Crispy Prosciutto Crostini with Sweet Melon Salsa: A Gourmet Appetizer

There's something magical about a dish that perfectly balances sweet and savory, and this Crispy Prosciutto Crostini with Sweet Melon Salsa is the perfect example. It's a beautiful, elegant appetizer that looks incredibly impressive but is surprisingly easy to make. The combination of salty, crispy prosciutto, creamy cheese, and a refreshing, sweet melon salsa is a symphony of flavors and textures that will wow your guests.

This recipe takes a classic Italian pairing and gives it a modern, exciting twist. It's the ideal appetizer for a summer party, a holiday gathering, or a simple get-together with friends. It's fresh, light, and a perfect start to any meal.

Crispy Prosciutto Crostini with Sweet Melon Salsa

Yields: 12-16 crostini

Prep time: 15 minutes

Cook time: 10 minutes

Ingredients

  • 1 baguette, sliced into ½-inch rounds

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

  • 4-6 slices prosciutto

  • 4 oz goat cheese or ricotta cheese, softened

  • For the Sweet Melon Salsa:

    • 1 ½ cups cubed cantaloupe or honeydew melon

    • 2 tablespoons red onion, finely diced

    • 1 tablespoon fresh mint, finely chopped

    • 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice

    • A pinch of salt and black pepper

Instructions

1. Prepare the Crostini

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

  2. Brush with Oil: Arrange the baguette slices in a single layer on a baking sheet. Brush both sides of the slices with olive oil.

  3. Toast: Bake for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway, until the crostini are golden and crispy.

2. Crisp the Prosciutto

  1. Arrange Prosciutto: While the bread is toasting, lay the slices of prosciutto on a separate baking sheet.

  2. Bake: Bake for 5-8 minutes, or until the prosciutto is crispy. Be careful not to burn it.

  3. Crumble: Let the crispy prosciutto cool for a minute, then crumble it into small pieces.

3. Make the Sweet Melon Salsa

  1. Combine: In a small bowl, combine the cubed melon, finely diced red onion, chopped fresh mint, and lime juice. Stir gently to combine.

  2. Season: Season the salsa with a pinch of salt and pepper.

4. Assemble and Serve

  1. Spread Cheese: Spread a thin layer of softened goat cheese or ricotta on each toasted crostini.

  2. Top: Top each with a generous spoonful of the sweet melon salsa.

  3. Garnish: Sprinkle the crumbled crispy prosciutto over the salsa.

  4. Serve immediately.

Pro-Tips for a Perfect Crostini

  • The Right Bread: A good baguette is key. Slicing it into uniform rounds will ensure even toasting.

  • Salty & Sweet: The saltiness of the prosciutto and the sweetness of the melon are a classic pairing. Make sure your prosciutto is nice and crispy for a great texture.

  • Make-Ahead Tip: You can toast the crostini and make the melon salsa a few hours ahead of time. Store them in separate airtight containers. Assemble the crostini just before serving to prevent them from becoming soggy.

  • The Cheese: A creamy cheese like goat cheese or ricotta works best. Its texture and mild flavor are a perfect base for the toppings.

  • Garnish is Everything: The mint and red onion add a pop of color and a fresh flavor that elevates the dish. Don't skip them!