5 Easy Recipes with Iberian Ham to Enjoy at Home

Iberian ham is a delight on its own, but it can also be the star of many easy and quick recipes that stand out for their flavor and elegance. Incorporating it into different preparations not only adds a touch of sophistication but also elevates any dish with its intense notes and unparalleled texture. In this article, we present five simple recipes to enjoy Iberian ham at home and surprise your guests or treat yourself.

1. Classic Starter: Melon with Iberian Ham

• Ingredients:

  • 1 cantaloupe or Galia melon
  • 150 g of thinly sliced Iberian ham
  • Mint or basil leaves (optional)

Preparation: Melon with ham is a classic dish that stands out for its combination of sweet and savory flavors. To prepare this starter, cut the melon in half, remove the seeds, and slice it into thin wedges or cubes. Ensure the melon is fresh and juicy to enhance the contrast with the salty ham. Place one or two slices of Iberian ham on each melon piece and, if desired, add a mint leaf for a touch of freshness.

Additional tip: For a more elegant presentation, roll the ham slices and arrange them decoratively on the melon. This dish is perfect as an appetizer at a special dinner or as part of a buffet.

2. Bruschettas with Iberian Ham and Tomato

• Ingredients:

  • 4 slices of rustic bread or baguette
  • 2 ripe tomatoes
  • 1 clove of garlic
  • Extra virgin olive oil
  • 100 g of thinly sliced Iberian ham
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation: Toast the bread slices in a pan or in the oven until golden and crispy. While the bread cools slightly, cut the tomatoes in half and grate the pulp into a bowl, discarding the skin. Rub the garlic clove on each slice of bread to add flavor. Add a generous layer of grated tomato, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Finally, place a slice of Iberian ham on each bruschetta and serve immediately.

Additional tip: You can add a sprinkle of chopped fresh basil for a Mediterranean touch. This recipe is perfect as a tapa or appetizer before the main course.

3. Creamy Iberian Ham and Parmesan Risotto

• Ingredients:

  • 300 g of arborio rice
  • 1 liter of chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 150 ml of dry white wine
  • 100 g of Iberian ham, cut into strips
  • 50 g of grated Parmesan cheese
  • 30 g of butter
  • Extra virgin olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation: In a large pan, heat a little olive oil and add the chopped onion. Sauté over medium heat until translucent. Add the rice and stir for a couple of minutes to coat with the oil. Pour in the white wine and cook until evaporated, stirring constantly. Add the hot broth gradually, one ladleful at a time, stirring continuously. Wait until the rice absorbs the liquid before adding more broth.

When the rice is nearly cooked (about 18-20 minutes), add the Iberian ham strips and mix well. Stir in the butter and Parmesan cheese until creamy. Adjust the salt and pepper to taste and serve immediately.

Pairing suggestion: A fruity white wine or a young red wine complements this risotto perfectly, highlighting the flavors of the ham and Parmesan.

4. Poached Egg with Iberian Ham and Asparagus

• Ingredients:

  • 4 eggs
  • 1 bunch of green asparagus
  • 100 g of thinly sliced Iberian ham
  • White vinegar
  • Extra virgin olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation: Wash the asparagus and trim the tough ends. Sauté the asparagus in a pan with a little olive oil for 5 minutes or until tender-crisp. Set aside.

To prepare the poached eggs, bring a pot of water with a dash of vinegar to a gentle boil. Create a whirlpool in the water with a spoon and slide in an egg cracked into a small bowl. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the white is set and the yolk is still runny. Remove with a slotted spoon and repeat with the remaining eggs.

Arrange the asparagus on a plate, place the poached eggs on top, and garnish with slices of Iberian ham. Drizzle with a bit of olive oil, salt, and pepper to taste.

Additional tip: For an extra touch, sprinkle some sweet paprika over the eggs before serving.

5. Cheese and Iberian Ham Platter with Pairing

• Ingredients:

  • 150 g of thinly sliced Iberian ham
  • A selection of cheeses: aged Manchego, brie, blue cheese, and mild goat cheese
  • Fresh fruits (grapes, figs, or apple slices)
  • Nuts (almonds, walnuts)
  • Honey or fig jam
  • Rustic bread or crackers

Preparation: Arrange the cheese portions on a large platter or board. Place the slices of Iberian ham decoratively around the cheeses. Add the fresh fruits and nuts for texture and a contrast of flavors. Serve with a touch of honey or fig jam, which pairs deliciously with the ham and cheeses. Complete the platter with rustic bread or crackers for accompaniment.

Pairing suggestion: A young red wine or dry sherry is the perfect choice to accompany this platter, enhancing the flavors of the cheeses and ham. For a non-alcoholic option, a dry cider can also be an excellent choice.

Iberian ham is an ingredient that elevates any dish, from simple starters to more elaborate recipes. Its versatility and unmistakable flavor make it the perfect option to surprise in the kitchen and enjoy a unique gastronomic experience at home. These recipes show that you don’t need to complicate things to make the most of Iberian ham, and a touch of creativity can take your dishes to the next level.