Prosciutto, a delicate Italian dry-cured ham, adds a salty and savory flavor to countless dishes. This versatile ingredient pairs beautifully with everything from pasta and pizza to fruits and vegetables.
Whether wrapped around asparagus, layered on a sandwich, or tossed with pasta, prosciutto elevates everyday meals to gourmet status.
You’ll discover that prosciutto works wonderfully in both hot and cold preparations, making it perfect for everything from quick appetizers to elegant main courses. Its thin slices can be enjoyed as is with melon or figs, crisped up as a garnish, or incorporated into creamy pasta dishes.
With the recipes we’ve gathered, you’ll find new ways to incorporate this delicious cured meat into your cooking repertoire.
1. Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus
Prosciutto-wrapped asparagus is a simple yet elegant appetizer you can prepare in just 20 minutes. The dish combines fresh asparagus spears with thin slices of prosciutto for a delicious savory treat.
To make this appetizer, spread some Neufchatel or goat cheese on prosciutto slices before wrapping them around trimmed asparagus spears. You can wrap each spear individually or bundle 2-3 spears together.
Roast the wrapped asparagus in a 450°F oven until crisp. For extra flavor, drizzle with olive oil and add grated garlic before roasting. Finish with a touch of balsamic glaze or fresh lemon for brightness.
This easy recipe makes your roasted asparagus look fancy with minimal effort!
2. Prosciutto Pasta with Peas and Mint
This quick pasta dish combines the saltiness of prosciutto with the sweetness of peas and freshness of mint. You can prepare it in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
Cook your favorite pasta until al dente, then toss it with sautéed prosciutto, fresh or frozen peas, and chopped mint leaves. The mint gives a bright taste that balances the rich flavors of the prosciutto.
For a creamy version, add a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of crème fraîche. Finish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a drizzle of olive oil.
This dish works well with linguine, fettuccine, or any pasta shape you prefer.
3. Grilled Prosciutto and Melon
Grilled prosciutto-wrapped melon creates a delicious contrast of sweet and salty flavors. This summer appetizer is ready in under 30 minutes with minimal effort.
To prepare, simply wrap cantaloupe or other melon wedges with thin slices of prosciutto. You can add a basil leaf between the melon and prosciutto for extra flavor.
Place the wrapped melon pieces directly on a medium-high heat grill. Cook until the prosciutto becomes crispy, which only takes a few turns on the grill.
Serve on a platter with arugula and, if desired, burrata cheese and pistachios. The heat enhances the melon’s sweetness while creating a crispy exterior.
4. Arugula Pizza with Prosciutto
Arugula and prosciutto pizza combines fresh peppery greens with savory Italian ham for a perfect flavor balance. This dish works as both a weeknight dinner and elegant appetizer.
To make this pizza, start with a base of tomato sauce and mozzarella cheese. After baking the pizza, add thin slices of prosciutto and fresh arugula tossed with lemon juice.
The contrast of warm pizza with cool, crisp arugula creates a delightful texture experience. You can prepare this in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings.
For an extra flavor boost, try adding shaved Parmesan cheese on top before serving.
5. Prosciutto-Wrapped Scallops
Prosciutto-wrapped scallops create an elegant dish that’s surprisingly simple to prepare. You need large, fresh scallops and thinly sliced prosciutto as your main ingredients.
The prosciutto adds a delicate crispness that perfectly complements the tender texture of the scallops. You can secure each wrapped scallop with a toothpick before cooking.
For extra flavor, drizzle with olive oil and add freshly ground black pepper. Some recipes include a balsamic glaze or serve the scallops with store-bought pesto for added dimension.
This dish pairs wonderfully with Chardonnay for a sophisticated meal that’s perfect for special occasions or an impressive dinner party appetizer.
6. Creamy Lemon Pappardelle with Crispy Prosciutto
This elegant pasta dish combines the rich texture of pappardelle with a bright lemon cream sauce. The star of this recipe is the crispy prosciutto, which starts in a cold pan with a touch of olive oil.
The sauce comes together quickly while your pasta cooks. You’ll need egg pappardelle (Trader Joe’s makes a good version), garlic, lemon, and a few pantry staples.
What makes this dish special is the contrast between the silky pasta and the crispy prosciutto garnish. The lemon adds a refreshing tang that cuts through the richness of the cream sauce.
You can have this impressive meal on the table in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.
