Delicious and Simple Prosciutto Recipes for Any Occasion

Ingredients

12 thin slices of prosciutto
1 loaf of Italian bread
2 tablespoons of olive oil
2 cloves of garlic, minced
1/2 cup of fresh basil leaves
1/2 cup of sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
1 cup of mozzarella cheese, shredded
1/4 cup of parmesan cheese, grated
Salt and black pepper to taste

Steps and instructions

Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
Cut the Italian bread into 1-inch thick slices.
Brush each slice of bread on both sides with olive oil.
Arrange the bread slices on a baking sheet and bake for about 10 minutes or until the bread is crispy and golden brown.
Remove the bread from the oven and rub each slice with a clove of garlic.
Top each slice of bread with prosciutto, sun-dried tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, and basil leaves.
Sprinkle each slice with grated parmesan, salt, and black pepper.
Return the bread to the oven and bake for another 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Remove from the oven and let the bread cool for a few minutes before serving.

Tools for making

Baking sheet - Used to bake the prosciutto bruschetta in the oven.
Knife - To cut the Italian bread into slices and chop the sun-dried tomatoes.
Cutting board - To provide a surface for cutting the bread and tomatoes.
Brush - To brush olive oil onto the bread slices.
Grater - For grating the parmesan cheese.
Measuring spoons - To accurately measure the olive oil and minced garlic.
Oven - To preheat and bake the prosciutto bruschetta.
Serving platter - To present and serve the finished dish.

Recipe variations

Use a different type of bread, such as ciabatta or French baguette, for a variation in texture and flavor.
Replace the prosciutto with thinly sliced cooked chicken or turkey for a meat alternative.
Add sliced fresh tomatoes or roasted red peppers for an extra burst of flavor and freshness.
Swap the mozzarella cheese with goat cheese or feta cheese for a tangy twist.
Add a drizzle of balsamic glaze or honey on top for a touch of sweetness.
Sprinkle some chopped fresh herbs, like rosemary or thyme, for additional aroma and flavor.
For a vegetarian option, omit the prosciutto and add grilled vegetables, such as zucchini or eggplant.
Try different spreads like pesto or roasted garlic butter to enhance the flavors.
For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free bread or serve the toppings on gluten-free crackers or cucumber slices.
Experiment with different types of cheese like gorgonzola or fontina to create unique flavor profiles.

Recipe overview

This delicious Prosciutto Bruschetta recipe is a sophisticated twist on the classic Italian appetizer that will surely wow your guests. You'll be layering thin slices of salty prosciutto on crispy, garlic-infused toasted Italian bread, then topping it with a vibrant mix of sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil. A double dose of mozzarella and parmesan cheese is added before it all goes back to the oven until it's perfectly melted and bubbly. It's an easy-to-make, flavorful snack or starter that combines a variety of textures and tastes - crispy, creamy, salty and earthy. Perfect for any party, gathering, or even just a mid-day snack!

Common questions

Can I use a different type of bread? Yes, you can use any type of bread that you prefer. However, Italian bread is recommended for its crustiness and ability to hold the toppings well.
Can I substitute prosciutto with another type of cured meat? While prosciutto is the traditional choice, you can substitute it with other cured meats such as ham or even bacon if you prefer.
Can I use dried basil instead of fresh basil? Fresh basil leaves provide a vibrant flavor, but if you don't have access to fresh basil, you can use dried basil. Use about 1 tablespoon of dried basil as a substitute for 1/2 cup of fresh basil.
Can I use other types of cheese? Certainly! While mozzarella and parmesan are commonly used, you can experiment with other cheeses like fontina, gorgonzola, or goat cheese to add your own twist to the recipe.
Can I add other toppings? Absolutely! This recipe can be customized to your liking. You can add additional toppings like sliced olives, roasted red peppers, or even fresh arugula.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time? It is best to serve this recipe fresh and hot. However, you can prepare the ingredients in advance and assemble them just before baking to save time.
Can this recipe be made vegetarian? Yes, you can make a vegetarian version by omitting the prosciutto and adding more vegetables or using vegetarian-friendly substitutes like plant-based deli slices.

Serving dishes and utensils

Baking sheet - Used to bake the prosciutto-topped bread slices in the oven.
Chef's knife - Needed to slice the Italian bread and mince the garlic cloves.
Cutting board - Provides a surface for slicing ingredients and preparing the recipe.
Basting brush - Used to brush olive oil onto the bread slices.
Grater - Needed to grate the parmesan cheese for topping.
Oven - Essential for baking the prosciutto-topped bread slices.

Origin stories

Prosciutto, a type of dry-cured ham, has a deliciously rich history dating back to ancient Roman times. The word itself is derived from the Latin "perexsuctum," which means "dried thoroughly." In Italy, prosciutto is a testament to patience and tradition, as the process of dry-curing the ham can take anywhere from nine months to two years. Producers in the northern region of Italy, particularly in Parma, have been perfecting their curing techniques for generations. This art of preservation was initially born out of necessity, as residents of these mountainous areas needed to store food for the harsh winter months. Over time, this practical solution evolved into a culinary delicacy that is celebrated and savored all around the world.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.