Picture this: a bustling kitchen filled with laughter and the tantalizing aroma of savory Italian ingredients mixing together. That was the scene last weekend when my friends dropped by unexpectedly. With a potluck looming and my pantry running low, I needed a dish that was not only impressive but also playful in presentation. Enter the delightful world of Italian Sushi—a delightful fusion that transforms traditional flavors into a fresh and fun appetizer.
This recipe is a celebration of simplicity and bold taste, featuring creamy burrata, savory prosciutto, and vibrant basil, all wrapped up in an elegant sushi-like roll. What I love most about Italian Sushi is its versatility. Whether you’re hosting a weekend gathering or simply looking to elevate your weeknight dinner, this dish is sure to impress. And here’s the best part: it comes together in just 10 minutes! Join me on this culinary adventure and discover how easy it is to bring a little Italian flair to your table.
Why is Italian Sushi so irresistible?
Simplicity: This delightful dish requires just 10 minutes of prep, making it an effortless go-to for busy evenings or last-minute gatherings.
Bold Flavors: The combination of creamy burrata, savory prosciutto, and zesty sun-dried tomatoes delivers a flavor explosion that bursts with Italian flair.
Versatile: Perfect as an appetizer for parties or a unique addition to your dinner table, it appeals to everyone’s taste buds.
Fresh Ingredients: Using vibrant, fresh herbs like basil and arugula enhances both the taste and presentation.
Crowd-Pleaser: Everyone loves sushi, and this fun twist will have your guests raving! Get ready to serve up smiles with this exciting recipe. Don’t forget to check out my tips on how to make the perfect sushi for added inspiration!
Italian Sushi Ingredients
For the Rolls
• Prosciutto – A key ingredient adding a savory depth; feel free to substitute with thinly sliced ham for a lighter twist.
• Italian Salami – Packed with flavor, it complements the prosciutto beautifully and can be replaced with a similar cured meat if needed.
• Fresh Basil Leaves – Adds a burst of freshness; try replacing with fresh spinach if basil is unavailable.
• Arugula or Spinach – Offers a peppery bite; use whatever greens you prefer or have on hand for variation.
• Burrata – This creamy cheese adds luxurious richness; mozzarella can be used as a substitute in a pinch.
• Sun-Dried Tomatoes – Infuses the rolls with a tangy sweetness; consider using jarred roasted red peppers for a different flavor.
For Seasoning and Drizzle
• Kosher Salt – Enhances the flavors; always salt to taste, as cured meats can already bring in some saltiness.
• Black Pepper – Adds a hint of warmth; feel free to skip it if you prefer a milder flavor.
• Oregano – A classic Italian herb that rounds out the taste; dried oregano works well if fresh isn’t on hand.
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil – A drizzle elevates flavor and adds a silky texture; choose a high-quality oil for the best taste.
• Balsamic Glaze – Completes the dish with a sweet tang; you can use regular balsamic vinegar if you don’t have glaze.
Bring the unique flavors of Italian Sushi to your table with these carefully selected ingredients!
How to Make Italian Sushi
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Prepare the Base: Line a cutting board with parchment paper and lay the prosciutto slices parallel to one another. Ensure the edges overlap slightly, then do the same with the salami for a sturdy foundation.
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Layer the Filling: Place the fresh basil leaves across the center of the prosciutto, followed by a generous handful of arugula. Next, add the sun-dried tomatoes and dollop the creamy burrata on top, spreading it evenly. Season with salt, pepper, and oregano, then drizzle with olive oil and balsamic glaze for that extra zing.
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Roll It Up: Starting from the long edge, carefully wrap the prosciutto around the filling, keeping each slice connected. Roll tightly, like a sushi roll, until you have a lovely, long log.
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Slice and Serve: Use a sharp knife to cut the log into 6-8 even pieces. Serve immediately with additional balsamic glaze drizzled on top for that perfect finish.
Optional: Garnish with extra basil leaves for a pop of color!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Italian Sushi
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Use Quality Ingredients: The secret to exceptional Italian Sushi lies in high-quality ingredients. Fresh prosciutto and creamy burrata make all the difference!
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Roll Tightly: When wrapping, make sure to roll tightly but gently. A loose roll can lead to filling spilling out, making it messy to slice.
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Fresh vs. Dried Herbs: Always choose fresh basil for the best flavor; if unavailable, use dried oregano but note the taste will be less vibrant.
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Slice Neatly: A sharp knife is essential for clean cuts. Dull knives can crush the roll, ruining the gorgeous presentation of your Italian Sushi.
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Drizzle Last: To prevent sogginess, add balsamic glaze just before serving. This keeps the rolls fresh and visually appealing for your guests.
Enjoying Italian Sushi at home has never been easier with these simple tips!
What to Serve with Italian Sushi?
Elevate your meal with delightful pairings that enhance the flavors and charm of this unique dish.
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Crispy Bruschetta: A crunchy base topped with fresh tomatoes and basil, adding a perfect contrast in texture and brightness to your sushi rolls.
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Savory Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic help to continue the Italian theme while refreshing the palate.
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Garlic Herb Breadsticks: Warm and buttery, these add a comforting element to the dining experience, making for a satisfying combination.
