Summer Melon Salad with Prosciutto & Mozzarella is the perfect light and refreshing dish for hot summer days. The juicy melons, salty prosciutto, and creamy mozzarella are complemented by a light lemon-honey dressing that brings the flavors together beautifully. Whether served as a starter or a side dish, this salad is sure to be a hit at your next barbecue or picnic.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Summer Melon Salad combines a variety of textures and flavors, making each bite a delightful experience. The sweetness of the galia melon and orange honeydew pairs wonderfully with the saltiness of prosciutto and the creaminess of mozzarella. The lemon-honey dressing adds a tangy sweetness that ties the dish together, while the fresh basil provides a burst of flavor. It’s a light, vibrant dish that’s perfect for summer gatherings.

Ingredient Highlights

Melons: The galia melon and orange honeydew bring a refreshing sweetness to the salad. Their juicy, aromatic flavors make them the perfect choice for this dish.
Mozzarella: Ciliegine mozzarella balls add a creamy and soft texture that contrasts beautifully with the melons and prosciutto.
Prosciutto: Prosciutto provides a salty, savory element that balances the sweetness of the melons.
Basil: Fresh basil leaves enhance the dish with a fragrant, aromatic flavor that complements the fruits and adds a pop of color.
Lemon-Honey Dressing: The lemon-honey dressing is simple yet flavorful, with lemon juice providing acidity and honey adding sweetness to the salad.

Pro Tips Before You Start

Choose ripe melons: Make sure your melons are ripe and sweet for the best flavor. You should be able to smell their fragrance and feel them slightly soft at the stem.
Use fresh mozzarella: Fresh mozzarella balls add a delightful creaminess that’s perfect for this salad. If you can, choose ciliegine mozzarella for small, bite-sized pieces.
Chill the salad: This salad is best served chilled. If you have time, refrigerate it for 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld together.
Customize the dressing: If you prefer a tangier dressing, feel free to add more lemon juice or a splash of white balsamic vinegar for extra acidity.

How to Make Summer Melon Salad with Prosciutto & Mozzarella

Step 1: Make the Vinaigrette

In a jar or small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, honey, and olive oil until the honey is fully dissolved.
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set the vinaigrette aside while you prepare the salad.

Step 2: Prepare the Salad

Using a melon baller, scoop out small balls from the galia melon and orange honeydew and place them in a large mixing bowl.
Add the mozzarella balls and half of the fresh basil leaves.
Drizzle the vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently until the fruit and mozzarella are fully coated.

Step 3: Assemble and Serve

Pour the salad onto a serving tray or large plate.
Tear the prosciutto into bite-sized pieces and scatter over the salad.
Sprinkle the remaining basil leaves on top for garnish and serve immediately.

Serving Ideas

This Summer Melon Salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, such as chicken, pork, or steak. It also makes a great side dish for a picnic or barbecue. You can serve it with some crusty bread or flatbreads to soak up the tangy vinaigrette. For a complete meal, serve it alongside a light protein like grilled shrimp or fish.

Storage

If you have leftovers, store the melon salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. The melons may release some juice over time, so it’s best to eat the salad within a day for the freshest taste. Avoid storing it with prosciutto if you plan to keep leftovers, as the prosciutto can become soggy.

FAQs

Can I make this salad in advance?
You can prepare the salad ingredients ahead of time and refrigerate them. However, it’s best to assemble the salad and drizzle with the dressing just before serving to keep it fresh.

Can I use a different type of melon?
Yes! You can substitute the galia melon and orange honeydew with other sweet melons like cantaloupe or watermelon for a slightly different flavor profile.

Final Thoughts

This Summer Melon Salad with Prosciutto and Mozzarella is a simple yet elegant dish that’s perfect for summer gatherings. The combination of fresh, juicy melons, creamy mozzarella, and salty prosciutto creates a delightful contrast of flavors and textures. Whether you’re looking for a refreshing side dish or a light main course, this salad will be a hit!