Mozzarella, Prosciutto and Tomato Skewers: Super Easy!

The first time I tasted something similar to these skewers was at a tiny trattoria in Rome. Sunlight streamed through the open windows, the air thick with the scent of basil and roasting garlic. I remember the vibrant colors of the ingredients, the perfect balance of salty, sweet, and creamy, and the utter joy of sharing this simple pleasure with friends. These skewers transport me back to that sunny afternoon every time. The beautiful marriage of creamy mozzarella, salty prosciutto, and juicy tomatoes, all punctuated by fragrant basil, is a testament to the beauty of Italian cuisine: simplicity at its finest.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 10 minutes
• Servings: 8
• Yield: 16 skewers
• Dietary Type: Gluten-Free

Ingredients

• 16 wooden skewers
• 16 bocconcini (small mozzarella balls)
• 8-10 slices thin prosciutto di Parma, cut in half lengthwise
• 16 cherry tomatoes
• 16 (1 inch) bread cubes
• 8 slices shaved strips Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese (the good stuff!)
• 6 fresh basil leaves, cut into thin strips
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (the good stuff to drizzle to taste)

Equipment Needed

• Cutting board
• Knife
• Platter
• Small bowl (optional, for olive oil)

Instructions

1. Begin by preparing the prosciutto. Take each slice and cut it in half lengthwise. This will create strips that are easier to wrap around the bocconcini.

2. Wrap each mozzarella ball in a half slice of prosciutto. Ensure the mozzarella is completely covered; this helps to keep it moist and adds a wonderful salty flavor.

3. Now it’s time to assemble the skewers. Carefully thread each skewer with one mozzarella ball wrapped in prosciutto, followed by one cherry tomato, and one bread cube. Repeat this process until all the ingredients are used, ensuring each skewer has a balanced combination of flavors and textures.

4. Arrange the completed skewers artfully on a serving platter. Aim for a visually appealing presentation.

5. Drizzle the skewers generously with extra virgin olive oil. Don’t be shy – the olive oil adds richness and helps to meld the flavors together.

6. Finally, sprinkle the skewers with the shaved Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese and the fresh basil leaves, cut into thin strips. These finishing touches add a burst of flavor and color to the final product.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Upgrade your bread: Instead of plain bread cubes, consider using toasted ciabatta for a more rustic and flavorful element. Lightly brush the bread with olive oil and toast in the oven for a few minutes until golden brown.

• Marinate the mozzarella: Before assembling the skewers, marinate the bocconcini in a mixture of olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and herbs for an extra layer of flavor.

• Skewering Technique: When threading the ingredients onto the skewers, pierce the center of each item carefully to prevent them from splitting. For the prosciutto-wrapped mozzarella, try to pierce through the overlapping prosciutto to keep it secure.

• Parmigiano Perfection: Use a vegetable peeler to create thin, elegant shavings of Parmigiano-Reggiano. This allows the cheese to melt slightly when served, releasing its nutty aroma.

• Balsamic Glaze: For a touch of sweetness and tang, drizzle a small amount of balsamic glaze over the finished skewers. Use it sparingly, as a little goes a long way.

• Make-Ahead Marvel: You can assemble the skewers a few hours in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Just be sure to drizzle with olive oil and add the basil and cheese just before serving to prevent them from wilting or drying out.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

These Mozzarella, Prosciutto, and Tomato Skewers are best served immediately at room temperature to enjoy the freshness of the ingredients. Arrange them artfully on a platter and offer as an appetizer, snack, or a light side dish with grilled meats or salads.

If you have any leftovers (which is unlikely!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They are best consumed within 24 hours, as the prosciutto may become slightly sticky and the basil may wilt. Note that the texture of the bread may soften in the refrigerator, so it’s best to remove the bread cubes before storing and add fresh ones when serving leftovers.

These skewers are not suitable for freezing, as the texture of the mozzarella and tomatoes will be compromised upon thawing.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	291.2 kcal	N/A
Calories from Fat	202 g	69%
Total Fat	22.4 g	34%
Saturated Fat	11.7 g	58%
Cholesterol	67.2 mg	22%
Sodium	535 mg	22%
Total Carbohydrate	3.2 g	1%
Dietary Fiber	0.4 g	1%
Sugars	1.8 g	7%
Protein	19.2 g	38%

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

Variations & Substitutions

• Vegetarian Option: Replace the prosciutto with grilled halloumi cheese or marinated artichoke hearts for a delicious vegetarian alternative.

• Caprese Skewers: For a classic Caprese flavor, use fresh mozzarella slices and add a drizzle of balsamic glaze.

• Seasonal Twists: In the fall, add roasted butternut squash cubes to the skewers for a seasonal touch. In the summer, use fresh peaches or melon instead of tomatoes for a sweet and savory combination.

• Pesto Power: Replace the fresh basil with a dollop of pesto for a more intense basil flavor.

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the olive oil for a subtle heat.

• Gluten-Free: Simply omit the bread cubes or replace them with gluten-free croutons.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use regular mozzarella instead of bocconcini?
A: Yes, you can. Cut the regular mozzarella into bite-sized cubes. The bocconcini are just more convenient for skewering.

Q: How far in advance can I prepare these skewers?
A: You can assemble them a few hours in advance. Store them in the refrigerator, but add the olive oil, cheese, and basil just before serving.

Q: Can I use dried basil instead of fresh basil?
A: Fresh basil is highly recommended for its flavor and aroma. If you must use dried basil, use it sparingly.

Q: What kind of olive oil should I use?
A: Use a high-quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor. Look for one that is fruity and peppery.

Q: Can I grill these skewers?
A: While not traditionally grilled, you can lightly grill them for a smoky flavor. Be careful not to overcook the mozzarella.

Final Thoughts

These Mozzarella, Prosciutto, and Tomato Skewers are proof that simple ingredients, when combined with care, can create something truly extraordinary. I encourage you to gather these ingredients, invite some friends, and experience the joy of Italian flavors. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different variations and make this recipe your own. And please, share your creations and feedback! Buon appetito!