Give the classic summer favorite a creative twist with these melon and ham skewers, an appetizer that combines hydration with bold flavor. By using techniques like dehydrating the ham to enhance its natural taste, we create a bite with high nutritional density, perfect for your summer gatherings.
⏱️ Time: 15 min prep + 5 min cooking
⭐ Difficulty:⭐⭐ Easy
🍽️ Servings: 4 portions
Quality Ingredients from Castelló
- ½ melon (Piel de Sapo or Cantaloup variety)
- 50g thinly sliced Iberian cured ham
- Bonsalt 0% (optional for a salty adjustment with 0% sodium)
- Skewers
Nutritional Analysis (per serving)
| Category | Nutrient | Amount | Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Macronutrients | Protein | 6.4 g | Muscle maintenance |
| Macronutrients | Healthy fats | 2.2 g | Heart health |
| Macronutrients | Carbohydrates | 35.4 g | Natural energy from fruit |
| Minerals | Potassium (Bonsalt/Cremor) | 585 mg | Ideal for fluid balance |
| Minerals | Sodium (Bonsalt 0%) | 0.7 g | Blood pressure control |
| Vitamins | Vitamin C and Folates | High | Antioxidant power |
| Energy | Calories | 160.1 kcal | Light and refreshing appetizer |
Step-by-step preparation
1. Preparing the ham powder
Place the ham slices between two paper towels on a plate and heat them in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes until they are very crisp. Once cooled and firm, grind the slices with a mortar and pestle or a food processor until you get a fine powder that concentrates all their aroma.
2. Extracting the fruit
Cut the melon in half and remove the seeds with a spoon. Use a melon baller to extract even spheres of flesh. If you don't have this tool, cut the melon into regular bite-sized cubes, making sure to make the most of the fruit.
3. Assembly and seasoning
Thread three melon balls onto each skewer. Just before serving, generously sprinkle the Iberian ham powder over the melon. This allows the ham to add its salty note and crispy texture without becoming soggy from prolonged contact with the fruit.
🔪 Chef's Secrets
- Natural flavor: Using dehydrated ham powder is an excellent way to replace regular salt; as the water is removed, the solutes and salty flavor become naturally concentrated without needing to add extra sodium.
- Maximum hydration: Melon is made up of 88% water by weight, making it the perfect ally for staying hydrated on hot days.
- Creative presentation: You can stick the finished skewers into the empty melon rind itself to bring them to the table in an original and eye-catching way.
A fun, different starter that your guests will enjoy bite by bite.
👇 Are you in? Do you prefer traditional melon, or are you brave enough to try this recipe with the Cantaloup variety?
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