, torn in half
- 8 small fresh mozzarella balls (Ciliegine), about 3.5 ounces (1-inch in diameter), halved
- 8 grape or cherry tomatoes, about 3 ounces, halved
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons aged balsamic (Condimento)
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
- Step 1: Slice the tomatoes in half lengthwise and season them with salt and pepper. Cut the mozzarella balls into pieces similar in size to the tomatoes and tear the basil leaves into pieces that will fit between the tomato and cheese. Quarter the prosciutto slices using a sharp knife.
- Step 2: Place a piece of basil on one end of each prosciutto slice. Top the basil with a piece of mozzarella and a tomato half, aligning the cut sides to form a ball. Carefully roll it up in the prosciutto.
- Step 3: Secure each bite with a toothpick and arrange them on a serving platter. Repeat the process with the remaining ingredients. Just before serving, drizzle generously with extra-virgin olive oil and aged balsamic.
Tips & Variations
- Use high-quality imported prosciutto for the best flavor and texture.
- Try substituting cherry tomatoes with colorful heirloom varieties for a vibrant presentation.
- For a spicy kick, add a small slice of fresh chili or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes inside the roll.
- If aged balsamic is unavailable, reduce regular balsamic vinegar in a saucepan until thickened to mimic the consistency.
Storage
These bites are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. To maintain the prosciutto’s texture, avoid adding the olive oil and balsamic until right before serving. Serve chilled or at room temperature for optimal flavor.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I prepare these bites ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the bites several hours in advance and refrigerate. Just add the olive oil and balsamic glaze right before serving to keep the prosciutto from becoming soggy.
What if I can’t find fresh mozzarella balls?
You can slice a larger fresh mozzarella ball into small pieces of similar size to cherry tomatoes. Drain any excess moisture to avoid soggy bites.
Print
Prosciutto-Wrapped Caprese Salad Bites Recipe
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 appetizer bites 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
These Prosciutto-Wrapped Caprese Salad Bites are a delightful and elegant appetizer combining the classic flavors of Italy. Featuring fresh mozzarella, sweet grape tomatoes, aromatic basil, and delicate prosciutto, all drizzled with rich extra-virgin olive oil and aged balsamic vinegar, these bite-sized treats are perfect for parties or light snacks.
Ingredients
Prosciutto Wrapping
- 4 thin slices prosciutto (preferably imported), halved or quartered
Salad Bites
- 8 large basil leaves, torn in half
- 8 small fresh mozzarella balls (Ciliegine), about 3.5 ounces, halved
- 8 grape or cherry tomatoes, about 3 ounces, halved
Seasoning & Dressing
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons aged balsamic vinegar (Condimento)
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Tomatoes and Season: Slice the grape or cherry tomatoes in half lengthwise. Season both sides with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to enhance their natural sweetness and flavor.
- Prepare the Cheese and Basil: Cut the fresh mozzarella balls into pieces similar in size to the tomato halves. Tear the basil leaves into manageable halves that will fit neatly between the tomato and mozzarella.
- Quarter the Prosciutto: Using a sharp knife, cut the prosciutto slices into quarters or halves, making pieces large enough to wrap around the assembled bite.
- Assemble the Bites: Place a piece of basil on one end of each prosciutto slice. On top of the basil, add a piece of mozzarella followed by a tomato half, matching the cut sides together to form a small caprese “ball.” Carefully roll the prosciutto around the bundle to encase the ingredients.
- Secure and Arrange: Use a toothpick to secure each prosciutto-wrapped caprese bite. Arrange the completed bites on a serving platter.
- Finish with Dressing: Drizzle the assembled bites generously with extra-virgin olive oil and aged balsamic vinegar right before serving to add richness and a tangy sweetness.
Notes
- Use good-quality imported prosciutto for the best flavor.
- Aged balsamic vinegar (Condimento) is thicker and sweeter than regular balsamic and is preferred for drizzling.
- To keep the bites fresh, assemble close to serving time and store covered in the refrigerator.
- This appetizer pairs beautifully with a crisp white wine or sparkling beverage.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian
Keywords: Prosciutto, Caprese, Appetizer, Mozzarella, Basil, Tomato, Italian, No-Cook
