A Fresh Spanish Summer Tapa
Fresh, elegant, and unexpectedly addictive, this Melon and Serrano Ham Tartar perfectly balances sweet and savory flavors.
Juicy melon pairs beautifully with thinly sliced Serrano ham. Extra virgin olive oil and fresh herbs add brightness, creating a light yet flavorful Spanish tapa.
This recipe feels special but takes only minutes to prepare. It’s perfect for warm days, effortless entertaining, or as a refreshing addition to any tapas spread.
Ingredients
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2 cups melon (cantaloupe, honeydew, or a mix), finely diced
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2 oz Serrano ham by Monte Nevado, finely chopped or thinly sliced
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2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil Diosas de Abril, plus more for drizzling
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Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
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Fresh herbs (mint or basil recommended), finely chopped
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Pistachios like our Orange Pistachios by La Rosala (optional), lightly crushed for garnish
Preparation
- Dice the melon into small, even cubes and place it in a bowl. If it’s very juicy, gently pat dry to remove excess moisture.
- Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil and season lightly with freshly ground black pepper.
- Add the fresh herbs and fold gently until just combined. Be careful not to break the melon.
- Shape the tartar using a ring mold. For a more natural presentation, spoon it directly onto the plate.
- Arrange the Serrano ham on top of the melon tartar.
- Finish with an extra drizzle of olive oil. Garnish with herbs or crushed pistachios if desired.
Serving Suggestions
This melon and Serrano ham tartar is light, refreshing, and highly versatile:
- Serve with toasted bread or thin crackers
- Pair with a fresh green salad for a summer starter
- Add it to a cheese and charcuterie board
- Enjoy with cava, rosé, or a crisp white wine
Tip: Chill the melon slightly before assembling. This helps create cleaner cuts and even fresher flavor.
