Prosciutto, the beloved Italian cured ham, can transform ordinary dishes into extraordinary culinary experiences. This delicate, thinly sliced meat adds a perfect balance of saltiness and depth to countless recipes.
From pasta dishes to appetizers, prosciutto’s versatility makes it a favorite ingredient for both casual meals and elegant entertaining. Its rich flavor pairs beautifully with ingredients like melon, figs, asparagus, and various cheeses.
Whether wrapped around vegetables, crisped as a topping, or folded into pasta, these prosciutto recipes will help you make the most of this premium ingredient in your everyday cooking.
1. Prosciutto Pasta with Cream Sauce and Peas
This classic pasta dish combines the saltiness of prosciutto with sweet peas in a creamy sauce. It’s a comforting meal that feels fancy but is actually easy to make.
You can use fettuccine or tagliatelle for this recipe, as they hold up well with the creamy sauce. The dish typically features prosciutto cotto (cooked ham) rather than the dry-cured version.
For the best flavor, finish your pasta with a squeeze of lemon to cut through the richness. Some variations include adding a dollop of ricotta on top or incorporating pecorino cheese into the sauce.
2. Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus with Raspberry Sauce
This elegant appetizer combines the saltiness of prosciutto with fresh asparagus and a sweet-tangy sauce. You’ll need about 1/3 pound of thinly sliced prosciutto or deli ham and 16 fresh asparagus spears.
The raspberry sauce adds a surprising flavor contrast. Mix 1/2 cup seedless raspberry jam with 2 tablespoons of balsamic vinegar for a perfect sweet-tart balance.
Simply wrap each trimmed asparagus spear with a thin slice of prosciutto. The entire dish can be prepared in about 20 minutes, making it perfect for entertaining.
You can make this dish ahead of time if needed. Roasting the wrapped asparagus gives it a delicious finish that looks fancy but requires minimal effort.
3. Creamy Lemon Pappardelle with Crispy Prosciutto
This elegant pasta dish combines the richness of cream with bright lemon flavors. You start by crisping thin slices of prosciutto in a cold pan with just a touch of olive oil over medium-low heat.
The garlicky cream sauce is simple to prepare and pairs perfectly with wide pappardelle noodles. Trader Joe’s egg pappardelle works well, but any dried pappardelle (about 8 oz) will do.
Fresh lemon adds a zesty kick that balances the richness of the dish. The contrast between the silky sauce and crispy prosciutto creates a restaurant-quality meal that’s surprisingly easy to make at home.
4. Prosciutto and Snap Peas with Mint Pasta
This dish combines crispy prosciutto with fresh snap peas and mint for a perfect spring pasta. The recipe typically uses minced garlic, shallots, and olive oil as a flavor base.
You’ll need about 3/4 pound of sugar snap peas sliced at an angle and a small package of prosciutto. The cream sauce brings everything together with a rich texture that coats the pasta beautifully.
For extra flavor, add a squeeze of lemon to brighten the dish. The combination of salty prosciutto, sweet snap peas, and refreshing mint creates a balanced meal that’s both elegant and satisfying.
5. Prosciutto-Wrapped Scallops with Romesco
Prosciutto-wrapped scallops with romesco sauce offer an elegant dish that works as both an appetizer or main course. The recipe pairs tender sea scallops with thin slices of prosciutto.
To prepare this dish, simply wrap halved sea scallops with strips of prosciutto and sear them in olive oil. The salt from the prosciutto seasons the scallops perfectly.
The romesco sauce, a Spanish creation made from charred tomatoes, roasted red peppers, toasted almonds and bread, provides a flavorful base for the scallops. This vibrant sauce adds a nutty, sweet contrast to the savory prosciutto and seafood.
6. Hazelnut Green Beans with Prosciutto and Dates
This dish combines crunchy, chewy, and savory elements for a truly standout side. Crisp green beans form the base, while thin slices of prosciutto add a salty punch.
Sweet Medjool dates bring a natural sweetness that balances the savory components perfectly. The toasted hazelnuts contribute a delightful crunch and nutty flavor.
You can prepare this versatile dish for holiday gatherings or everyday meals. If you’re vegetarian, simply omit the prosciutto and enjoy the other flavors.
