When I first encountered the notion of Italian Sushi, I was taken aback by the delightful surprise it offered. Imagine the lusciousness of homemade sushi but without the daunting task of rolling rice—this dish combines the savory essence of Italy with the simplicity of a quick appetizer. Picture a vibrant platter adorned with layers of prosciutto, salami, and creamy burrata, all wrapped up in a burst of fresh basil and peppery arugula. Each bite is an explosion of flavor that is sure to wow your friends and family.
In a world where fast food often overshadows homemade cooking, this elegant yet effortless recipe stands out as a perfect remedy for your craving for something fresh and nutritious. With just 10 minutes of your time, you’ll elevate your kitchen game and delight your taste buds, regardless of whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a gathering. Join me in creating this flavorful fusion that redefines snacking—your palate will thank you!
Why You'll Love This Italian Sushi
- This Italian Sushi is incredibly easy to make, requiring just 10 minutes of prep time for a delightful appetizer.
- The combination of savory prosciutto, salami, and creamy burrata creates a flavor explosion that will impress your friends and family.
- Its versatility allows you to customize the ingredients to suit your taste, making it perfect for any occasion.
- With its vibrant colors and stylish presentation, this dish will add a stunning visual appeal to your table, making it an instant crowd-pleaser.<br />
Italian Sushi Ingredients
For the Base
• 7 slices prosciutto – adds a rich, salty flavor and beautiful texture.
• 5-7 slices Italian salami – provides a savory kick that complements the prosciutto perfectly.
For the Freshness
• 3-4 leaves fresh basil – imparts a fragrant aroma and vibrant color to your rolls.
• 1-2 cups arugula or spinach – gives a peppery punch while boosting the nutrition of your Italian sushi.
For the Creaminess
• 1 ball burrata – brings a luscious, creamy element that ties all the flavors together.
For the Flavor Boosters
• Kosher salt (to taste) – enhances the overall flavor profile of your Italian sushi.
• Black pepper (to taste) – adds a touch of warmth and depth to each bite.
• Oregano (to taste) – introduces a hint of herbal zest that complements the meats.
For the Finishing Touches
• Extra virgin olive oil (to taste) – drizzles beautifully and adds a smooth, rich layer to the dish.
• Balsamic glaze (to taste) – delivers a sweet and tangy contrast, elevating the entire flavor experience.
With these Italian sushi ingredients, you’re all set to create a dish that reimagines how we snack at home!
How to Make Italian Sushi
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Layer the prosciutto and salami on a flat surface. Start by overlapping the slices slightly, creating a sturdy base filled with salty goodness. Aim for a nice, even layer to hold your fillings well.
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Add fresh basil leaves and arugula or spinach on top. Pile them on generously, their vibrant colors and fresh flavors will elevate your rolls and add a delightful crunch!
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Place sun-dried tomatoes and burrata in the center. Make sure the burrata is positioned in a way that when you roll, the creamy goodness bursts out with every bite.
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Season with kosher salt, black pepper, oregano, and drizzle with olive oil and balsamic glaze. This step ties all the flavors together—don’t be shy with your seasonings!
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Roll tightly and slice into logs. Start from one end and roll gently but firmly, then cut into bite-sized pieces to serve. Each slice should be a colorful, appetizing delight!
Optional: Serve with extra balsamic glaze for dipping.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Italian Sushi rolls are a fantastic option for meal prep! You can prepare the filling components—layers of prosciutto, salami, fresh basil, arugula, and sun-dried tomatoes—up to 24 hours in advance. Just ensure you tightly cover them with plastic wrap to maintain freshness and prevent wilting. When you’re ready to serve, simply assemble your rolls by laying the prepared fillings on a flat surface, adding the burrata and necessary seasonings, then rolling them up and slicing. This way, you’ll enjoy restaurant-quality Italian Sushi with minimal effort, perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining guests!
How to Store and Freeze Italian Sushi
Fridge: Keep leftover Italian Sushi wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or in an airtight container. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezer: While freezing isn’t ideal for this fresh dish, if necessary, you can freeze individual rolls in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
Reheating: For the best taste, enjoy Italian Sushi cold. If you prefer, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before eating to enhance the flavors.
Serving Tips: Slice just before serving to maintain freshness, and consider drizzling a tad more balsamic glaze on top for that extra touch of flavor!
What to Serve with Italian Sushi?
