The Perfect Pairing: Cured Meats & Cheeses
Cured Meats & Cheese Pairings: The Perfect Italian Duo
When it comes to Italian entertaining, few combinations are as iconic—or as irresistible—as cured meats and cheese. The interplay of textures and flavors in these pairings is a cornerstone of Italy’s rich culinary tradition. Whether you’re creating an antipasto platter, assembling snacks for a wine night, or simply enjoying an elevated snack, understanding how to pair cured meats with cheese will take your spread to the next level.At Broders’ Cucina Italiana, we’re passionate about authentic Italian flavors, so we’ve rounded up some of our favorite pairings to inspire your next gathering.
The Art of Pairing Cured Meats and Cheese
The goal of pairing is to create balance. Bold, salty cured meats can complement creamy or mild cheeses, while rich, nutty cheeses shine alongside more delicate meats. When crafting your plate, think about:
The Art of Pairing Cured Meats and Cheese
The goal of pairing is to create balance. Bold, salty cured meats can complement creamy or mild cheeses, while rich, nutty cheeses shine alongside more delicate meats. When crafting your plate, think about:Rich, creamy cheeses love acidic or tangy jams to cut through the richness.
Contrast: Pair bold flavors with more subtle ones for balance.
Texture: Combine creamy cheeses with chewier meats or crumbly cheeses with silky slices.
Regional Pairings: What grows together, goes together. When in doubt, pair meat & cheeses from the same region- they’ve been perfected together over centuries.
1. Prosciutto di Parma & Parmigiano Reggiano
A classic pairing that embodies Italian simplicity. Prosciutto di Parma, with its buttery texture and delicate saltiness, is a natural match for Parmigiano Reggiano’s nutty, crystalline complexity. This duo is perfect for grazing or topping a fresh slice of focaccia.
Serving Tip: Add a drizzle of honey or balsamic glaze to tie it all together.
2. Salami & Pecorino Toscano
The bold, savory flavors of Italian salami—whether it’s Finocchiona (with fennel seeds) or spicy Soppressata—are complemented beautifully by the slightly sharp, earthy flavor of Pecorino Toscano. This pairing is rich, hearty, and endlessly satisfying.
Serving Tip: Pair with a crisp white wine like Vermentino to refresh the palate.
3. Mortadella & Taleggio
Mortadella’s creamy, delicate flavor and smooth texture pairs wonderfully with Taleggio, a soft, slightly tangy cheese with a buttery consistency. Together, they create a melt-in-your-mouth experience that feels indulgent yet approachable.
Serving Tip: Serve with fresh bread or grissini (Italian breadsticks) for the perfect bite.
4. Speck & Asiago
Speck, a lightly smoked cured ham, brings a unique depth of flavor that pairs beautifully with the mild nuttiness of Asiago cheese. This duo strikes a perfect balance between savory and creamy, making it a favorite for charcuterie boards.
Serving Tip: Add sliced apples or pears for a sweet contrast.
5. Bresaola & Gorgonzola Dolce
Bresaola, an air-dried, lean cured beef, has a delicate, slightly sweet flavor that pairs exceptionally well with the creamy, tangy richness of Gorgonzola Dolce. This pairing is light yet decadent, perfect for a more refined palate.
Serving Tip: Garnish with arugula and a squeeze of lemon for an elevated antipasto dish.
6. Capicola & Provolone
Capicola, also known as coppa, is a spiced, marbled cured pork that bursts with flavor. Pair it with provolone—either mild or sharp, depending on your preference—for a classic Italian combination that’s as comforting as it is delicious.
Serving Tip: Layer on a crusty Italian roll for an unbeatable sandwich.
Crafting the Perfect Cured Meat & Cheese Board
Want to impress your guests with a well-balanced antipasto platter? Follow these tips:
Variety: Include a mix of textures and flavors - soft, hard, mild, bold.
Accents: Add accompaniments like olives, marinated artichokes, dried fruits & nuts.
Presentation: Arrange your board with meats and cheeses sliced thinly, making it easy for guests to enjoy
Wine Pairing: Offer a selection of Italian wines, such as Chianti, Barbara or Prosecco, to round out the experience.
Shop the Best at Broders’ Cucina Italiana
At Broders’ Cucina Italiana, we carry an incredible selection of imported Italian cheeses and cured meats to help you craft the perfect pairings. From silky Prosciutto di Parma to bold Pecorino Romano, our cheese case is stocked with everything you need for an authentic Italian experience.Stop by today to explore our selection and get expert advice on building your next cheese and meat platter. Your table (and your taste buds) will thank you!
Buon appetito!