Description
Learn how to artfully style salami and prosciutto to create a stunning charcuterie board perfect for entertaining. This guide walks you through folding techniques like salami roses, quarter folds, and fan folds, plus tips on assembling the board with complementary cheeses, nuts, fruits, and garnishes for an elegant presentation that impresses guests.
Ingredients
Scale
Meats
- 20–30 thin slices salami (about 8 oz total)
- 10 slices prosciutto or soppressata (optional, ~3 oz)
Accompaniments
- Crackers
- Cheeses
- Nuts
- Olives
- Fresh fruit
Garnish
- Fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme)
Tools
- Small ramekin or wine glass (for rose shape)
- Optional: skewers or toothpicks
Instructions
- Salami Rose: Fold slices of salami in half and layer them overlapping along the rim of a wine glass or small ramekin to form petals. Add 2–3 layers to create a full rose shape, then gently flip it off the glass to maintain the flower’s structure.
- Quarter Fold: Take slices of salami and fold them twice to form petal-like shapes. Stack these folded slices in small clusters to prepare for arranging on the board.
- Salami River: Line up the quarter-folded salami pieces in a flowing S-curve pattern across the charcuterie board to simulate the look of a river or natural flow.
- Fan Fold: Fold slices of salami in half and layer them in a fanned-out pattern, creating a visually appealing shape that adds texture and variety to the board.
- Ribbons (for Prosciutto): Fold long slices of prosciutto or soppressata lengthwise and loosely drape them to resemble ribboned fabric, adding elegance and softness to the meat presentation.
- Board Assembly: Begin assembling the board by placing focal pieces like cheeses and the salami roses. Surround these with the various folded salami shapes to create layers and depth.
- Fill Gaps: Use fruits, nuts, olives, and crackers to fill in any open spaces on the board, ensuring an abundant and balanced look.
- Final Garnish: Add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the board to provide color contrast, aroma, and a polished finishing touch.
Notes
- Use a sharp knife to slice meats thinly if not pre-sliced for best folding and presentation.
- Chill meats slightly before shaping to help them hold their form better.
- Experiment with different cheeses and fruits based on season and preference for personalized boards.
- Skewers or toothpicks can help secure rolled or folded meats if needed.
- Arrange board on a large wooden or slate platter to enhance rustic elegance.
- Let the board come to room temperature before serving for optimal flavor.
