Save A stunning gourmet appetizer featuring delicate prosciutto roses, artisan cheeses, and vibrant accompaniments, artfully arranged for an elegant and shareable starter.
This recipe was an instant hit at our last gathering, sparking compliments not only for its taste but also for its beautiful presentation.
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 the prosciutto roses:
- Arrange the prosciutto roses in a bouquet cluster on a large board or platter
- Place the cheeses:
- Artfully place the cheeses beside the roses using spoons to form goat cheese quenelles if desired
- Add the salami slices:
- Folding or rolling them for visual interest
- Fill in spaces:
- With grapes strawberries dried apricots olives and artichoke hearts distributing colors evenly
- Spoon 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:
- With fresh basil leaves and edible flowers for a lush floral effect
- Serve immediately:
- Allowing guests to assemble bites as desired
Save This platter always brings our family together as everyone picks their favorite bites and shares stories around the table.
Notes
For extra flair use a variety of cured meats and cheeses Swap fruits according to seasonality such as fresh figs pears or cherries Pair with a crisp Prosecco or Sauvignon Blanc
Required Tools
Large serving board or platter Cheese knives Small bowls for spreads Spoons for cheese and preserves Small tongs optional for serving
Allergen Information
Contains milk cheese tree nuts walnuts Marcona almonds Prosciutto and some cheeses may contain traces of gluten or other allergens Check labels if needed Gluten-free crackers recommended for gluten intolerance
Save This elegant appetizer is perfect for any special occasion and invites creativity in presentation and pairing.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do you shape prosciutto into roses?
Roll 2–3 thin slices of prosciutto into loose spirals and gently fan the edges to mimic rose petals, forming 6–8 roses.
- → What types of cheeses complement the prosciutto bouquet?
Fresh mozzarella balls, aged Parmigiano-Reggiano chunks, and creamy goat cheese quenelles offer a balanced mix of textures and flavors.
- → Can the fruit selections be varied?
Yes, seasonal fruits like fresh figs, pears, or cherries can be substituted to add different colors and tastes.
- → Are gluten-free crackers necessary?
Gluten-free crackers or crostini are recommended especially if guests have gluten sensitivities, ensuring everyone can enjoy the platter.
- → What beverages pair well with this board?
A crisp Prosecco or Sauvignon Blanc enhances the flavors, complementing the cured meats and cheeses beautifully.