The Best Cheese For Antipasto: A Guide To Choosing The Perfect Cheese For Your Next Italian Meal

Antipasto is a delicious Italian appetizer that is perfect for any occasion. It is typically made with cured meats, cheeses, and vegetables, and it is often served as the first course of a meal. In this blog post, we will take a look at some of the best cheeses for antipasto. Whether you are looking for a soft cheese or a harder cheese, we have you covered. We will also give you some tips on how to choose the perfect cheese for your antipasto platter. So, without further ado, let’s get started!

Best Cheese For Antipasto

The antipasto table (or tray) in Italy typically consists of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and pickled vegetables. Antipasto is served before a meal and is typically eaten with a crusty loaf of bread and wine.

When selecting cheese for an antipasto tray, there are a few things to consider. First, think about what type of cheese you like. Some people prefer a softer cheese, while others prefer a harder cheese. Second, consider the flavor of the cheese. Some cheeses are mild, while others are stronger in flavor. Finally, consider the color of the cheese. Some cheeses are white, while others are yellow or orange.

Here is a list of the best cheeses for antipasto:

1. Parmigiano-Reggiano: This cheese is made from cow’s milk and is aged for a minimum of 12 months. It has a hard texture and a nutty flavor.

2. Pecorino Romano: This cheese is made from sheep’s milk and is aged for a minimum of 6 months. It has a hard texture and a strong, salty flavor.

3. Asiago: This cheese is made from cow’s milk and is aged for a minimum of 6 months. It has a hard texture and a mild, nutty flavor.

4. Mozzarella: This cheese is made from cow’s milk and is aged for a minimum of 2 months. It has a soft texture and a mild, milky flavor.

5. Gorgonzola: This cheese is made from cow’s milk and is aged for a minimum of 4 months. It has a soft texture and a strong, pungent flavor.

So, what is the best cheese for antipasto? It really depends on what you like. Some people prefer a harder cheese, while others prefer a softer cheese. Some people prefer a mild cheese, while others prefer a stronger cheese. The best thing to do is to try a few different cheeses and see which one you like best.

What Is The Best Cheese For An Antipasto Platter?

• 1. Mozzarella – A classic choice for an antipasto platter, mozzarella is a soft cheese with a milky, slightly sweet taste. It pairs well with cured meats, olives, and roasted vegetables.
• 2. Parmesan – This hard, aged cheese has a nutty, slightly sharp flavor that pairs well with cured meats, olives, and roasted vegetables. It is also delicious on its own or grated over pasta or salad.
• 3. Ricotta – This soft, creamy cheese is mild in flavor and has a slightly sweet undertone. It pairs well with cured meats, olives, and roasted vegetables, and can also be used to make cheese-based dishes such as cannoli or cheesecake.
• 4. Gorgonzola – This blue-veined cheese has a slightly sharp, pungent flavor that pairs well with cured meats, olives, and roasted vegetables. It is also delicious on its own or crumbled over pasta or salad.
• 5. Feta – This crumbly, salty cheese is made from sheep’s milk or goat’s milk.

What Are Some Other Types Of Cheese That Go Well On An Antipasto Platter?

In addition to mozzarella and provolone, many other cheeses pair well with antipasto ingredients. Here are a few options to consider:

1. Ricotta: This soft, mild cheese is a common ingredient in many Italian dishes. It is typically made from whey, making it lower in fat and calories than other cheeses. Ricotta pairs well with antipasto ingredients such as roasted peppers, olives, and salami.

2. Gorgonzola: This blue cheese is sharp and tangy, with a rich, creamy texture. Gorgonzola pairs well with antipasto ingredients such as figs, honey, and walnuts.

3. Feta: This crumbly cheese is made from sheep’s or goat’s milk. It is tangy and salty, and pairs well with antipasto ingredients such as tomatoes, cucumbers, and olives.

4. Parmesan: This hard, aged cheese is nutty and sharp. It pairs well with antipasto ingredients such as roasted vegetables, cured meats, and olives.

5. Fontina: This semi-soft cheese is mild and creamy. It pairs well with antipasto ingredients such as roasted vegetables, cured meats, and olives.

No matter what types of cheese you choose for your antipasto platter, it’s important to let the flavors speak for themselves. Serve the cheese at room temperature, and pair it with a variety of ingredients to create a delicious and visually appealing appetizer.

What Is The Best Way To Serve Cheese On An Antipasto Platter?

The best way to serve cheese on an antipasto platter is to first select a variety of cheeses that are suitable for serving at room temperature. Then, place each type of cheese on a separate plate or board, and arrange them in order of mildest to strongest flavor. Next, garnish the cheese with a selection of fruits, nuts, and crackers, and place them on the antipasto platter. Finally, add any additional items such as cured meats, olives, and pickles to the platter, and serve it with a sharp knife for guests to cut the cheese themselves.

What Are Some Tips For Making An Antipasto Platter?

An antipasto platter is a delicious way to start a meal or enjoy as a light lunch. Here are some tips for making one:

1. Choose a variety of meats, cheeses, and veggies. An antipasto platter should have a variety of flavors, textures, and colors. Some good options include prosciutto, salami, pepperoni, a variety of cheeses (such as mozzarella, provolone, and parmesan), roasted red peppers, artichoke hearts, and olives.

2. Use quality ingredients. When it comes to meats and cheeses, it’s worth spending a little extra money on high-quality ingredients. This can make a big difference in the flavor of your antipasto platter.

3. Consider using a theme. If you’re feeling creative, consider choosing a theme for your antipasto platter. For example, you could make a Mediterranean-themed platter with feta cheese, hummus, olives, and pita bread.

4. Arrange your ingredients artfully. Your antipasto platter should be visually appealing as well as delicious. Arrange your ingredients on a platter or in a serving dish to create a visually appealing display.

5. Serve it with a variety of crackers and bread.

What Are Some Other Toppings That Go Well On An Antipasto Platter?

In addition to meats, cheeses, and olives, there are many other delicious toppings that go well on an antipasto platter. Here are some ideas:

1. Roasted vegetables such as bell peppers, eggplant, and zucchini add a nice pop of color and flavor to the platter.

2. Fresh fruits such as grapes, figs, and melon provide a refreshing contrast to the savory ingredients.

3. Marinated artichoke hearts, mushrooms, and sun-dried tomatoes add a touch of acidity and texture.

4. Nuts such as almonds, pistachios, and walnuts add crunch and healthy fats.

5. Cured meats such as prosciutto, salami, and pepperoni add savory richness.

6. Breadsticks, crackers, and bread provide a nice base for the toppings and can help to soak up the delicious flavors of the antipasto platter.

Experiment with different combinations to find your favorite toppings and create the perfect antipasto platter for your next gathering.

Wrap-Up

Upgrade your charcuterie board with our top picks for the best cheese for antipasto. This flavorful assortment will elevate your next dinner party or happy hour gathering. From creamy and nutty to sharp and tangy, these cheeses are sure to please any palate. So what are you waiting for? Start building your perfect cheese plate today!