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 is one of my favorite appetizer boards to serve at gatherings because it looks impressive yet is easy to assemble and customize.
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 salami slices:
- Add the salami slices folding or rolling them for visual interest.
- Fill in spaces:
- 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:
- Garnish the bouquet with fresh basil leaves and edible flowers for a lush, floral effect.
- Serve immediately:
- Serve immediately allowing guests to assemble bites as desired.
Save to Pinterest My family always loves gathering around this board and sharing stories as we enjoy every bite together.
Pairing Suggestions
Pairs beautifully with crisp Prosecco or Sauvignon Blanc to enhance the flavors.
Seasonal Variations
Swap out fruits according to seasonality such as fresh figs, pears, or cherries for a fresh twist.
Serving Tips
Use a large wooden board or platter to display the bouquet making it easy to share and approachable.
Save to Pinterest Assemble shortly before serving to keep everything fresh and visually appealing.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do you create the prosciutto roses?
Roll 2–3 slices of prosciutto into loose spirals, then gently fan the edges to mimic rose petals, forming 6–8 individual roses.
- → What cheeses complement this board best?
Fresh mozzarella balls, aged Parmigiano-Reggiano chunks, and creamy goat cheese quenelles work harmoniously with the cured meats and fruits.
- → Can the fruits be substituted seasonally?
Yes, fresh figs, pears, or cherries make excellent seasonal alternatives that maintain the balance of sweetness and freshness.
- → What nuts pair well on this board?
Toasted walnuts or Marcona almonds provide a satisfying crunch and nutty flavor, enhancing the overall texture.
- → What are some suitable beverage pairings?
Crisp sparkling wines like Prosecco or Sauvignon Blanc complement the saltiness and richness of the board's components.