Summertime Strawberry Antipasto

Summertime Strawberry Antipasto Recipe from Italy with Parmesan Cheese and Prosciutto

Region / culture: Italy | Servings: 6

Introduction

Summertime Strawberry Antipasto is a refreshing and colorful dish that is perfect for warm weather gatherings. This dish combines the sweetness of fresh strawberries with the savory flavors of ham and parmesan cheese, all drizzled with a tangy mint vinaigrette.

History

Antipasto is a traditional Italian appetizer that typically consists of a variety of cured meats, cheeses, and marinated vegetables. This summertime version of antipasto adds a fruity twist with the addition of fresh strawberries, cantaloupe, and grapes.

Ingredients

3 tbsp olive oil
3 tbsp water
3 tbsp red wine vinegar
2 tbsp chopped fresh mint, or 2 tsp dried mint, crumbled
2 tsp dijon-style mustard
2 tsp honey
1 clove garlic, minced
0.25 tsp salt
0.25 tsp pepper
1 pt (473 ml) basket fresh California strawberries
Half of a small cantaloupe, peeled, seeded and cut into thin wedges
1 cup red and/or green seedless grapes
2 nectarines and/or plums, pitted and cut into wedges
0.25 lb (113 g) asiago or parmesan cheese, cut into thin slices
0.25 lb (113 g) very thinly sliced prosciutto or ham

How to prepare

To make the vinaigrette, whisk together oil, water, vinegar, mint, mustard, honey, garlic, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
To serve the antipasto, divide the remaining ingredients equally and arrange them on individual serving plates (or on a platter).
Spoon the vinaigrette over the antipasto.
Serve immediately. Yield: 6 appetizer or 4 luncheon servings.

Variations

Try using different types of cheese, such as feta or goat cheese.
Add nuts, such as walnuts or almonds, for extra crunch.
Experiment with different fruits, such as peaches or kiwi.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to use ripe, sweet strawberries for the best flavor in this dish.

- Feel free to customize this recipe with your favorite fruits and cheeses.

- The mint vinaigrette can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until ready to use.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this antipasto as a light and refreshing appetizer or as a main course for a summer luncheon.

Cooking Techniques

The key to this recipe is in the preparation and presentation. Be sure to slice the fruits and cheeses thinly for an elegant look.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have red wine vinegar, you can substitute with balsamic vinegar or apple cider vinegar.

Make Ahead Tips

The vinaigrette can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Assemble the antipasto just before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Arrange the fruits, cheeses, and ham in a visually appealing pattern on a platter or individual plates. Drizzle the mint vinaigrette over the top for a finishing touch.

Pairing Recommendations

This dish pairs well with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover antipasto can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Serve cold or at room temperature.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Summertime Strawberry Antipasto contains approximately 350 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Summertime Strawberry Antipasto contains approximately 15 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Summertime Strawberry Antipasto contains approximately 18 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Summertime Strawberry Antipasto contains approximately 20 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is a good source of vitamin C, vitamin A, calcium, and iron.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (parmesan cheese) and pork (ham).

Summary

Summertime Strawberry Antipasto is a well-balanced dish that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, along with essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Summertime Strawberry Antipasto is a delightful and flavorful dish that is perfect for summer entertaining. With a mix of sweet and savory flavors, this dish is sure to be a hit at your next gathering.

How did I get this recipe?

I can't forget the first time I saw this recipe for Summertime Strawberry Antipasto. It was a warm day in July, and I was visiting my dear friend Maria for our weekly cooking exchange. Maria had a beautiful garden filled with ripe strawberries, and she suggested we make something special with them.

We gathered the ingredients and got to work in her cozy kitchen. Maria explained that this recipe was a family heirloom, passed down from her great-grandmother who was known for her delicious summertime dishes. As we mixed the strawberries with balsamic vinegar, honey, and fresh basil, the sweet aroma filled the room.

I watched in awe as Maria expertly arranged the strawberries on a platter, adding chunks of fresh mozzarella, prosciutto, and toasted almonds. The colors and textures were a feast for the eyes, and I couldn't wait to taste the finished dish.

As we sat down to enjoy our creation, Maria shared stories of her great-grandmother and the traditions she upheld in her kitchen. She talked about how recipes were not just about the ingredients, but about the memories and love that went into each dish. I felt inspired by her words, and I knew that this recipe would become a cherished part of my own cooking repertoire.

After that day, I made Summertime Strawberry Antipasto for every family gathering and potluck. The dish was always a hit, with its perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors. I loved sharing the recipe with friends and watching their faces light up as they took their first bite.

Over the years, I added my own twist to the recipe, experimenting with different cheeses and herbs to make it my own. I even entered it in a local cooking competition and won first place, much to the delight of my family and friends.

As I reflect on that day in Maria's kitchen, I realize that cooking is more than just following a recipe. It's about connecting with the past, creating memories, and sharing love with those around you. I am grateful for the lessons I learned that day and for the gift of this delicious Summertime Strawberry Antipasto recipe.

Now, whenever I make this dish, I think of Maria and her great-grandmother, and I feel their presence in my kitchen. The sweet strawberries, tangy balsamic, and creamy mozzarella remind me of the joy of cooking and the importance of tradition.

I hope that one day, my grandchildren will learn this recipe from me and pass it down to future generations. I know that it will bring them as much happiness and connection as it has brought me.

As I sit down to enjoy a plate of Summertime Strawberry Antipasto, I am filled with gratitude for the gift of cooking and the memories that come with each delicious bite. Cooking is not just a skill, but a way to honor the past and create a legacy for the future. And for that, I am forever thankful.