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Italian Sushi is an easy-to-make, no-cook appetizer that combines fresh Italian ingredients into a delicious, hand-rolled finger food. Prosciutto, burrata, sun-dried tomatoes, arugula, and basil come together in this savory dish, offering a taste of Italy in every bite. It’s perfect for a dinner party or casual gathering, and can be made ahead of time for convenience.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

7 slices prosciutto
5-7 slices Italian salami
3-4 fresh basil leaves
1-2 cups arugula or spinach
1 ball of burrata
1/3 cup sun-dried tomatoes
Kosher salt, black pepper, and oregano to taste
Extra virgin olive oil to taste
Balsamic glaze to taste

Directions

Line a cutting board with parchment paper and lay the slices of prosciutto parallel to each other, ensuring the edges overlap. Do the same with the salami.
Add basil leaves across the center of the prosciutto. Top with arugula, then arrange sun-dried tomatoes. Tear the burrata and spread it evenly on top.
Season with salt, pepper, and oregano. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar.
Starting at the long edge, roll the prosciutto and salami tightly over the filling, creating a long roll. Cut into 6-8 even pieces and serve with extra balsamic glaze.

Nutrients (per 2 rolls)

Calories: 130 kcal
Carbohydrates: 6g
Protein: 6g
Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0.02g
Cholesterol: 18mg
Sodium: 358mg
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 4g
Vitamin A: 222 IU
Vitamin C: 4mg
Calcium: 22mg
Iron: 1mg

This nutritional breakdown is an approximation and can vary based on ingredient choices.

Why Choose Italian Sushi for Your Next Gathering?

There are many reasons why Italian Sushi is an excellent option for your next event. First, it’s an incredibly versatile dish. You can serve it as a standalone appetizer, pair it with a salad, or serve it alongside other finger foods. Its compact size and ease of eating make it perfect for parties or casual dinners, where guests prefer bite-sized, no-fuss foods.

Moreover, Italian Sushi incorporates fresh ingredients that everyone can enjoy, whether they are meat lovers or vegetarians (by removing the meat). It’s also a great dish for those looking to eat light but flavorful, as it combines fresh veggies, high-quality cheeses, and savory meats. The flexibility of this dish allows you to adjust the ingredients based on what you have available or your guests’ preferences.

The Key Ingredients of Italian Sushi

Italian Sushi comes together through the use of some classic Italian ingredients that offer a balance of flavors and textures. Let’s break down the key components:

Prosciutto and Salami: These two Italian deli meats serve as the base for the rolls. The prosciutto adds a salty, delicate flavor, while the salami introduces a savory and slightly spicy contrast. Together, they create a perfect savory balance that complements the freshness of the vegetables and the richness of the cheese.
Burrata: This creamy Italian cheese is a key feature of Italian Sushi. Burrata has a soft, almost liquid center, which adds a rich and smooth texture to the roll. When combined with the other ingredients, it enhances the overall flavor and provides a satisfying creaminess.
Arugula and Basil: These fresh herbs bring a peppery and slightly tangy flavor to the rolls, balancing the richness of the meat and cheese. The combination of arugula and basil also adds a touch of freshness and color, making the rolls visually appealing.
Sun-dried Tomatoes: Sun-dried tomatoes add an intense, sweet, and tangy flavor that contrasts beautifully with the salty prosciutto and the creamy burrata. Their chewy texture and concentrated flavor elevate the dish and provide a burst of umami.
Olive Oil and Balsamic Glaze: A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil provides a smooth, fruity undertone, while balsamic glaze adds a touch of acidity and sweetness. These finishing touches tie everything together and enhance the overall flavor profile of the dish.

How to Assemble Italian Sushi: Step-by-Step Guide

Assembling Italian Sushi is straightforward and doesn’t require any cooking skills. Here’s how to put it all together:

Prepare Your Ingredients: Begin by laying out your ingredients—prosciutto, salami, basil, arugula, sun-dried tomatoes, and burrata. Having everything prepped and ready will make assembly much easier.
Arrange the Prosciutto and Salami: Lay the slices of prosciutto on a cutting board, slightly overlapping. Do the same with the salami. The prosciutto will form the outer layer, while the salami will add additional flavor to the filling.
Layer the Filling: Place the basil leaves across the center of the prosciutto and salami. Then, add the arugula for some fresh crunch, followed by the sun-dried tomatoes for a burst of flavor. Tear the burrata into small pieces and distribute them evenly across the other ingredients.
Season the Roll: Season the filling with a pinch of salt, black pepper, and a sprinkle of oregano. Then, drizzle with extra virgin olive oil and balsamic glaze to add some depth to the flavors.
Roll and Slice: Starting from the long edge, tightly roll the prosciutto and salami over the filling, creating a long, neat roll. Once rolled, slice the roll into 6-8 even pieces, making them easy to serve as bite-sized portions.
Serve and Enjoy: Arrange the rolls on a plate and serve with extra balsamic glaze for dipping.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

Italian Sushi is an adaptable recipe that can be customized to suit different tastes. Here are a few variations you can consider:

Vegetarian Version: Skip the prosciutto and salami, and instead use a mix of grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant. The burrata and sun-dried tomatoes will still provide plenty of flavor, while the fresh herbs will keep it light and refreshing.
Add a Touch of Spice: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding some sliced chili peppers or a drizzle of spicy olive oil. The added spice will give the rolls an extra kick that contrasts well with the creamy burrata and savory meats.
Different Cheeses: While burrata is the star cheese in this dish, you could also try using mozzarella, goat cheese, or ricotta for a different texture and flavor. Each cheese will offer a unique twist on the dish.
Pair with Wine: Italian Sushi pairs beautifully with Italian wines such as a crisp Pinot Grigio, light Chianti, or even a Prosecco for a celebratory touch. The freshness of the wine will complement the light and savory flavors of the dish.

Health Considerations of Italian Sushi

Though delicious, Italian Sushi is best enjoyed in moderation, especially for those watching their calorie intake. The use of prosciutto and salami adds protein and flavor, but these meats are also high in sodium and fat. The burrata cheese, while creamy and delicious, is also rich in fat, so keep portion sizes in mind.

For those looking for a lighter option, consider using less cheese or replacing some of the prosciutto and salami with leaner proteins like turkey or chicken breast. You can also experiment with adding more vegetables to create a healthier, lower-fat version of the dish without sacrificing flavor.

Conclusion: A Unique Twist on Traditional Sushi

Italian Sushi is a fun and flavorful twist on the traditional Japanese sushi. It brings together the fresh, savory elements of Italian cuisine in a handheld format that’s easy to prepare and sure to impress your guests. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, having a casual get-together, or simply want a quick appetizer, this dish is a great option. Its rich ingredients, from the creamy burrata to the savory meats, combined with fresh herbs and a touch of balsamic glaze, make it a memorable and delightful appetizer that offers a taste of Italy in every bite.

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