Prosciutto, the beloved Italian dry-cured ham, is a delicacy enjoyed by many around the world. Its salty, savory flavor and delicate texture make it a versatile ingredient that pairs beautifully with a variety of cheeses. But what cheese goes well with prosciutto? In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the best cheeses to pair with prosciutto, offering ideas for delicious combinations that will elevate your charcuterie boards, appetizers, and more.
What Cheese Goes Well with Prosciutto?
Classic Cheese Pairings
Mozzarella
Mozzarella is a classic choice for pairing with prosciutto. Its mild flavor and creamy texture complement the salty, savory taste of the ham without overpowering it.
Best Ways to Pair Mozzarella with Prosciutto:
| Dish | Ingredients | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Caprese Salad | Prosciutto, fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, basil, olive oil | Fresh and light; a perfect summer dish |
| Prosciutto-wrapped Mozzarella Sticks | Prosciutto, mozzarella sticks | Great for appetizers; bake or fry for best results |
| Prosciutto and Mozzarella Panini | Prosciutto, mozzarella, ciabatta bread | Grilled to perfection; melty and delicious |
Parmesan
Parmesan cheese, with its sharp, nutty flavor, provides a perfect contrast to the rich, salty prosciutto.
Best Ways to Pair Parmesan with Prosciutto:
| Dish | Ingredients | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Prosciutto and Parmesan Crostini | Prosciutto, shaved Parmesan, baguette slices, olive oil | Simple and elegant appetizer |
| Parmesan and Prosciutto Pasta | Prosciutto, grated Parmesan, pasta, garlic, olive oil | Flavorful and easy-to-make main dish |
| Prosciutto and Parmesan Salad | Prosciutto, shaved Parmesan, arugula, lemon vinaigrette | Light and refreshing salad |
Gorgonzola
Gorgonzola’s strong, tangy flavor pairs beautifully with the savory taste of prosciutto, creating a complex and delightful combination.
Best Ways to Pair Gorgonzola with Prosciutto:
| Dish | Ingredients | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Prosciutto and Gorgonzola Crostini | Prosciutto, Gorgonzola, baguette slices, honey | Sweet and savory; great for entertaining |
| Gorgonzola and Prosciutto Pizza | Prosciutto, Gorgonzola, pizza dough, arugula | Bold flavors; perfect for gourmet pizza night |
| Prosciutto and Gorgonzola Salad | Prosciutto, crumbled Gorgonzola, mixed greens, walnuts, balsamic vinaigrette | Rich and flavorful salad |
Soft Cheese Pairings
Brie
Brie’s creamy, buttery texture and mild flavor make it an excellent pairing with prosciutto.
Best Ways to Pair Brie with Prosciutto:
| Dish | Ingredients | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Prosciutto-wrapped Brie | Prosciutto, Brie cheese | Perfect for appetizers; bake until gooey and warm |
| Prosciutto and Brie Sandwich | Prosciutto, Brie, baguette, fig jam | Sweet and savory combination |
| Brie and Prosciutto Tart | Prosciutto, Brie, puff pastry, caramelized onions | Elegant and delicious tart |
Goat Cheese
Goat cheese, with its tangy and slightly tart flavor, provides a wonderful contrast to the savory prosciutto.
Best Ways to Pair Goat Cheese with Prosciutto:
| Dish | Ingredients | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Prosciutto and Goat Cheese Stuffed Dates | Prosciutto, goat cheese, Medjool dates | Sweet, savory, and tangy; great for parties |
| Goat Cheese and Prosciutto Salad | Prosciutto, crumbled goat cheese, mixed greens, pear slices, balsamic vinaigrette | Light and refreshing salad |
| Prosciutto and Goat Cheese Crostini | Prosciutto, goat cheese, baguette slices, honey | Simple and delicious appetizer |
Hard Cheese Pairings
Manchego
Manchego, a Spanish cheese with a firm texture and nutty flavor, pairs wonderfully with prosciutto.
Best Ways to Pair Manchego with Prosciutto:
| Dish | Ingredients | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Prosciutto and Manchego Tapas | Prosciutto, Manchego cheese, marcona almonds, olives | Perfect for a tapas platter |
| Manchego and Prosciutto Sandwich | Prosciutto, Manchego, ciabatta bread, roasted peppers | Bold and flavorful sandwich |
| Prosciutto and Manchego Salad | Prosciutto, shaved Manchego, arugula, lemon vinaigrette | Light and zesty salad |
Pecorino Romano
Pecorino Romano, with its sharp and salty flavor, pairs excellently with the savory notes of prosciutto.
Best Ways to Pair Pecorino Romano with Prosciutto:
| Dish | Ingredients | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Prosciutto and Pecorino Crostini | Prosciutto, shaved Pecorino, baguette slices, olive oil | Simple and sophisticated appetizer |
| Pecorino and Prosciutto Pasta | Prosciutto, grated Pecorino, pasta, black pepper, olive oil | Rich and flavorful pasta dish |
| Prosciutto and Pecorino Salad | Prosciutto, shaved Pecorino, mixed greens, lemon vinaigrette | Bright and tangy salad |
Gourmet Cheese Pairings
Taleggio
Taleggio, with its creamy texture and robust, tangy flavor, pairs beautifully with prosciutto.
Best Ways to Pair Taleggio with Prosciutto:
| Dish | Ingredients | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Prosciutto and Taleggio Crostini | Prosciutto, Taleggio cheese, baguette slices, honey | Sweet and savory; perfect for appetizers |
| Taleggio and Prosciutto Pizza | Prosciutto, Taleggio, pizza dough, fresh figs | Gourmet pizza with complex flavors |
| Prosciutto and Taleggio Salad | Prosciutto, Taleggio, arugula, balsamic glaze | Rich and flavorful salad |
Fontina
Fontina’s creamy texture and mild, nutty flavor make it an ideal pairing with prosciutto.
Best Ways to Pair Fontina with Prosciutto:
| Dish | Ingredients | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Prosciutto and Fontina Grilled Cheese | Prosciutto, Fontina, sourdough bread | Gourmet twist on a classic sandwich |
| Fontina and Prosciutto Pizza | Prosciutto, Fontina, pizza dough, fresh basil | Melty and delicious pizza |
| Prosciutto and Fontina Tart | Prosciutto, Fontina, puff pastry, caramelized onions | Elegant and savory tart |
Conclusion
Pairing prosciutto with the right cheese can create a symphony of flavors that elevates your dining experience. From classic pairings like mozzarella and Parmesan to gourmet choices like Taleggio and Fontina, the possibilities are endless. Experiment with these combinations to find your perfect match and enjoy the delightful harmony of flavors that prosciutto and cheese can bring to your table.
FAQs
Can I pair prosciutto with blue cheese?
Yes, prosciutto pairs well with blue cheese varieties like Gorgonzola, as the strong, tangy flavor of the cheese complements the savory taste of the prosciutto.
What fruits go well with prosciutto and cheese?
Fruits like figs, pears, and melon pair wonderfully with prosciutto and cheese, adding a sweet contrast to the savory and creamy flavors.
Can I use prosciutto in pasta dishes?
Absolutely! Prosciutto adds a delicious, savory element to pasta dishes, and pairs well with cheeses like Parmesan, Pecorino Romano, and Fontina.
What wines pair well with prosciutto and cheese?
Wines like Pinot Grigio, Chianti, and Prosecco pair beautifully with prosciutto and cheese, enhancing the flavors of both.
How should I serve prosciutto and cheese at a party?
Serve prosciutto and cheese on a charcuterie board with a variety of cheeses, fruits, nuts, and crackers for an elegant and tasty presentation.