Easy Beef Prosciutto Wrapped Mozzarella Bites Recipe
Introduction
These Easy Beef Prosciutto Wrapped Mozzarella Bites are a delightful blend of creamy cheese, savory prosciutto, and fresh basil. Perfect as elegant appetizers or party snacks, they come together quickly with just a few simple ingredients.
Ingredients
- 4-6 ounces thinly sliced beef prosciutto
- Fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine), drained
- 20-25 medium-sized fresh basil leaves
- 10-15 cherry or grape tomatoes, halved (optional)
- Good quality olive oil, for drizzling
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Balsamic glaze, for drizzling
Instructions
- Step 1: Drain your fresh mozzarella balls thoroughly by spreading them out on a plate lined with a paper towel and gently patting dry.
- Step 2: Wash the fresh basil leaves and pat them completely dry. If using tomatoes, wash and halve them lengthwise.
- Step 3: Lay a slice of beef prosciutto flat on a clean surface. Place one drained mozzarella ball (or half a bocconcini) near one end.
- Step 4: Place a fresh basil leaf directly on top of the mozzarella ball.
- Step 5: If including tomatoes, place one halved cherry or grape tomato cut-side down against the mozzarella and basil.
- Step 6: Carefully but firmly roll the beef prosciutto around the mozzarella, basil, and tomato to form a bite-sized wrap.
- Step 7: For extra security, thread a small decorative toothpick or skewer through the center of each bite.
- Step 8: Arrange the assembled bites neatly on a serving platter as you finish each one.
- Step 9: Just before serving, drizzle good quality olive oil and balsamic glaze over the bites, then sprinkle with freshly ground black pepper.
Tips & Variations
- Use high-quality beef prosciutto for the best flavor and a tender texture.
- If you prefer, substitute fresh mozzarella balls with small cubes of mozzarella cheese.
- For added crunch, sprinkle toasted pine nuts or chopped walnuts before rolling.
- Try swapping the balsamic glaze for a honey glaze for a sweeter note.
Storage
Store any leftover bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. To serve again, allow them to come to room temperature for about 15 minutes. Avoid adding olive oil or balsamic glaze until just before serving to keep the prosciutto from becoming soggy.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make these bites ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the bites a few hours ahead and refrigerate them. However, add the olive oil, balsamic glaze, and black pepper just before serving to maintain freshness and texture.
What can I use instead of beef prosciutto?
If beef prosciutto is unavailable, you can substitute with thinly sliced regular prosciutto, Serrano ham, or even smoked turkey slices, keeping in mind the flavor will vary slightly.
PrintEasy Beef Prosciutto Wrapped Mozzarella Bites Recipe
These Easy Beef Prosciutto Wrapped Mozzarella Bites are a delightful appetizer combining creamy fresh mozzarella, aromatic basil, and savory beef prosciutto, optionally paired with juicy cherry tomatoes and finished with olive oil and balsamic glaze for an elegant and flavorful bite perfect for entertaining or a light snack.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 20–25 bites 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Low Salt
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4–6 ounces thinly sliced beef prosciutto
- Fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine), drained
- 20–25 medium-sized fresh basil leaves
- 10–15 cherry or grape tomatoes, halved (optional)
For Drizzling & Seasoning
- Good quality olive oil, for drizzling
- Balsamic glaze, for drizzling
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Drain Mozzarella: Drain the fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine) thoroughly by spreading them on a plate lined with paper towels and gently patting them dry to remove excess moisture.
- Prepare Basil and Tomatoes: Wash the fresh basil leaves and pat them completely dry. If using cherry or grape tomatoes, wash and halve them lengthwise for assembly.
- Lay Prosciutto: Lay a thin slice of beef prosciutto flat on a clean surface, preparing to assemble the bite-sized appetizer.
- Add Mozzarella: Place one drained mozzarella ball or half a bocconcini near one end of the prosciutto slice to start the wrapping process.
- Add Basil Leaf: Top the mozzarella with a fresh basil leaf, adding a burst of aromatic flavor.
- Add Tomato (Optional): If including tomatoes, place one halved cherry or grape tomato cut-side down next to the mozzarella and basil to add freshness and color.
- Roll and Secure: Carefully but firmly roll the beef prosciutto around the mozzarella, basil, and tomato to form a neat bite. For extra security, thread a small decorative toothpick or skewer through the center of each bite.
- Arrange Bites: As you finish assembling each bite, arrange them neatly on a serving platter, ready for serving.
- Finish and Serve: Just before serving, drizzle the bites with good quality olive oil and balsamic glaze, then lightly season with freshly ground black pepper for a perfect balance of flavor.
Notes
- Ensure mozzarella is well drained to prevent sogginess in the bites.
- Use fresh basil leaves that are not bruised for the best flavor and appearance.
- Balsamic glaze can be substituted with a reduction of balsamic vinegar if unavailable.
- These bites are best served fresh but can be prepared up to a few hours ahead and refrigerated, drizzling olive oil and glaze just before serving.
- Make sure to use thinly sliced beef prosciutto for easy rolling and delicate texture.
Keywords: beef prosciutto bites, mozzarella appetizers, basil wrapped mozzarella, easy Italian appetizer, no cook snack, prosciutto mozzarella basil
