I have forever loved appetizers. Parties I’ve hosted have revolved around them and I’ve made them into full meals. Whether they are the foolproof ones in my regular rotation, a new creative concoction, or one tried from my collection of cookbooks, I love them all. My mood, the occasion, and of course the seasons are the inspiration behind each aperitif. They range from decadent to effortless and it was simplicity and seasonal freshness that were what today’s traditional Friday afternoon happy hour called for.

As soon as I saw Tuscan cantaloupe appear in the store, I immediately brought one home. Pairing the sweet melon with salty prosciutto is a perfect match. Adding the fresh mozzarella balls rounds it out and you can’t forget the basil for a pop of both color and sweet, peppery flavor. I finished them with a little extra sweetness from the balsamic glaze drizzled on top and voilà, this makes for a sublime summer appetizer to share with others. Casually at home, when hosting guests, or a contribution to a pot luck, these skewers are not only easy to assemble, but equally as simple to enjoy.

Ingredients:

• 1 Tuscan cantaloupe
• 4 slices of prosciutto, each cut into 3 pieces
• Mini fresh mozzarella balls (I buy mine from Trader Joe’s)
• Basil – small piece for each skewer
• Balsamic Glaze (I buy mine from Trader Joe’s)

Tools:

• Melon baller (optional)
• Mini Skewers

The amount of what you need will be determined by how many people you will be serving. I plan for 4-5 skewers per person. To each skewer, depending on the size of the melon baller and the size of the mozzarella balls (here I’m using mini ones), I start with 1 piece of melon, then 2 small mozzarella balls, a piece of basil, a piece of prosciutto, and end with another small ball of melon. Once plated, I drizzle balsamic glaze over the top. If you don’t have a melon baller, simply cut up small pieces of melon.