Ham and Melon Baskets

To prepare the ham and melon baskets, you must first carve the melons to create small containers that we will then fill. Start by cutting a slice from the top of the melon 1. Now flip it over, placing it on the cut part 2 for greater stability. Proceed with cutting what will soon become the handle of the basket. Make a deep cut on the top of the fruit about 0.6 inches (1.5 cm) from the stem, cutting down to the middle of the melon 3.

Make another identical and parallel cut, 1.2 inches (3 cm) apart from the first one 4. Again, insert the knife halfway into the melon, as if you were slicing it. Cut one of the two lateral sections obtained and remove it (5-6).

Cut the base of the other section and proceed in the same manner (7-8). With the remaining central part, you'll create the basket handle: insert the knife blade into the flesh, keeping about 0.4 inches (1 cm) from the rind 9.

Follow the shape of the melon 10 and finish with a horizontal cut 11; remove the semicircle of flesh obtained. Now you can scoop out the seeds using a spoon 12.

and the filaments from the center of the melon (13-14). Gather the flesh into small spheres using a melon baller 15.

Collect them in a bowl as they become ready, and until the melon is completely hollowed out 16. With the help of a sharp knife, now carve the edges of the basket to give it a scalloped profile (17-18).

It's time to fill the basket: place the melon flesh balls inside 19 along with the roses obtained by rolling ham slices into little buds (20 and 21).

Arrange them at regular intervals to give the appearance of a bouquet 22. Now obtain some celery strings by gently pulling out a few long outer filaments with a small knife as shown 23. Use the celery strings to tie fresh mint sprigs to the handle of the melon basket 24.

the sprig of currants 25, and the decorative edible flowers 26. Now your basket is ready to be served and amaze your guests!