For a quick variation, try substituting sliced almonds for the hazelnuts. The dish still maintains its wonderful texture contrast with tender beans, crunchy nuts, and chewy dates.
7. Melon and Prosciutto Skewers
Melon and prosciutto skewers offer a perfect balance of sweet and salty flavors. This classic Italian appetizer requires minimal preparation and no cooking.
To make these skewers, use a melon baller to create small balls from cantaloupe or honeydew. Cut prosciutto slices in half lengthwise to create more portions.
Assembly is simple. Thread one melon ball onto a skewer, followed by a folded slice of prosciutto.
You can enhance these skewers by adding fresh mozzarella balls and basil leaves for extra flavor. These appetizers are ideal for summer gatherings.
They come together in minutes and provide an elegant, refreshing bite that guests will appreciate.
8. Chicken Saltimbocca with Prosciutto
Chicken Saltimbocca is a delicious Italian dish that combines thin chicken cutlets with prosciutto and sage leaves. The name “saltimbocca” means “jumps in the mouth,” referring to its bold flavors.
To make this dish, season chicken cutlets and top each with fresh sage leaves. Then wrap them with thin slices of prosciutto.
Cook the wrapped cutlets in a skillet with olive oil until golden brown. Many recipes finish the dish with a simple white wine butter sauce that complements the salty prosciutto perfectly.
This elegant meal comes together in just about 20 minutes. It’s perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.
9. Prosciutto and Arugula Pizza
Prosciutto and arugula pizza offers a perfect blend of flavors that’s both sophisticated and simple to prepare. You can make this weeknight-friendly meal in under 30 minutes.
Start with a pizza base topped with tomato sauce and mozzarella. After baking the pizza, add thin slices of salty prosciutto and a handful of peppery arugula.
For extra flavor, toss the arugula with a squeeze of lemon juice before adding it to the pizza. The combination of warm pizza with cool, fresh arugula creates a delightful contrast.
This recipe essentially gives you a pizza and salad in one dish. It serves 4-6 people and makes two 12-inch pizzas.
10. Prosciutto Tortellini with Parmesan
Prosciutto tortellini with Parmesan brings together Italy’s finest ingredients in one dish. Fresh tortellini and savory prosciutto create a perfect balance of flavors.
For this recipe, cook tortellini according to package directions. While that’s happening, melt butter in a skillet and cook garlic for a minute before adding sliced prosciutto.
You can make the dish creamy by adding heavy cream and shredded Parmesan cheese. Some recipes include peas for a pop of color and freshness.
This one-pot meal comes together quickly, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
11. Prosciutto-Wrapped Chicken Cutlets with Haricots Verts
This elegant dish is surprisingly simple to prepare. You start with chicken breast cutlets that get a layer of tangy Dijon mustard and fresh herbs.
Wrap the cutlets in thin slices of salty prosciutto, which helps seal in moisture while adding flavor. Four to five slices per cutlet works perfectly.
Haricots verts (French green beans) cook alongside the chicken for an easy one-pan meal. They provide a fresh contrast to the savory prosciutto and chicken.
You can have this impressive dinner ready in about 30 minutes. Add lemon wedges on the side for a bright finishing touch.
12. Creamy Spinach-Ricotta Crostini with Prosciutto
This easy appetizer combines creamy ricotta with bright green spinach for a delicious base that pairs perfectly with salty prosciutto. The contrast of textures makes it an impressive starter for any gathering.
To make this dish, toss ricotta, spinach, and seasonings in a food processor until smooth. Spread this mixture on toasted baguette slices, then top each piece with a small fold of prosciutto.
A finishing touch of lemon zest brightens the flavors. For a spicy twist, drizzle hot honey on top before serving.
This appetizer comes together in just 10 minutes, making it perfect for last-minute entertaining.
13. Parmesan and Crispy Prosciutto Tower
The Parmesan and Crispy Prosciutto Tower is an impressive appetizer that’s surprisingly easy to make. You can create this elegant dish using layers of crispy prosciutto, Parmesan cheese, and your choice of base.
For a traditional version, use puff pastry triangles sprinkled with black pepper, rosemary, and sage as the foundation. Alternatively, try salt and pepper potato chips for a more casual approach.
