Randy Chandler
Salami is a popular sausage with an intense flavour. It is typically salty, dry, and highly seasoned, with strong flavours resulting from the curing process. There are many types of cheese that complement salami, including cheddar, Swiss, mozzarella, provolone, and Parmesan. A good rule of thumb is to pair a strong cheese with a strong salami, and a milder cheese with a milder salami. For example, the sharpness of cheddar helps to offset the richness of salami, while the sweetness of mozzarella provides a nice contrast to the saltiness of salami.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Cheese type | American, Asiago, Blue, Brie, Camembert, Cheddar, Chevre, Feta, Goat, Gouda, Gruyere, Havarti, Mozzarella, Muenster, Parmesan, Parmigiano-Reggiano, Pepper Jack, Provolone, Roquefort, Swiss |
| Salami type | Calabria, Classic Genoa, Milano, Napolitano, Pepperoni, Salami with truffles, Soppressata, Toscano |
| Texture | Coarse grind, crumbly, curd pulled, dry, firm, hard, semi-hard, semi-soft, soft, supple |
| Flavour | Bold, buttery, caramel, creamy, earthy, fruity, mild, nutty, pungent, salty, sharp, spicy, tangy, sweet |
| Spices | Black peppercorn, fennel, grappa, picante spices, red wine, white wine |
| Other foods to pair with | Artichoke paste, basil, butter sea salt crackers, cantaloupe melons, cashews, cheese crackers, cornichons, crackers, grapes, figs, jalapenos, olives, pistachios, rustic bakery organic crackers, sourdough flatbread, tomatoes, tomato or jalapeno side dishes |
Explore related products
What You'll Learn
Salami and cheese sandwiches
For example, a sharp cheddar pairs well with salami as the sharpness of the cheddar offsets the richness of the salami. Other strong cheeses that go well with salami include Asiago, Parmesan, and Manchego. These hard cheeses have strong, nutty flavours that can stand up to the bold taste of salami.
If you're looking for a milder cheese to pair with your salami sandwich, mozzarella is a good option. The sweetness of the mozzarella provides a nice contrast to the saltiness of the salami. Another mild cheese that goes well with salami is provolone, which is a curd-pulled cheese with a mild flavour. This combination is commonly found in classic Italian delis.
Other types of cheese that can be considered for salami sandwiches include Swiss cheese, American cheese, Gruyere, and goat cheese. When choosing a cheese, it's important to consider the overall flavour profile you want to achieve and to ensure that the cheese is fresh and of good quality.
In addition to the type of cheese, the type of salami and other sandwich ingredients can also be varied to create different flavour combinations. For example, a cold salami and cheese sandwich typically uses a hard salami like pepperoni and a sharp cheese like cheddar, along with lettuce, tomato, and onion. On the other hand, a hot salami cheese sandwich might use fresh kalamata olive bread, dijon mustard, dry salami, and cheese, toasted or baked until the cheese is melted.
The Perfect Pairings for Your Grilled Cheese Sandwich
You may want to see also
Salami and cheese crackers
For a strong cheese and salami combination, a sharp cheddar is a good choice. The sharpness of the cheddar offsets the richness of the salami and the two flavours complement each other. For a milder option, mozzarella is a good choice as its sweetness will provide a nice contrast to the saltiness of the salami.
Other popular choices for salami and cheese crackers include Swiss, provolone, Gruyere, Parmesan, and blue cheese. Salami is also commonly paired with Asiago, a hard cheese with a nutty and slightly fruity flavour.
When it comes to crackers, a sturdy variety that can hold the weight of the salami and cheese is best. Some good options include Carr’s Table Water Crackers, sourdough flatbread crackers, Wheat Thins, and crisps from Raincoast.
