Appetizers & Starters > Meat-Based Starters > Charcuterie Boards > Cured Meats Selection

Italian Cured Meat Charcuterie Board

Create a stunning Italian-inspired charcuterie board featuring a selection of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and crusty bread. This appetizer is perfect for sharing and will impress your guests with its diverse flavors and textures.

Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time
0 minutes
Servings
6-8
Ingredients
  • 4 oz Prosciutto
  • 4 oz Salami (Genoa or Sopressata)
  • 3 oz Coppa
  • 3 oz Pancetta
  • 4 oz Parmigiano-Reggiano
  • 4 oz Pecorino Romano
  • 8 oz Fresh Mozzarella balls (Bocconcini)
  • 1 cup Marinated Artichoke Hearts
  • 1/2 cup Kalamata Olives
  • 1/2 cup Roasted Red Peppers
  • 1 loaf Crusty Italian Bread
  • 2 tbsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil
  • 1 tbsp Balsamic Glaze
  • as needed Fresh Basil Leaves

Selecting Your Meats

Choose a variety of Italian cured meats, like Prosciutto, Salami (Genoa or Sopressata), Coppa, and Pancetta. Look for high-quality meats from a reputable butcher or deli. Consider the texture and flavor profile of each meat to create a balanced selection. For example, the saltiness of prosciutto pairs well with the mildness of mozzarella.

Choosing Cheeses

Select hard and soft cheeses to complement the meats. Parmigiano-Reggiano and Pecorino Romano offer sharp, salty flavors, while fresh Mozzarella balls (Bocconcini) provide a creamy contrast. Consider adding a softer cheese like Gorgonzola for a bolder flavor.

Adding Antipasti

Include marinated artichoke hearts, Kalamata olives, and roasted red peppers to add briny and sweet notes to the board. These antipasti items provide a refreshing counterpoint to the richness of the meats and cheeses. Other options include sun-dried tomatoes, pepperoncini, or giardiniera.

Arranging the Board

Start by placing the larger items, such as the cheeses, on the board. Arrange the meats in attractive patterns, such as rolling or folding them. Scatter the antipasti items around the board to fill in the spaces. Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil and balsamic glaze for added flavor. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the charcuterie board with crusty Italian bread for dipping and enjoying the flavors. Offer a selection of wines that pair well with cured meats and cheeses, such as a dry red wine like Chianti or a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio.

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FAQ

  • Can I substitute any of the meats?

    Yes, you can substitute any of the meats with your favorites. Consider using other Italian cured meats like Mortadella, Bresaola, or Speck.
  • What if I don't have access to Italian cheeses?

    You can substitute with other hard and soft cheeses like Cheddar, Gruyere, Brie, or Goat cheese.
  • How far in advance can I prepare the charcuterie board?

    You can prepare the board a few hours in advance. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator. Add the fresh basil leaves just before serving.