Save to Pinterest A stunning gourmet appetizer featuring delicate prosciutto roses, artisan cheeses, and vibrant accompaniments, artfully arranged for an elegant and shareable starter.
This board has become my go-to for gatherings where I want something impressive yet simple to prepare.
Ingredients
- Charcuterie: 180 g thinly sliced prosciutto, 100 g sliced soppressata or salami
- Cheese: 120 g fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini), 120 g wedge of aged Parmigiano-Reggiano broken into chunks, 100 g creamy goat cheese formed into quenelles or small scoops
- Fruits & Vegetables: 1 cup seedless red grapes, 1 cup fresh strawberries halved, 1/2 cup dried apricots, 1/2 cup mixed olives (green and black) pitted, 1/2 cup marinated artichoke hearts halved
- Accompaniments: 1/3 cup honey or fig preserves, 1/2 cup toasted walnuts or Marcona almonds, 100 g gluten-free crackers or crostini, Fresh basil leaves for garnish, Edible flowers (optional) for decoration
Instructions
- Create prosciutto roses:
- Roll 2–3 slices of prosciutto into loose spirals then gently fan the edges to resemble rose petals. Repeat to form 6–8 roses.
- Arrange bouquet:
- Arrange the prosciutto roses in a bouquet cluster on a large board or platter.
- Place cheeses:
- Artfully place the cheeses beside the roses using spoons to form goat cheese quenelles if desired.
- Add salami slices:
- Add the salami slices folding or rolling them for visual interest.
- Fill with fruits and vegetables:
- Fill in spaces with grapes, strawberries, dried apricots, olives, and artichoke hearts distributing colors evenly.
- Add preserves:
- Spoon honey or fig preserves into a small bowl and place on the board.
- Scatter nuts and crackers:
- Scatter toasted nuts and lay out crackers or crostini.
- Garnish bouquet:
- Garnish the bouquet with fresh basil leaves and edible flowers for a lush, floral effect.
- Serve:
- Serve immediately allowing guests to assemble bites as desired.
Save to Pinterest This appetizer board always sparks conversation at family gatherings and brings everyone together.
Pairings
Pair this board with a crisp Prosecco or Sauvignon Blanc for a perfect balance.
Storage Tips
Prepare the prosciutto roses and cheeses up to a day in advance and assemble just before serving.
Variations
Swap meats and cheeses according to preference and try adding fresh figs or pears when in season.
Save to Pinterest Assemble your board with care to create a visually stunning appetizer that tastes as good as it looks.
Common Recipe Questions
- → How do I shape prosciutto into roses?
Roll 2–3 slices of thin prosciutto into loose spirals, then gently fan out the edges to mimic rose petals. Repeat to create multiple roses.
- → What cheeses pair well with prosciutto in this arrangement?
Fresh mozzarella balls, aged Parmigiano-Reggiano chunks, and creamy goat cheese quenelles complement the prosciutto beautifully.
- → Can I substitute the fruits and nuts used?
Yes, fresh figs, pears, or cherries work well, and you can swap toasted walnuts for Marcona almonds or other nuts according to preference.
- → How should I serve the accompaniments like preserves and nuts?
Place honey or fig preserves in a small bowl on the board, and scatter toasted nuts and gluten-free crackers around for easy access.
- → What garnishes enhance the presentation?
Fresh basil leaves and optional edible flowers provide a lush, floral effect, elevating the board's visual appeal.
- → Is this platter suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes, using gluten-free crackers or crostini ensures the board remains gluten-free friendly.