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
Scale
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