Start with your base, add crispy prosciutto pieces, then shave Parmesan curls on top using a vegetable peeler. Some versions include a Parmesan cream between layers for extra richness.
Finish with a sprinkle of lemon zest or fresh herbs for brightness and color.
14. Dressed Cara Cara Oranges with Prosciutto and Pistachios
This elegant appetizer combines sweet Cara Cara oranges with savory prosciutto for a perfect flavor contrast. The dish is simple to prepare yet looks impressive.
Carefully peel and thinly slice the oranges. Arrange them on a serving plate and top with ribbony slices of Prosciutto di Parma.
Sprinkle the dish with lightly crushed roasted, salted pistachios for a delightful crunch. Some versions include shaved Pecorino cheese for an extra layer of flavor.
This colorful recipe makes a beautiful starter for spring gatherings or a light lunch option. The bright citrus pairs wonderfully with the salty meat.
15. Penne alla Vodka with Crispy Prosciutto
Penne alla vodka with crispy prosciutto combines creamy tomato sauce with savory cured meat. This dish features al dente penne pasta tossed in a flavorful vodka-infused tomato cream sauce.
Start by crisping up prosciutto slices in olive oil until they become perfectly golden and fragrant. Set them aside while you prepare the sauce with shallots, garlic, crushed tomatoes, and vodka.
Once the sauce has simmered, stir in cream for richness. Toss the cooked penne in the sauce and top with the crispy prosciutto pieces.
The contrast between the creamy pasta and the salty, crispy prosciutto creates a perfect balance of flavors and textures.
16. Prosciutto Spaghetti with Creamy Cheese Sauce
This delicious pasta dish combines savory prosciutto with a rich, creamy cheese sauce. You can prepare this simple yet elegant meal in about 30 minutes.
Cook your spaghetti until al dente. Toss it in a sauce made from heavy cream, Parmesan, and a touch of pasta water.
The starchy water helps the sauce cling to each strand. Crisp up thin slices of prosciutto in a pan until they’re golden and slightly crunchy.
These add a perfect salty contrast to the creamy pasta. Add some sweet peas for color and freshness.
You can also include asparagus if you want more vegetables in your dish.
17. Tuscan Tortellini Salad with Prosciutto
This flavor-packed salad combines cheesy tortellini with savory prosciutto for a perfect meal. Cook tortellini according to package directions, then let it cool.
Mix in chopped prosciutto, baby spinach, fresh basil, red onion, and kalamata olives. Sun-dried tomatoes and artichoke hearts add bright Tuscan flavors to this dish.
Toss everything with a simple balsamic vinaigrette made with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and a touch of honey. This salad works great for holiday buffets or summer gatherings.
You can prepare it ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld together.
18. Strawberry Cobb Salad with Prosciutto
Strawberry Cobb Salad with prosciutto offers a delicious twist on the classic Cobb. This refreshing dish combines sweet strawberries with savory prosciutto for a perfect balance of flavors.
The salad typically includes feta cheese, roasted pistachios, hard-boiled eggs, avocado, and grilled chicken alongside the prosciutto and strawberries. These ingredients create interesting textures and tastes in every bite.
A balsamic lime vinaigrette pairs wonderfully with this salad, enhancing the strawberry flavor while complementing the salty prosciutto. You can prepare this versatile dish for a weekday lunch, weekend brunch, or as a crowd-pleasing potluck contribution.
19. Beef Wellington Wrapped with Prosciutto
Beef Wellington becomes even more elegant when you wrap the tenderloin in prosciutto before the final pastry coating. The prosciutto adds a salty richness and helps keep the meat moist during cooking.
Lay cold prosciutto slices in an overlapping rectangle large enough to fully wrap your seasoned and seared beef tenderloin. Spread mushroom duxelles on the prosciutto before placing the meat on top.
This technique creates a moisture barrier that prevents the pastry from becoming soggy. The prosciutto’s thin, delicate texture melts into the beef while cooking and enhances the overall flavor profile.
20. Prosciutto and Pistachio Crostini
This elegant appetizer combines creamy ricotta, savory prosciutto, and crunchy pistachios. It’s simple to make yet impressive to serve.
Start with toasted bread slices as your base. Spread each crostini with a layer of ricotta cheese.