7. Fig and Prosciutto Bruschetta
Fig and prosciutto bruschetta offers a perfect balance of sweet and salty flavors. This Italian appetizer features toasted baguette slices topped with creamy cheese, salty prosciutto, and sweet figs.
To make this delicious treat, start with sliced baguette that’s been lightly toasted. Spread each slice with a layer of soft cheese like triple crème or ricotta.
Add thinly sliced prosciutto on top of the cheese. Complete your bruschetta with fresh fig wedges or fig preserves. For extra flavor, drizzle with balsamic vinegar or honey.
This elegant appetizer works wonderfully for parties and gatherings. The combination of textures and flavors will impress your guests with minimal effort.
8. Dressed-Up Oranges with Prosciutto
Cara Cara oranges with prosciutto create a perfect blend of sweet and salty flavors. This elegant yet simple dish features thinly sliced oranges topped with ribbons of prosciutto.
The addition of crushed pistachios adds a pleasant crunch to contrast the soft textures. Some recipes also include shaved Pecorino cheese for a savory depth.
To make this dish, carefully peel and slice the oranges, then arrange the prosciutto on top. Sprinkle with crushed pistachios and add a light seasoning of salt and pepper. This makes an impressive appetizer or a refreshing side dish that’s both colorful and delicious.
9. Prosciutto-Wrapped Chicken Cutlets
Prosciutto-wrapped chicken cutlets combine tender chicken with savory cured ham for a dish that’s both elegant and simple to make.
Start with boneless chicken breasts and wrap each piece with 2 slices of prosciutto. The thin meat will crisp up during cooking while keeping the chicken moist.
For extra flavor, try stuffing the chicken with ingredients like goat cheese, ricotta, or sun-dried tomatoes before wrapping. Some recipes also add fresh herbs like sage to enhance the taste.
You can cook these versatile cutlets in an oven-proof skillet, first browning the prosciutto and then finishing in the oven. Serve with a fresh tomato salad for a complete meal.
10. Penne alla Vodka with Prosciutto
Penne alla vodka with prosciutto combines al dente pasta with a rich, creamy tomato sauce infused with vodka. The prosciutto adds a delicious salty element that elevates this classic dish.
To prepare this dish, start by frying chopped prosciutto in olive oil until crispy. Add minced garlic and fresh basil stems before deglazing with vodka.
Pour in tomato purée and simmer before adding cream to create that signature pink sauce. Toss with cooked penne pasta until well coated.
This simple yet elegant pasta dish makes for a perfect weeknight dinner that feels special. The flavors blend beautifully, with the prosciutto adding depth to every bite.
11. Ham and Cheese Slab Quiche
This quiche combines the best elements of a classic croque-monsieur with the convenience of a shareable dish. The mix of savory ham and melted cheese creates a perfect flavor combination.
You can use prosciutto instead of regular ham for a more upscale version. The addition of Dijon mustard gives it a slight tang that balances the richness of the cheese.
This recipe works well with store-bought pie crust to save time. For extra flavor, try adding green onions or sautéed leeks.
It’s ideal for brunch gatherings or meal prep, as you can easily slice it into portions. Each serving provides a satisfying meal at around 180-200 calories.
12. Fried Prosciutto Tortellini
Fried Prosciutto Tortellini offers a delicious twist on Italian street food. This dish combines the rich flavor of prosciutto-filled pasta with a crispy exterior.
To make this treat, coat store-bought prosciutto tortellini in flour, dip in beaten eggs, and roll in bread crumbs. Then fry them in olive oil until golden and crunchy outside while maintaining a gooey center.
Serve these crispy bites hot with a side of quality tomato sauce for dipping. You can also sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top for extra flavor.
For a complete meal, try adding frozen peas to the pan during cooking. This simple addition brings color and freshness to the dish.
13. Prosciutto and Pistachios Salad
This elegant salad combines crispy prosciutto with crunchy pistachios for a perfect balance of textures. The combination creates a refreshing dish that’s both simple and sophisticated.
Start with a bed of bitter greens like arugula or frisée. The slight bitterness works beautifully against the saltiness of the prosciutto.
Crisp up your prosciutto slices in a hot pan until they’re golden and crackly. Break them into pieces over your greens.
Scatter toasted pistachios across the salad for extra crunch. Dress everything with a creamy vinaigrette that ties the flavors together.
This salad works as a light lunch or an impressive starter for dinner guests. You can enhance it with seasonal additions like sweet cara cara oranges or fresh snap peas.
