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Perfect Italian Charcuterie Board Recipe with Marinated Mozzarella

Italian charcuterie board - featured image

An easy and impressive Italian charcuterie board featuring marinated mozzarella, cured meats, cheeses, and fresh accompaniments. Perfect for casual gatherings or special occasions.

Ingredients

Scale
  • Fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine size)
  • ½ cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 cloves fresh garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh basil leaves, torn
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • ¼ teaspoon red chili flakes (optional)
  • Salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste
  • Prosciutto slices
  • Salami (finocchiona or spicy soppressata)
  • Capicola or spicy coppa
  • Parmigiano-Reggiano chunks
  • Aged provolone slices
  • Marinated olives (Kalamata or Castelvetrano)
  • Roasted red peppers
  • Artichoke hearts
  • Fresh cherry tomatoes or grape tomatoes
  • Crunchy breadsticks or sliced baguette
  • Honey or fig jam
  • Optional: toasted nuts like almonds or walnuts

Instructions

  1. Drain the fresh mozzarella balls and pat dry with a paper towel.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together ½ cup extra virgin olive oil, minced garlic, torn fresh basil leaves, dried oregano, red chili flakes (if using), salt, and freshly cracked black pepper.
  3. Place the mozzarella balls in a shallow container and pour the marinade over them.
  4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, ideally 3 to 4 hours, or overnight for deeper flavor.
  5. Arrange prosciutto, salami, and capicola slices on a plate, folding them gently to create height and texture.
  6. Cut chunks of Parmigiano-Reggiano and slice the provolone into bite-sized pieces.
  7. Drain olives, roasted peppers, and artichoke hearts.
  8. Wash and dry cherry tomatoes.
  9. Slice the baguette into ½-inch thick pieces and toast lightly if preferred.
  10. Start by placing small bowls with the marinated mozzarella and olives on the serving board.
  11. Arrange meats and cheeses in clusters around the bowls.
  12. Fill in gaps with roasted peppers, artichokes, and tomatoes.
  13. Add bread slices or breadsticks along the edges for easy grabbing.
  14. Finish with a drizzle of honey or a small dish of fig jam for a sweet contrast.

Notes

Marinate mozzarella for at least 1 hour for best flavor; ideally 3-4 hours or overnight. Let cured meats come to room temperature before serving. Use small clusters for visual appeal and balance textures. Avoid overloading with too much oil or jam. Bread can be toasted before serving. Store leftovers properly to maintain freshness.

Nutrition

Keywords: Italian charcuterie board, marinated mozzarella, appetizer, easy party food, cured meats, cheese platter, Italian appetizer