Making the ultimate Italian Charcuterie Board is a popular way to impress dinner guests. To prepare a great spread, load up the board with meats, cheeses, fruits, breads and spreads that offer a satisfying blend of savory tastes and complex textures with sumptuous visual appeal. Here are some of the most delicious items to include on an Italian Charcuterie Board:
Aged Parmigiano Reggiano
Boasting a rich flavor, aged Parmigiano Reggiano has a highly granular texture and slight crunchiness that stands out on any food board.
Ricotta
Ricotta, a tasty Italian whey cheese, has a slightly sweet flavor and a creaminess that makes it perfect for dipping.
Buffalo Mozzarella
This elastic cheese made from Italian Mediterranean buffalo is called "white gold" for its exquisite flavor.
Roasted Red Peppers
On top of their nutritiousness and pleasantly crunchy texture, roasted red peppers feature a subtle tang that sets off stronger-tasting foods.
Artichoke Hearts
Tender when boiled or steamed and boasting a nutty flavor, artichoke hearts are fun to dip in cheese or serve on crostini.
Baccala Mantecato
Baccala mantecato, or creamed cod, is a creamy emulsion that tastes delicious on toast or crackers.
Andouille Sausage
A smoked sausage made with lean pork chunks, andouille comes in many forms. 'Nduja is a spicy, spreadable Italian variant of andouille that you can slather on bread or cheese.
Prosciutto
Prosciutto is a staple of any Italian charcuterie board. This thinly sliced, dry-cured ham has a salty flavor and tough texture that pairs well with everything from figs to mozzarella.
Pork Pate
A delectable paste containing ground meat and fat, pork pate contains liver, wine and spices for a strong flavor that enhances any food board.
Salami
Another charcuterie staple, salami stays fresh at room temperature for days. It makes a convenient wrap for cheese and tastes delicious on crackers.
Grilled Crostini
Crostini are the ultimate appetizer. Just about any combination of meats, cheeses and vegetables tastes good on them.
Kalamata Olives
Preserved in olive oil or wine vinegar, these olives offer a quick burst of flavor for guests who want something small.
Cherry Tomatoes
Cherry tomatoes are a healthy appetizer that you can serve plain or grilled.
Figs
No Charcuterie Board is complete without something sweet, and figs fill that niche with a subtle flavor and a tough, chewy texture.
Burrata
Burrata consists of a soft mozzarella shell and cream-and-stracciatella center. The cream bursts out when the shell is cut open, making for a sumptuous dip or spread.
Wine Pairing for Italian Charcuterie: Spumante Brut Rosè
