Melon and Serrano Ham

Serrano ham and melon is a classic Spanish combination. The salty richness of the ham is a great contrast for the cool, sweet melon. Use whatever salty cured pork you can find easily. Or use a firm, salty cheese, like manchego, in place of the ham. This dish could be as simple as chunks of melon served alongside thin slivers of ham or cheese. Make it fancier by pureeing the melon with olive oil and sherry vinegar to make a gazpacho, then garnish each bowl with strips of ham or cheese.

Ingredients

• 1 small, or ½ large melon, cut into pieces
• 2 teaspoons sherry vinegar
• 2 teaspoons olive oil
• 3-4 long slices of ham or cheese, cut into pieces

Directions

Toss melon with oil and vinegar. Serve on a plate beside the ham or cheese.

Submitted by Sara Jones, Tucson CSA