As I sat at a charming outdoor café in Italy, I couldn’t help but admire the elegant twist on traditional fare all around me. That’s when I knew I had to create my own take on this culinary marvel—introducing my Viral Italian Sushi with Creamy Burrata! This delightful appetizer brings together creamy burrata, peppery arugula, and sweet sun-dried tomatoes, all wrapped in savory prosciutto. Not only is it a breeze to prepare, but it’s also an impressive crowd-pleaser that will entice your guests with a taste of Italy’s charm. Perfect for those looking to elevate their appetizer game while embracing a fresh, indulgent bite, these rolls are bound to become a staple at your gatherings. Who’s ready to roll up some mouthwatering Italian goodness?

Why is Italian Sushi so irresistible?

Uniquely Delicious: This recipe combines traditional Italian ingredients like burrata and prosciutto with the sushi format, creating a new favorite.
Effortless Preparation: Only a few simple steps needed mean you can whip this up in no time!
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Perfect for parties, this appetizer is not just tasty; it’s visually stunning too, sure to impress guests.
Fresh Flavor Explosion: The creamy burrata paired with peppery arugula and tangy sun-dried tomatoes offers a fresh, distinct taste.
Versatile Options: Feel free to swap ingredients to suit your taste or dietary needs, making it adaptable for any gathering. For a heartier meal, check out my Giant Italian Combo!

Italian Sushi Ingredients

For the Wrap
• Prosciutto – Adds delightful saltiness and umami; replace with ham or Mortadella if desired.
• Burrata – This creamy cheese enhances richness; mozzarella or Fior Di Latte can be tasty alternatives.

For the Filling
• Baby Arugula – Provides refreshing peppery crunch; microgreens make a chic substitute.
• Sun-Dried Tomatoes – Offer bursts of sweet and tangy flavor; fresh diced tomatoes are a great alternative.

For the Drizzle
• Balsamic Glaze – Perfect for enhancing sweetness and acidity; optional but highly recommended for extra flavor.

Enjoy crafting your delightful Italian sushi with these key ingredients!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Italian Sushi

Step 1: Prepare the Prosciutto Base
Lay a sheet of parchment paper on your clean countertop. Arrange slices of prosciutto slightly overlapping, ensuring they cover an area sufficient for wrapping the fillings. This will help create a solid base for your Italian Sushi, allowing for a neat roll. Aim for a rectangle about the size of a small sushi mat, as this will form the tasty shell for your luscious ingredients.

Step 2: Add the Fresh Ingredients
On the prosciutto base, sprinkle a generous handful of fresh baby arugula evenly across the surface, followed by a few pieces of sun-dried tomatoes. Next, take a soft burrata ball and tear it open, distributing the creamy goodness thoughtfully over the arugula and tomatoes. This layering of flavors is what makes the Italian Sushi so enticing, ensuring every bite is filled with rich texture and vibrant taste.

Step 3: Drizzle with Balsamic Glaze
Grab your balsamic glaze and drizzle it gently over the filling. This step adds a touch of sweetness that beautifully contrasts the saltiness of the prosciutto and enhances the overall flavor profile of your Italian Sushi. Be generous but controlled, as too much glaze can overpower the delightful combination of the creamy burrata and tangy sun-dried tomatoes.

Step 4: Roll the Italian Sushi
With the fillings in place, start rolling the prosciutto tightly around the ingredients. Use the parchment paper to guide the roll and keep the fillings secure as you go. Aim for a firm but not overly tight roll, allowing room for the creamy burrata. Once rolled, carefully wrap the sushi in the parchment paper, sealing the edges as needed to maintain shape.

Step 5: Slice and Serve
Using a sharp knife, slice the rolled Italian Sushi into bite-sized pieces, about 2 inches wide. Arrange these delectable pieces on a serving platter, exposing the vibrant colors of the filling. The contrast of the prosciutto, arugula, and burrata should be visually stunning, making it an attractive appetizer for your guests. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor, and enjoy this exquisite twist on sushi!

Expert Tips for Italian Sushi

Proper Overlap: Ensure prosciutto slices overlap slightly to create a solid wrap. This helps prevent any fillings from escaping during rolling.
Freshness is Key: Enjoy your Italian Sushi right after making it for the best texture and flavor. Avoid making it too far in advance, as the burrata can lose its creaminess.
Presentation Matters: Use chopsticks when serving to enhance the sushi theme and create a delightful dining experience that adds to the appeal of your Italian Sushi.
Flavor Balance: Drizzle balsamic glaze lightly; too much can overshadow the lovely taste of the creamy burrata and fresh ingredients.
Experiment with Ingredients: Feel free to adjust the ingredients to your liking, swapping cheese or adding vegetables, which keeps your Italian Sushi exciting and tailored to your tastes.

How to Store and Freeze Italian Sushi

Best Served Fresh: Enjoy your Italian Sushi immediately after preparation to savor the wonderful texture and flavors.

