Tagliere 101: Crafting an Authentic Italian Sharing Platter

A tagliere is more than just a charcuterie board—it’s a culinary tradition in Italy.

These boards feature a variety of delicious cured meats, cheeses, and vegetables, perfect for sharing with friends and family.

What goes on a tagliere?

A classic tagliere includes a few key ingredients. Here are some of the most popular:

  • Meats. Cured meats like salami, prosciutto, and mortadella are essential. Depending on the region, you might find other local cured meats, too.
  • Cheeses. You’ll want to include both fresh and aged cheeses, such as mozzarella, burrata, pecorino, and parmesan. The cheeses used often depend on what’s available locally.
  • Veggies and other snacks. To add freshness and flavor, many taglieri will include mushrooms, onions, artichokes, or olives. You’ll also want bread or truffle bruschetta to round out the board.

Pairing taglieri

Taglieri are often served with Italian wines, such as Brunello di Montalcino, Chianti, and Prosecco. The wine you select will depend on what’s on the board. Bold red wines pair well with rich meats.

The combination of flavors, colors, and fragrances is what makes a tagliere special. If you want to be authentic, consider pairing regional wines and foods.

Frequently Asked Questions

How to eat tagliere

Eating tagliere is all about enjoying the variety of flavors and textures. Start by trying different combinations of cheeses, cured meats, and other components like olives or fruit. Use bread or crackers to scoop up soft cheeses or spread pâtés. Don’t be afraid to experiment and find your favorite pairings! It’s meant to be a social and relaxed experience, so share with friends and savor each bite.

What’s the difference between a tagliere and a cutting board?

While a tagliere can be used as a cutting board, it’s primarily designed for serving and displaying food, especially cured meats, cheeses, and other appetizers. Cutting boards are purely functional, made to withstand heavy chopping and cutting. Taglieri are often made from more attractive materials like olive wood or marble and are meant to be presented at the table.

What is tagliere pasta?

This is where things get a bit tricky! “Tagliere” doesn’t directly translate to a specific type of pasta. It’s possible you’re thinking of “tagliatelle,” which is a long, flat, ribbon-shaped pasta originating from the Emilia-Romagna region of Italy. Tagliatelle is often served with rich meat sauces like Bolognese.

What is tagliere in Italy?

In Italy, “tagliere” (pronounced tal-YAIR-eh) refers to a wooden board, typically used for serving a selection of cured meats, cheeses, and other appetizers. It’s a staple in Italian cuisine, often enjoyed as an antipasto or aperitivo with friends and family. Think of it as a charcuterie board, but with an Italian flair!

Closing Thoughts

A tagliere offers a delicious glimpse into Italian culinary traditions, highlighting regional specialties.

So gather some friends or family, and enjoy the experience of sharing this beautiful and tasty board!