Refreshing Appetizer: Prosciutto w/ Melon & Mozzarella

This appetizer is reserved for the hot summer months only.

Who doesn't love good Prosciutto di Parma with melon?

The basil shallot dressing adds a little pizazz and color to the fresh mozzarella.

Try these at your next outdoor party and watch them disappear! (I sound like a commercial).



Prosciutto, Melon & Mozzarella Skewers: (adapted from Epicurious)

1/2 cup olive oil
1/3 cup (packed) fresh basil leaves plus sprigs for garnish
1 medium shallot, quartered

1 small (about 2-pound) cantaloupe, halved crosswise, seeded, cut into cubes (I bought my melon already cut up)
fresh water-packed mozzarella balls
thin slices of good prosciutto, cut in half lengthwise, gathered into ruffle
6 8-inch wooden skewers

Make the dressing in a food processor, by pulsing the basil and shallot together and adding the olive oil thru the feed tube. Can be made ahead.



Thread your wooden skewers with a melon cube, ruffle of prosciutto and ending with a mozzarella ball.

Arrange them decoratively on a platter and drizzle dressing over just before serving.



Enjoy!