Prosciutto Crudo with Fresh Mozzarella

• •12 thin slices (approx. 4 oz / 115g) Prosciutto Crudo
• •8 oz (225g) ball, drained (buffalo mozzarella or fior di latte recommended) Fresh Mozzarella
• •2 tablespoons, plus more for drizzling Extra Virgin Olive Oil
• •To taste Freshly Ground Black Pepper
• •1 cup, for garnish (optional) Fresh Basil Leaves
• •Pinch (optional, to taste) Flaky Sea Salt

Instructions

1. 1

   Carefully unwrap and separate the slices of prosciutto crudo. If they are stuck together, gently peel them apart to avoid tearing.

2. 2

   Drain the fresh mozzarella ball thoroughly. You can gently pat it dry with a paper towel if desired to remove excess moisture.

3. 3

   For a rustic and appealing presentation, gently tear the mozzarella into irregular, bite-sized pieces. Alternatively, you can slice it into 1/4-inch thick rounds.

4. 4

   On a serving platter or individual plates, artfully arrange the slices of prosciutto crudo. You can gently fold or drape them to create volume and visual interest.

5. 5

   Distribute the torn or sliced fresh mozzarella pieces among the prosciutto.

6. 6

   Generously drizzle the entire platter with high-quality extra virgin olive oil.

7. 7

   Finish with a few grinds of fresh black pepper. If using, scatter fresh basil leaves over the top for an aromatic garnish. A tiny pinch of flaky sea salt can be added if you feel it needs it, but taste first as prosciutto is naturally quite salty.

8. 8

   Serve immediately as a delightful no-cook appetizer, perhaps with some crusty bread or grissini on the side.

Chef's Tips

• 💡**Ingredient Quality is Key**: Since this dish has so few ingredients, the quality of each is paramount. Invest in good quality prosciutto crudo and fresh mozzarella (preferably buffalo mozzarella or a high-quality fior di latte) for the best flavor.
• 💡**Serve at Room Temperature**: For the best flavor and texture, allow the mozzarella to come to room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before serving. This enhances its creaminess and allows its delicate flavors to shine.
• 💡**Drain Mozzarella Well**: Ensure your mozzarella is well-drained to prevent excess water from diluting the flavors on your plate.
• 💡**Don't Over-Salt**: Prosciutto is naturally salty, so be cautious if adding any additional salt. Taste the dish before deciding if a pinch of flaky sea salt is needed.
• 💡**Presentation Matters**: Arrange the prosciutto and mozzarella artfully. Draping the prosciutto can create appealing volume, and tearing the mozzarella offers a charming rustic texture.