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Zesty Italian Pasta Salad: Cold pasta with vibrant veggies and a tangy dressing brings a burst of flavor that complements the creamy burrata.
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Chilled White Wine: A glass of crisp Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc enhances the dish’s freshness and balances the richness of the burrata.
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Honey Drizzled Yogurt Parfait: For dessert, a light parfait with yogurt, honey, and seasonal fruit lends a sweet finish that’s both refreshing and indulgent.
Pair these suggestions with your Italian Sushi for a meal that’s truly unforgettable, leaving your guests longing for more!
Make Ahead Options
These Italian Sushi rolls are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the filling—basil, arugula, sun-dried tomatoes, and burrata—up to 24 hours in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To prevent the prosciutto from getting soggy, roll the ingredients together just before serving. When you’re ready to enjoy your Italian Sushi, simply lay the prosciutto and salami on the parchment paper, add your prepped filling, roll it up tightly, and slice. This way, you’ll have a delicious appetizer ready with minimal effort, ensuring your meal planning is as effortless as possible!
How to Store and Freeze Italian Sushi
Fridge: Store any leftover Italian Sushi in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep the balsamic glaze separate until serving to maintain freshness.
Freezer: While not recommended for this dish due to ingredients like burrata, if you must freeze, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and use within 1 month.
Reheating: This dish is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature. If you’ve frozen it, thaw in the fridge overnight, then serve fresh without reheating to preserve texture.
Serving Tip: For the best balance of flavors, drizzle additional balsamic glaze right before serving leftovers—they’ll taste just as delightful!
Italian Sushi Variations
Feel free to make this dish your own by experimenting with flavors and textures that make your taste buds sing!
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Vegetarian: Substitute the prosciutto and salami with thinly sliced grilled vegetables, like zucchini and bell peppers, for a fresh twist. This variation showcases seasonal veggies and adds a delightful crunch!
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Spicy: Add sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the filling for a zesty kick. Combining the heat with the creamy burrata will tantalize your palate and ignite your dining experience.
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Herbed Cream Cheese: Replace burrata with herbed cream cheese for a different creamy texture and a flavor boost. The combination of herbs will elevate the overall taste profile and keep things exciting!
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Nutty: Include chopped nuts like pine nuts or walnuts for an unexpected crunch. This adds texture and richness, making every bite more enjoyable and satisfying.
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Fruit Fusion: Add sweet slices of figs or pears for a delightful contrast to the savory flavors. This twist turns the dish into a sweet-savory masterpiece, perfect for those who love unique flavor combinations.
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Lighter Version: Use turkey breast instead of prosciutto and salami for a leaner roll. It’s a fantastic option for those looking to enjoy a lighter meal while still relishing Italian-inspired flavors.
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Cheesy Delight: Incorporate goat cheese along with burrata for a rich and tangy flavor profile. This creamy duo provides an indulgent experience that your guests will love.
Get creative, mix and match, and see what combinations bring a smile to your face!
Italian Sushi Recipe FAQs
What type of prosciutto should I use for Italian Sushi?
Absolutely! It’s best to opt for high-quality prosciutto, as it adds savory depth to the rolls. Look for one that’s thinly sliced and has a nice balance of fat; if you can’t find it, thinly sliced ham is a good substitute.
How should I store leftover Italian Sushi?
Very simple! Place any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge, where they will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Just remember to keep the balsamic glaze separate until you’re ready to serve again, which helps maintain flavor and texture.
Can I freeze Italian Sushi?
While I generally wouldn’t recommend freezing this dish due to the creamy burrata, you can if necessary. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil and store it in an airtight container. It’s best to consume within 1 month, but keep in mind the texture may not be the same after thawing.
What should I do if my prosciutto tears while rolling?
No need to worry! If your prosciutto tears, just overlap the torn pieces and continue to roll. It may not look perfect, but it will still taste fantastic. Remember, cooking is about having fun, and your guests will still rave over the delicious flavors!
Are there any dietary considerations for Italian Sushi?
Absolutely! This Italian Sushi is not gluten-free due to the prosciutto and salami. For a gluten-free version, you can easily swap these out for gluten-free alternatives. Also, if you’re planning to serve to pets or have allergy concerns, be cautious with feeding them prosciutto, as it is high in sodium and fatty.
What can I use instead of burrata?
If you can’t find burrata, feel free to opt for fresh mozzarella as an alternative. Slice it thinly and layer it over the sun-dried tomatoes. You can even mix in a bit of cream cheese for added creaminess if you want to mimic that luscious texture!
Savory Italian Sushi Rolls That Redefine Comfort Food
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Line a cutting board with parchment paper and lay the prosciutto slices parallel to one another, overlapping slightly. Do the same with the salami.
- Place fresh basil leaves across the center of the prosciutto, followed by arugula, sun-dried tomatoes, and dollop the burrata on top. Season with salt, pepper, and oregano, then drizzle with olive oil and balsamic glaze.
- Starting from the long edge, carefully roll the prosciutto around the filling, keeping each slice connected. Roll tightly to form a log.
- Use a sharp knife to slice the log into 6-8 even pieces. Serve immediately with additional balsamic glaze on top.