14. Creamy Spinach-Ricotta Crostini
This elegant appetizer combines fresh spinach with creamy ricotta for a delicious topping on crispy baguette slices. You can prepare it in just 15 minutes, making it perfect for last-minute entertaining.
To make the spread, pulse spinach, parsley, chives, and garlic in a food processor until finely chopped. Then add ricotta, goat cheese, and pecorino for a creamy texture with rich flavor.
Top your toasted baguette slices with the vibrant green mixture and add a slice of prosciutto for a savory finish. The combination of creamy spread and salty prosciutto creates a perfect balance of flavors.
For an extra touch, you can add a drizzle of olive oil or hot honey before serving.
15. Parmesan and Prosciutto Tower
This elegant snack combines layers of potato chips, crispy prosciutto, and parmesan cheese. It’s perfect for gatherings when you want to impress guests with minimal effort.
Start by baking thin slices of prosciutto until they become crispy. Then layer potato chips (salt and pepper flavored work best) with the crispy prosciutto.
Add a parmesan cream between layers, and sprinkle additional grated parmesan throughout. Finish with a touch of lemon zest to brighten the flavors.
This tower delivers incredible texture with the crunch of chips and prosciutto alongside the creamy parmesan. You can prepare it in about 45 minutes.
16. Prosciutto and Melon Salad
Prosciutto and melon salad brings together sweet and salty flavors in a refreshing dish. This classic pairing works as both an appetizer and a light meal.
To make this salad, start by cutting cantaloupe into 1-2 inch thick slices. Wrap each slice with thin prosciutto and arrange on a bed of arugula.
You can enhance your salad with additions like fresh mozzarella or feta cheese for creaminess. Fresh basil adds a wonderful aromatic element.
A light champagne vinaigrette ties everything together. For extra texture, consider adding toasted nuts like pine nuts or walnuts.
This simple salad is perfect for summer gatherings and takes just minutes to prepare.
17. Tomato and Mozzarella Bruschetta with Prosciutto
Bruschetta with prosciutto is a simple yet elegant party appetizer that will impress your guests. Start with good country bread, grilled to perfection.
Layer each toast with fresh tomato slices and torn pieces of mozzarella. Add a few slices of prosciutto on top for that perfect salty contrast.
Season with salt and pepper, then finish with a light drizzle of olive oil. The combination of savory prosciutto, creamy mozzarella, and juicy tomatoes creates a perfect balance of flavors.
This quick 10-minute appetizer pairs wonderfully with a glass of Pinot Noir. It’s ideal for gatherings where you want to serve something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.
18. Prosciutto and Cantaloupe
Prosciutto and cantaloupe is a classic Italian pairing that balances sweet and salty flavors perfectly. This simple appetizer requires just two ingredients and zero cooking time.
To make this dish, cut fresh cantaloupe into 1-2 inch slices or bite-sized pieces. Wrap each piece with a thin slice of prosciutto and arrange on a serving plate.
For extra flavor, drizzle with a small amount of reduced balsamic vinegar or extra virgin olive oil. Some versions add a sprinkle of flaky sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper.
You can also turn this into skewers for easy serving at parties or incorporate it into a salad with arugula for a more substantial dish.
19. Prosciutto and Arugula Salad
Prosciutto and arugula create a perfect flavor match that’s both simple and elegant. The peppery arugula provides a fresh base that balances the salty richness of the prosciutto.
You can enhance this classic combination with complementary ingredients. Try adding shaved Parmesan cheese and a simple balsamic vinaigrette for a traditional approach.
For more complex flavors, consider incorporating fruits like pears or honeydew melon for sweetness. Some recipes include fennel for a crisp texture or blue cheese for creamy tanginess.
Charred corn adds a smoky element that works wonderfully with crispy prosciutto. This versatile salad makes an impressive starter or light meal any time of year.
20. Minestrone Soup with Prosciutto
Minestrone soup with prosciutto is a hearty Italian classic that combines the saltiness of cured meat with the freshness of vegetables. The addition of prosciutto elevates the traditional vegetable soup to a more flavorful dish.
You can start by sautéing prosciutto with olive oil, adding onions and carrots until tender. Then add other vegetables, beans, and broth to create a rich soup base.
For a complete meal, include small pasta or rice. Remember to save some prosciutto to sprinkle on top before serving for an extra punch of flavor.
