Do you have ham at the deli counter?
'Prosciutto' — 'pro-SHOO-tto'. Three syllables. 'Sc' before 'i' = 'sh'. Double 'tt'. Stress on second syllable.
Asking for freshly sliced ham from the deli counter ('banco salumi'). Freshly sliced is always preferable to pre-packaged in Italian food culture.
'Al banco' = at the counter. 'Prosciutto' = ham (cured). 'Prosciutto crudo' = cured/raw ham (Parma, San Daniele). 'Prosciutto cotto' = cooked ham. Always specify which type.
Quanto vuole? / Quanti grammi?
How much would you like? / How many grams?
The deli counter's standard question — know your weights
Cento grammi di prosciutto crudo, per favore.
One hundred grams of cured ham, please.
A standard quantity — enough for 2 people
Lo vuole sottile o spesso?
Do you want it thin or thick?
The counter person will ask about slice thickness
The Italian deli counter ('banco salumi e formaggi') is a sacred institution. The difference between Prosciutto di Parma DOP and San Daniele DOP is debated with passion — Parma is sweeter and lighter; San Daniele is slightly more intense with a distinctive trotter shape.