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 appetizer board has always been a showstopper at my gatherings, sparking compliments and lively conversation around the table.
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:
- Place 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:
- Fold or roll them for visual interest.
- Fill in spaces:
- Add grapes, strawberries, dried apricots, olives, and artichoke hearts distributing colors evenly.
- Spoon preserves:
- Put honey or fig preserves into a small bowl and place on the board.
- Scatter nuts and crackers:
- Lay out toasted nuts and crackers or crostini.
- Garnish bouquet:
- Add fresh basil leaves and edible flowers for a lush floral effect.
- Serve immediately:
- Allow guests to assemble bites as desired.
Save to Pinterest My family loves gathering around the board to pick and choose their favorite combinations, turning eating into a fun social experience.
Required Tools
Large serving board or platter, cheese knives, small bowls for spreads, spoons for cheese and preserves, and small tongs for serving.
Allergen Information
Contains milk (cheese), tree nuts (walnuts and Marcona almonds); some prosciutto and cheeses may have trace gluten - check labels carefully.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: 320 calories, 18 g total fat, 19 g carbohydrates, 18 g protein.
Save to Pinterest
This elegant platter is the perfect appetizer to impress guests with minimal cooking required.
Recipe Q&A
- → How do you create the prosciutto roses?
Roll 2–3 thin slices of prosciutto into loose spirals and gently fan the edges to resemble rose petals, repeating to form multiple roses.
- → Which cheeses pair well on this board?
Fresh mozzarella balls, aged Parmigiano-Reggiano chunks, and creamy goat cheese quenelles complement the prosciutto beautifully.
- → What fruits enhance the flavor and presentation?
Seedless red grapes, fresh strawberries, and dried apricots add sweetness and vibrant colors to balance savory ingredients.
- → What accompaniments add texture to the board?
Toasted walnuts or Marcona almonds and gluten-free crostini provide crunchy contrast to the soft cheeses and cured meats.
- → Can this board be customized seasonally?
Yes, swap fruits like figs, pears, or cherries based on seasonality to keep the platter fresh and visually appealing.
- → How should this board be served?
Arrange all elements on a large serving board and garnish with fresh basil and edible flowers. Serve immediately for guests to assemble bites.