General Considerations of Pairing Cheese & Prosciutto
When it comes to choosing the right cheese to accompany prosciutto, texture, flavor, and heat are just a few of the factors to consider. While the combinations are endless, there are a few common elements that experts recommend in the ultimate pairing. Hard cheeses, which are usually aged and very flavorful, work better than softer varieties such as cream cheese and cottage cheese. The fact that the prosciutto is already salty means that a salty cheese such as feta will overpower the flavor profile. In general, the stronger the cheese, the less likely it is to work well with prosciutto.
One way to ensure a well-paired pairing of cheese and prosciutto is to consider the region and provenance. Prosciutto di Parma, for instance, pairs best with a cheese from the same region, such as Piave Vecchio or Parmigiano Reggiano. Similarly, the French fromage de Tete, which is made from cow’s milk, pairs beautifully with Prosciutto di Parma. Other Italian varieties that tend to work well with prosciutto include Taleggio and Provolone.
In addition, certain varieties of goat cheese work wonderfully with prosciutto. Look for a mild, creamy cheese with an even texture, such as chevre or ricotta salata. A blue cheese such as Gorgonzola can also work well when used sparingly. It’s important to look for a cheese that isn’t too strong and doesn’t overpower the delicacy of the prosciutto.
Experts also suggest cutting the cheese into small cubes or slices. Not only does it look much better when served in a dish, but it also allows for a more balanced and consistent flavor profile when chosen with the ideal cheese for prosciutto. Lastly, white wine is generally considered to be the best pairing for prosciutto and cheese, although a light, dry red can also work in some cases.
Five Recommended Cheeses for Prosciutto
The recommended five cheeses to pair with prosciutto are: Piave Vecchio, Taleggio, Provolone, Ricotta Salata, and Chevre. Of these, Piave Vecchio is a semi-hard cheese made from cow’s milk with a sharp, yet delicate, flavor. Taleggio is a semi-soft cheese made from cow’s milk with a nutty, sweet flavor. Provolone is a hard cheese made from cow’s milk and aged for a minimum of six months. Ricotta Salata is a hard cheese made from sheep’s milk with a sweet, earthy flavor. Chevre is a mild, creamy goat cheese with a tangy, slightly salty flavor.
Each of these cheeses pairs wonderfully with prosciutto when served with a light garnish or accompaniment. For instance, Piave Vecchio is best served spread on pieces of rustic bread, while Taleggio pairs nicely with a light salad of rocket, radicchio, and extra-virgin olive oil. Provolone is typically served with figs and slices of crusty bread, while Ricotta Salata pairs nicely with toasted walnuts and honeycomb. Chevre also works beautifully with seasonal fruits and a drizzle of balsamic glaze.
Tips for Creating an Appetizing Plate of Prosciutto & Cheese
When serving a plate of prosciutto and cheese, it’s important to remember that presentation is key. Start by arranging the cheese and prosciutto in an aesthetically pleasing pattern—alternating the types of cheeses for visual interest. If possible, try to select different colors of cheese, such as a white, yellow, and orange variety. Next, add a garnish such as nuts or olives to give the plate a finishing touch. Lastly, create a simple dipping sauce by combining extra-virgin olive oil, minced garlic, and a few drops of lemon juice.
When creating a plate of prosciutto and cheese for entertaining, it’s a good idea to provide a variety of cheeses. A cheese board filled with different types of cheese, such as Crescenza, Manchego, and Asiago, will give guests an opportunity to sample a range of flavors and textures. You can also create your own custom board with a selection of regular and specialty cheeses, allowing guests to create their own personalized prosciutto and cheese plate.
Finally, don’t forget to provide an array of accompaniments for your guests to enjoy. This can range from seasonal fruit and nuts to crackers, chutneys, and jams. Have fun experimenting with different flavor and texture combinations to create an appetizing plate of prosciutto and cheese.
Versatility & Applications of Prosciutto & Cheese
Prosciutto and cheese make a fantastic accompaniment to Italian dishes such as pizza and focaccia. Similarly, the delicious combination can be added to pastas, sauces, and salads. Try adding a few slices of prosciutto and a sprinkle of Parmigiano Reggiano to a simple spaghetti Bolognese for an added depth of flavor. Or, use thinly sliced prosciutto and Taleggio to create a delicious calzone. Infusing dishes with the salty richness of prosciutto and the creamy sweetness of cheese is a surefire way to make any Italian recipe even more enjoyable.
The delicious combination of prosciutto and cheese also makes a wonderful appetizer. Stack a few slices of prosciutto onto a piece of lightly toasted bread then top with a slice of cheese and a dollop of your favorite condiment. For a more complex flavor profile, top your tartines with a heavenly combination of Taleggio cheese, caramelized onions, and truffle oil.
Prosciutto and cheese can also be used to make an exciting and flavorful sandwich. Simply layer a few slices of prosciutto with a few slices of your favorite cheese, such as Provolone, onto a French baguette for a scrumptious meal. Sprinkle a pinch of salt and black pepper on top for an added layer of flavor.
Health Benefits of Consuming Prosciutto & Cheese
While it’s true that prosciutto and cheese are not the healthiest of foods, they can be part of a healthy diet. Prosciutto is high in protein and low in fat, making it a great source of lean protein. It also contains some important minerals, including selenium, zinc, and iron. Cheese, on the other hand, contains a good amount of calcium, protein, and vitamin A. Eating a moderate amount of prosciutto and cheese can help to boost energy levels and strengthen the immune system.
It’s important to remember, however, that prosciutto and cheese should be consumed in moderation. Eating too much of either can lead to weight gain and should be avoided by those watching their calorie intake. While the rich, salty flavor of prosciutto and cheese can often make it difficult to control portions, experts recommend limiting oneself to about two ounces per day.
Conclusion
When it comes to choosing the right cheese to pair with prosciutto, there are a few general considerations to bear in mind. Hard cheeses such as Piave Vecchio and Taleggio are among the most popular choices, while goat cheeses such as Chevre and Ricotta Salata also pair wonderfully with prosciutto. To ensure an appetizing presentation of the dish, experts suggest cutting cheese into small cubes or slices, and adding a few accompaniments such as olives, nuts, or seasonal fruits. Finally, prosciutto and cheese can be added to a range of Italian dishes for a depth of flavor, although it’s important to remember to consume in moderation for optimal health benefits.