Top with a piece of prosciutto and sprinkle with chopped pistachios. Some recipes add pomegranate seeds for color and sweetness.
Finish with a drizzle of honey or hot honey to balance the savory flavors. You can also add a touch of extra virgin olive oil and a sprinkle of grated Parmigiano-Reggiano for extra richness.
These crostini work perfectly for holiday gatherings or cocktail parties.
21. Herby Asparagus Salad with Beets and Prosciutto
This spring-inspired salad brings together crisp asparagus, earthy beets, and savory prosciutto for a delightful combination of flavors and textures.
Prepare a simple vinaigrette with lemon juice and white wine vinegar to dress the ingredients. Season your beets with a pinch of salt and a tablespoon of the vinaigrette in a small bowl.
Layer your asparagus on a plate and top with the dressed beets. Scatter fresh herbs over the vegetables, then add thin slices of prosciutto for a salty contrast.
This elegant dish works perfectly as a light lunch or dinner party starter. The colorful presentation makes it visually appealing and delicious.
Choosing and Storing Prosciutto
Getting the most from your prosciutto depends on selecting high-quality meat and storing it properly. These two factors greatly impact both flavor and how long the prosciutto remains fresh.
Selecting Quality Prosciutto
When buying prosciutto, look for slices with a bright pink to rose-colored meat and white fat marbling. The fat should be firm and not yellow, as yellowing indicates age.
Origin matters: Prosciutto di Parma from Italy is considered premium quality with a sweet, delicate flavor. Prosciutto from San Daniele is another excellent Italian option.
Always check the packaging date if buying pre-sliced prosciutto in vacuum packs. Freshly sliced prosciutto from a deli counter often has superior flavor and texture compared to pre-packaged options.
Choose paper-thin slices for wrapping around fruits or vegetables. Use slightly thicker cuts for sandwiches or pizzas.
Proper Storage Techniques
Unopened vacuum-sealed prosciutto can remain shelf-stable for up to two years in its original packaging. Once opened, proper storage becomes crucial.
Refrigeration guidelines:
- Wrap opened prosciutto in parchment paper first, then aluminum foil.
- Store in the coldest part of your refrigerator.
- Use within 5-7 days for best quality.
If you have more than you can use quickly, prosciutto freezes well:
- Separate slices with parchment paper.
- Wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then foil.
- Store in freezer-safe bags.
- Use within 2-3 months.
Let frozen prosciutto thaw slowly in the refrigerator. Never refreeze previously frozen prosciutto as this significantly degrades quality and can create food safety issues.
Pairing Prosciutto with Other Ingredients
Prosciutto’s delicate, salty flavor makes it an excellent partner for many foods. The right pairings can enhance its taste and create balanced, delicious combinations.
Best Cheeses for Pairing
Parmesan is prosciutto’s classic cheese companion. Its nutty, salty character complements prosciutto’s flavor profile perfectly.
Try shaving Parmesan over prosciutto-wrapped asparagus or adding both to pasta dishes. Fresh mozzarella offers a mild, creamy contrast to prosciutto’s saltiness.
Layer them together on pizza, in sandwiches, or on an antipasto platter. Creamy cheeses like mascarpone or ricotta spread on crostini and topped with prosciutto create a delightful texture contrast.
Strong Cheese Pairings:
- Gorgonzola or blue cheese (for bold flavor combinations)
- Aged provolone (for a more robust taste)
- Burrata (for ultimate creaminess)
Complementary Fruits and Vegetables
Cantaloupe is prosciutto’s most famous fruit pairing. The melon’s sweetness balances prosciutto’s saltiness perfectly.
Simply wrap thin slices around melon wedges for an easy appetizer.
Fresh figs pair wonderfully with prosciutto, especially when drizzled with honey. You can use this combination on pizzas, in salads, or as party appetizers.
Asparagus wrapped in prosciutto makes an elegant side dish. The vegetable’s earthy flavor complements the meat’s richness.
Other excellent produce pairings include:
- Arugula (peppery contrast in salads)
- Snap peas (fresh crunch with prosciutto and mint)
- Roasted red peppers (sweet, smoky complement)
Try wrapping green beans or carrots in prosciutto before roasting. This creates a delicious veggie side dish.