Refrigeration: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 hours. However, note that the burrata may lose its creaminess over time.

Freezing Not Recommended: This dish is best eaten fresh and does not freeze well, as the delicate ingredients will not retain their quality.

Reheating Tips: If necessary, let any refrigerated portions come to room temperature before serving; avoid microwaving to prevent compromising the textures.

Italian Sushi Variations & Substitutions

Get ready to elevate your delicious Italian Sushi experience with these delightful variations that’ll make your taste buds dance!

Dairy-Free: Try cashew cream or coconut yogurt instead of burrata for a creamy touch without the dairy.
Vegetarian: Swap prosciutto for grilled zucchini or eggplant, adding a smoky flavor without meat.
Crunchy Twist: Add toasted pine nuts or walnuts inside for extra crunch and a nutty flavor blast.
Spicy Kick: Introduce some sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of chili oil to bring the heat and vibrant spice to this dish.
Herb-Infused: Enhance the flavor by sprinkling fresh basil or mint leaves with the arugula, adding a fragrant twist to each bite.
Gourmet Upgrade: Introduce truffle oil when adding the balsamic glaze for an extra touch of elegance and richness to your sushi rolls.
Savory Swaps: Experiment with prosciutto alternatives like smoked turkey or turkey bacon if you’re looking for a leaner option.
Fruity Addition: Diced fresh figs or peaches mixed with the sun-dried tomatoes can provide a sweet, luscious layer to your sushi.

With these fun variations and substitutions, you can enjoy your Italian Sushi in countless exciting ways. If you’re in the mood for something else Italian-inspired, you might also love my Italian Crescent Roll or the hearty Giant Italian Combo!

Make Ahead Options

These delicious Italian Sushi rolls are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during meal prep! You can prepare the prosciutto base and filling (burrata, arugula, and sun-dried tomatoes) up to 24 hours in advance. Simply layer the prosciutto on parchment and leave the fillings separate in airtight containers within the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, just assemble the rolls by rolling the prepared prosciutto around the filling ingredients, drizzling with balsamic glaze, and slicing into bite-sized pieces. This method ensures you can enjoy a fresh and satisfying appetizer without compromising flavor or texture, making your entertaining a breeze!

What to Serve with Italian Sushi

Elevate your appetizer spread with delightful pairings that enhance the flavors of this unique sushi twist.

Crispy Garlic Bread: The warm, buttery flavor complements the creamy burrata, adding a cozy crunch to your plate. It’s an irresistible pairing at any gathering.
Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette adds freshness and balances the richness of the prosciutto and burrata. Toss in seasonal veggies for extra crunch.
Roasted Vegetables: The smoky sweetness of roasted veggies like bell peppers and zucchini offers a hearty contrast and vibrant color to your Italian sushi.
Herb-infused Olive Oil: Drizzle this aromatic oil over the sushi for added depth. The herbal notes play beautifully with the flavors in each roll.
Sparkling White Wine: The effervescence cuts through the creaminess, enhancing the enjoyment of each tasty bite while keeping the evening festive.
Fruit Platter: Seasonal fruits like figs, pears, or grapes provide a sweet finish and an elegant touch, offering a refreshing counterpoint to the savory sushi.

Italian Sushi Recipe FAQs

What type of prosciutto is best for Italian Sushi?
Absolutely! Use high-quality prosciutto for the best flavor. Look for thinly sliced varieties with a nice balance of fat. If you can’t find prosciutto, you can substitute with other deli meats like ham or Mortadella, but keep in mind that prosciutto provides a unique umami taste.

How should I store leftovers of Italian Sushi?
If you happen to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 hours. Keep in mind that the burrata may lose its delicate creaminess over time, which is why we recommend enjoying your Italian Sushi fresh for the ultimate experience!

Can I freeze Italian Sushi?
I’m afraid not! This delightful dish does not freeze well. The delicate ingredients won’t maintain their texture or flavor after freezing. Instead, it’s best to enjoy them fresh for that perfect burst of flavors.

What if my burrata is too firm?
Very good question! If your burrata is a bit too firm, try letting it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before using. This allows it to soften and become creamier, ensuring that it spreads beautifully across your Italian Sushi.

Are there any dietary considerations with this recipe?
Definitely! If you’re preparing this for someone with dietary restrictions, you can create a vegetarian version by simply omitting the prosciutto and adding more vegetables like cucumbers or roasted peppers. Always ensure to check for allergies with guests regarding the creamy burrata or any alternative ingredients you may use.

How do I make my Italian Sushi visually appealing?
Presentation is key! When serving your Italian Sushi, consider using chopsticks to embrace the sushi theme and add that elegant touch. You can also arrange the pieces on a beautiful platter, showcasing the colorful fillings of arugula and sun-dried tomatoes peeking through the prosciutto. Enjoy creating a feast for both the eyes and the palate!