The Perfect Cheese and Cracker Tray: A Guide
You may want to see also
Salami and cheese charcuterie boards
When creating a salami and cheese charcuterie board, it's important to choose a variety of cheeses and meats, as well as some accompaniments and crackers. Here are some tips to help you create a delicious and visually appealing salami and cheese charcuterie board:
Choose a Variety of Cheeses:
Select a mix of hard and soft cheeses, as well as cheeses made from different types of milk (cow, sheep, or goat). It's a good idea to include at least one familiar cheese that your guests will recognise and feel comfortable trying. Here are some cheese options that pair well with salami:
- Cheddar (white or orange)
- Swiss
- Mozzarella
- Provolone
- Gouda
- Gruyere
- Parmesan
- Brie
- Goat Cheese
- Blue Cheese
- Havarti
- Cream Cheese
- Pecorino
- Asiago
Select Complementary Meats:
Along with salami, choose a variety of cured meats such as:
- Prosciutto
- Pepperoni
- Ham
- Cured Chorizo
- Soppressata
- Sopresseta
- Summer Sausage
- Capicola
- Genoa Salami
Add Savory and Sweet Accompaniments:
Include some nuts, briny or pickled items, dips, and fresh or dried fruit. Here are some options:
- Almonds, candied pecans, pistachios, cashews, macadamia nuts
- Olives, cocktail onions, cornichons, dill pickles, pepperoncini
- Whole ground mustard, hummus, ranch, balsamic dip
- Grapes, apples, pears, oranges, berries, dried apricots, cherries, figs
- Sweet spreads like fig butter, orange marmalade, or jam
- Dark chocolate or chocolate-covered nuts
Don't Forget the Crackers:
Offer a variety of crackers, sliced baguette, or mini toasts in different shapes, sizes, and flavours. Some options include:
- Thin croccantini crackers
- Pita crackers
- Raisin rosemary crisps
Arrange the Board:
When it comes to assembling the board, follow these steps:
- Choose a board or platter that is sized appropriately for the number of people you are serving. You can also use multiple boards or lay out a large piece of butcher paper on your counter.
- Start with the cheese, placing 3, 5, or 7 types of cheeses around the board to act as anchors.
- Fold and add the meats. Try folding them in half or in quarters to create interesting textures and make them easier to grab. For thin meats like prosciutto, fold them into light and airy ribbons.
- Add the savory and sweet accompaniments, filling in the gaps. Separate colours to allow the brightest colours to stand out and pair well-suited foods together.
- Fill in the remaining space with crackers, and then add extra nuts or fruit to any remaining gaps.
Remember to keep it simple and design your board based on your guests' preferences. Make it colourful by adding bright fruits like grapes, strawberries, or blueberries. Enjoy creating your salami and cheese charcuterie board!
Cheese and Antipasto: Perfect Pairing for a Platter
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Salami and cheese health benefits
Salami and cheese are both delicious foods that can be enjoyed together, but do they have any health benefits?
Salami is typically made from pork or beef and is a type of cured sausage that's fermented and dried. It's often added to pizzas, pastas, sandwiches, and charcuterie boards. While it's a good source of protein, salami is also high in sodium, with almost a quarter of your daily value in just three slices. It's also a processed meat, which has been linked to an increased risk of certain types of cancer. However, some types of salami are fermented and may contain probiotics, which can support digestion and immunity.
On the other hand, cheese is a dairy product that comes in many varieties, such as cheddar, Swiss, mozzarella, and provolone. Cheese is a good source of calcium, which is essential for bone health. It also contains protein and other nutrients like vitamin B12, zinc, and phosphorus.
When enjoyed in moderation, salami and cheese can be part of a balanced diet. Here are some potential health benefits of consuming salami and cheese:
Source of Protein:
Salami and cheese are both good sources of protein, which is essential for muscle growth, tissue repair, and weight management.
Digestive Health:
Fermented salami contains probiotics that aid in digestion and support gut health.
Vitamin and Mineral Content:
Salami and cheese provide several vitamins and minerals. Salami is a source of vitamin B12, thiamine, niacin, and zinc. Cheese offers calcium, vitamin B12, zinc, and phosphorus.
Brain Function:
Salami and cheese both contain vitamin B12, which is important for brain function and cognitive health.