21. Prosciutto and Genoa Salami Sandwich
A prosciutto and Genoa salami sandwich combines two Italian cured meats into one delicious meal. This simple sandwich packs bold flavors with minimal effort.
Start with a fresh hoagie roll or Italian bread as your base. Spread about 2 tablespoons of mayonnaise on one side of the bread.
Layer 2-3 slices of prosciutto, followed by 4-6 slices of Genoa salami. Add provolone or mozzarella cheese if desired.
For extra flavor, include some banana peppers or roasted red peppers. A drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of oregano can elevate the taste even more.
This sandwich makes a quick lunch or easy dinner when paired with a simple side salad.
Understanding Prosciutto
Prosciutto is a versatile Italian cured meat that balances saltiness with subtle sweetness. This delicacy has evolved over centuries and comes in several distinct varieties, each with unique characteristics that make it special for different culinary applications.
What Is Prosciutto?
Prosciutto is an Italian dry-cured ham made from pork leg. Unlike cooked ham, prosciutto is salt-cured and air-dried for months or even years. This process concentrates its flavor and creates its signature silky texture.
The meat has a delicate, savory taste with a hint of sweetness and a buttery mouthfeel. When sliced properly, prosciutto should be paper-thin and have a rosy pink color with white fat marbling.
You’ll typically find prosciutto served uncooked (prosciutto crudo) as part of antipasto platters, wrapped around fruits, or incorporated into pasta dishes. The salt-curing process makes it safe to eat without cooking.
History and Origin
Prosciutto’s origins trace back to ancient Roman times when salt-curing was developed as a preservation method. Historical records show that by 100 BCE, the practice of curing pork legs was well-established in Italy.
The word “prosciutto” comes from the Latin word “perexsuctum,” meaning “thoroughly dried.” Early production centered around rural Italian families who would cure a single pig to provide meat throughout the year.
Different regions of Italy developed their own techniques. Parma became famous for its sweeter prosciutto, while San Daniele became known for its more intense flavor due to regional climate differences.
Today, traditional Italian prosciutto production follows strict regulations to maintain quality and authenticity established over centuries.
Types of Prosciutto
Prosciutto di Parma: Made in Parma, Italy, this DOP-protected variety is aged at least 12 months. It has a delicate flavor and sweet aftertaste due to the pigs’ diet including Parmigiano-Reggiano whey.
Prosciutto San Daniele: Produced in Friuli Venezia Giulia, this type is recognized by its guitar-like shape. It typically ages 13-16 months and has a sweeter, less salty profile than other varieties.
Prosciutto di Modena: Another DOP-protected variety that’s typically darker and more intensely flavored.
Prosciutto Toscano: Distinguished by its use of aromatic herbs in the curing process, giving it a more robust flavor profile.
You can also find domestic versions produced in America and other countries that follow similar techniques but often have shorter aging periods.
Cooking Techniques for Prosciutto
Prosciutto is versatile in the kitchen, offering delicious possibilities whether served raw or cooked. The paper-thin slices can transform dishes with minimal effort on your part.
Pairing Prosciutto with Ingredients
Prosciutto works beautifully with contrasting flavors. Sweet fruits like melon, figs, and pears balance the saltiness perfectly. Wrap cantaloupe wedges in prosciutto for a classic appetizer that takes seconds to prepare.
Cheeses that complement prosciutto include mozzarella, burrata, and parmesan. The creamy textures enhance prosciutto’s delicate texture. Try layering prosciutto with fresh mozzarella and basil for an elevated Caprese.
Vegetables like asparagus and arugula add freshness. Wrap blanched asparagus spears in prosciutto before quickly grilling for an impressive side dish.
For pasta dishes, prosciutto adds depth without overpowering. Add torn pieces to carbonara or toss with olive oil, parmesan, and peas for a simple but elegant meal.
Cooking Tips and Tricks
Crisping prosciutto transforms its texture completely. Place slices on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake at 375°F for 10-15 minutes until crisp. This makes a perfect topping for salads, pasta, or even as a garnish for soups.
When cooking with prosciutto, add it late in the process. Its delicate flavor can dissipate with prolonged cooking. For pizzas, add prosciutto in the final minutes or even after baking.
Store properly to maintain quality. Keep wrapped in butcher paper in your refrigerator’s meat drawer. Use within 2-3 days after opening for best flavor.
Remember that prosciutto is already salt-cured, so reduce salt in recipes where you’re adding it. This prevents dishes from becoming too salty.