Elevate your dining experience with vibrant sides and delightful pairings that complement this easy and flavorful dish.
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Crispy Caprese Salad: Juicy tomatoes and fresh mozzarella paired with basil create a refreshing contrast to the savory sushi.
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Garlic Breadsticks: These warm, buttery sticks offer a delightful crunch, adding an inviting textural element to your meal.
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Herbed Quinoa: Nutty quinoa infused with herbs brings a wholesome, filling option that balances the richness of the sushi.
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Olive Tapenade: A spread bursting with robust flavors that enhances the salty meats, perfect for a zesty match on the palate.
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Sparkling Lemonade: This refreshing drink provided a citrusy brightness and effervescence, making it a fun complement to your meal.
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Lemon Sorbet: A light dessert with lively lemon notes serves as a refreshing finish, cleansing your palate after the savory sushi.
With these mouthwatering pairings, your Italian sushi experience will be nothing short of unforgettable!
Italian Sushi Variations
Feel free to get creative with this recipe and make it your own with these delightful twists!
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Veggie Delight: Substitute the meat with roasted vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers for a vibrant plant-based option.
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Cheese Swap: Replace burrata with fresh mozzarella or ricotta for a slightly different creamy texture and flavor.
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Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the filling for a touch of heat that excites the palate.
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Herb Boost: Mix in other fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro to add extra layers of flavor and freshness to each roll.
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Nutty Crunch: Incorporate chopped nuts like pine nuts or walnuts in the filling for a surprising crunch in every bite.
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Fruit Fusion: Add thin slices of fresh figs or pears for a hint of sweetness that beautifully complements the savory ingredients.
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Different Greens: Swap arugula for kale or mustard greens for a more robust flavor profile and added nutritional benefits.
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Savory Spread: Try spreading a layer of pesto or tapenade on the meat before rolling for an added burst of flavor that ties everything together.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When making Italian Sushi, ensure you overlap the prosciutto and salami slightly to create a sturdy base for your fillings.
- A common mistake is to under-season; make sure to taste your dish before rolling to ensure the flavors are well-balanced and bright.
- When rolling the sushi, start gently and apply even pressure to contain the fillings without squashing them, which helps maintain the beautiful layers.
- To make slicing easier, use a sharp, wet knife to ensure clean cuts through the delightful ingredients.
Italian Sushi Recipe FAQs
What type of prosciutto is best for Italian Sushi?
Absolutely! When choosing prosciutto for your Italian Sushi, go for high-quality, thinly sliced varieties such as prosciutto di Parma or prosciutto San Daniele. The flavor and texture are key for creating that rich, savory base. Look for prosciutto that has a nice marbling and a slightly pink hue for the best results.
How should I store leftovers of Italian Sushi?
Very! Leftover Italian Sushi can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container to maintain freshness. This will help keep the ingredients from wilting and ensure you enjoy the flavors as intended.
Can I freeze Italian Sushi?
While freezing is not recommended for this fresh dish, if you must, you can freeze individual rolls. To do this, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They will stay good for up to 1 month. When ready to eat, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight for the best texture.
What if my burrata isn’t creamy enough for Italian Sushi?
If you find that your burrata is a bit firmer than expected, don’t worry! You can gently microwave it for about 10-15 seconds. This will soften it, bringing back that creamy, luscious texture that makes Italian Sushi so delightful. Just be careful not to overheat it—you’re aiming for a melt-in-your-mouth experience!
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Absolutely! If you’re catering to specific dietary needs, consider using gluten-free prosciutto to make sure your Italian Sushi is safe for those with gluten sensitivities. Additionally, if you’re preparing this dish for someone with lactose intolerance, try substituting burrata with a vegan cheese alternative that complements the other flavors without the dairy.
Can I customize the ingredients in my Italian Sushi?
The more the merrier! Feel free to add or substitute ingredients based on what you have on hand. You could include roasted red peppers, olives, or even a dash of pesto for an extra layer of flavor. Just make sure to maintain the balance of savory and fresh ingredients to keep the essence of Italian Sushi intact!
Italian Sushi
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Layer the prosciutto and salami on a flat surface, overlapping slightly for a sturdy base.
- Add fresh basil leaves and arugula or spinach on top generously.
- Place burrata in the center to burst with creamy goodness.
- Season with kosher salt, black pepper, oregano, olive oil, and balsamic glaze.
- Roll tightly and slice into logs to serve.
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