I enjoyed this dish last summer in Arles, France. It was a simple yet exquisite dish simply made with melon, prosciutto, arugula, fresh whipped cream, and a drizzle of raspberry sauce. It was a perfect balance of flavors — sweet, salty, creamy, and tart — and ideal for a 93-degree day dining al fresco at a French bistro. The ingredients were simple, and the presentation was beautiful. I snapped a picture so I could replicate it at home.
While replicating a restaurant dish isn’t always an exact match at home, it can be a wonderful starting point to inspire your own version. Recreating this dish took me back to that sunny afternoon in Arles. It’s a reminder that even the simplest combinations can be exquisite. Here’s how I brought this taste of Provence to my table.
This dish makes a lovely starter or light lunch, especially during the warmer months. Pair it with a crisp rosé or sparkling water with lemon for a refreshing touch. If you have picky eaters at your table, they may enjoy only the melon and ham with a dollop of cream, and you can still serve one dish to please everyone.
I made this version when I was on vacation and out of arugula. I replaced the arugula with some micro-greens on hand. It was delicious. This an easy, quick lunch to make while on vacation.
This balsamic vinegar has a fabulous flavor and is not overpowering or too sweet. You can find it here.