Energy Levels:
The protein and B vitamins in salami and cheese can contribute to energy production and metabolism.
However, it's important to remember that salami and cheese should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. They can be high in sodium, saturated fat, and calories, so it's best to choose low-sodium and lean options whenever possible. Additionally, due to the processing and high salt content of salami, it may be linked to an increased risk of certain health conditions.
Catfish, Cheese, and Wine: A Perfect Trio
You may want to see also
Salami and cheese: the best pairings
Salami is a dry, fermented sausage that has been cured. It is typically made from a mix of minced pork, beef, wine, salt, and spices. Salami is often salty, dry, and highly seasoned, with strong flavors resulting from the curing process.
When it comes to finding the perfect cheese to pair with salami, there are several options that complement its bold taste. Here are some of the best cheese pairings for salami:
Cheddar
A sharp cheddar is an excellent choice to pair with salami. The sharpness of the cheddar helps to offset the richness of the salami, and the two flavors complement each other well. Cheddar also adds a nice creaminess to the sandwich.
Mozzarella
Mozzarella is a mild-tasting cheese that provides a nice contrast to the saltiness of the salami. The sweetness of mozzarella melds nicely with the salami, making it a great option for sandwiches.
Provolone
Provolone is a mild-flavored, curd-pulled cheese that is commonly paired with Genoa salami, which is mostly made of salty pork. You can find provolone and salami sandwiches in most classic Italian delis.
Asiago
Asiago is a hard cheese with a nutty and slightly fruity flavor. It pairs well with Milano salami, a lean salami stuffed with peppercorns. Asiago can be shredded or sliced and added to sandwiches or cheese and meat platters.
Goat Cheese
Goat cheese, also known as chevre, has a buttery flavor and is often served as a smooth spread. It can be fresh or aged, with a pungent flavor. Goat cheese pairs well with delicate, thinly sliced salami such as soppressata, especially when served with pasta.
Parmesan
Parmesan is a grated, firm cheese with a nutty, tart flavor. It pairs well with salami and is a great addition to sandwiches, salads, or pasta dishes. Parmesan can also be shredded or grated and added to various recipes.
Blue Cheese
Blue cheese, including varieties such as gorgonzola, has a strong, acidic flavor that goes well with sweet and spicy salamis. It is often crumbled and used in salads, sandwiches, or as a topping for potatoes and eggs.
Manchego
Manchego is a Spanish cow's milk cheese with a pungent flavor. It is commonly used in Mediterranean cuisine and pairs well with salami. Manchego can be smashed with ripe tomatoes and fresh basil, adding a unique flavor to sandwiches or salads.
Gouda
Gouda is a semi-hard cheese with a mild, nutty flavor. It pairs well with milder salamis and can also be enjoyed with fruits and peppers. Gouda is a versatile cheese that can be shredded, sliced, or crumbled for sandwiches, salads, or other recipes.
When pairing cheese with salami, a good rule of thumb is to match the intensity of the flavors. Strong-flavored cheeses go well with strong salamis, while milder cheeses complement milder salamis. Experiment with different combinations to find your favorite pairings!
Cheese and BBQ Sauce: Perfect Pairing or Not?
You may want to see also
Frequently asked questions
Strong-flavoured cheeses that complement salami include cheddar, Swiss, provolone, Gruyere, Parmesan, Asiago, Roquefort, and Gorgonzola.
Mozzarella is a good option to balance out the saltiness of salami. Other mild cheeses that go well with salami include goat cheese and Gouda.
A general rule of thumb is to pair a strong cheese with a strong salami, and a milder cheese with a milder salami. It is also important to consider the texture of the cheese, as well as the overall flavour profile of the dish. For example, a creamy cheese can add a nice contrast to the dryness of salami, while a sweet cheese can balance out the saltiness.
Salami and cheese can be a nutritious combination, providing protein, vitamins, and minerals. For example, salami is a good source of vitamin K2, which is important for dental health, while cheese can help prevent cavities. However, it is important to consume in moderation due to the high sodium content.
