Save to Pinterest I discovered the Tudor Rose at a gallery opening in London, of all places, where a caterer had arranged these jewel-like appetizers on a silver tray. The moment I saw them, I understood the genius of it—five slices of salami arranged like petals, a button of yellow cheese holding them all together. It wasn't just food; it was edible geometry, and I knew I had to recreate it the moment I got home.
The first time I made this for my sister's engagement party, I arranged them across the charcuterie board at the last possible moment. Watching people pause mid-conversation to photograph these little roses made me realize that presentation is sometimes the most generous thing you can offer.
Ingredients
- Salami (5 slices, 6–8 cm diameter): Look for slices that are thin enough to curl slightly but sturdy enough to hold their shape. The diameter matters more than thickness—you want them substantial enough to form recognizable petals without being unwieldy.
- Yellow cheese (1 small round slice, 3–4 cm diameter, 0.5 cm thick): Gouda, Cheddar, or aged Emmental all work beautifully. The cheese acts as both visual anchor and structural button, so choose one with a firm enough texture that it won't crumble when handled.
Instructions
- Arrange your canvas:
- Place the five salami slices on a plate in a loose circle, overlapping each one slightly toward the center. Think of it like a game of dominoes laid in a spiral—each slice supports the one next to it, creating that satisfying symmetrical flower shape.
- Plant the button:
- Position your yellow cheese slice in the very center, letting it cover where all five salami petals meet. Press it down gently so it nestles into place and anchors everything together.
- Step back and adjust:
- Walk away from the plate for a moment and look at it with fresh eyes. If the petals feel lopsided or the cheese needs to shift left or right, now is the time to nudge things into balance.
- Serve with intention:
- Bring it directly to the table while everything is still crisp and the cheese is cool. There's a window where this appetizer is at its absolute best, so timing matters.
Save to Pinterest I brought three of these to a casual dinner once, nervous about whether such a simple thing would impress anyone. A guest actually took a photo and made it part of her wedding inspiration board. That's when I understood that elegance often lives in restraint.
Choosing Your Players
The beauty of this recipe is that it invites experimentation without demanding it. Prosciutto creates a more delicate, almost translucent petal. Spicy chorizo brings heat and deeper color. Smoked salmon transforms it into something entirely different but equally striking. I've learned that the best version is always the one that matches what you have in your kitchen and the mood of your gathering.
The Cheese Question
Hard cheeses are your friends here—they hold their shape and won't weep or soften in ways that compromise the design. Avoid soft cheeses like brie or fresh mozzarella, which will collapse under their own charm. A slice cut from a wedge with a sharp knife will always look more intentional than pre-sliced cheese from a package, though I'll admit the package version works in a pinch.
Beyond the Plate
Fresh herbs tucked between the petals add color and a whisper of flavor—basil and parsley are the obvious choices, but I've had lovely results with small mint leaves or even thin slices of radish. The rose becomes a conversation starter when you tell people they can customize their bite by choosing which herb to add. Serve it alongside crackers or thin bread slices, but always let the rose itself be the main attraction.
- Make the rose no more than thirty minutes before serving so the salami stays crisp.
- A small round cutter or cookie cutter makes centering the cheese easier, though a steady hand and a sharp knife will do.
- Double-check that your salami and cheese are free of any visible moisture, or the whole design will slip.
Save to Pinterest This recipe taught me that sometimes the most memorable dishes don't need hours of labor or long ingredient lists—they need attention, intention, and a willingness to make something that delights the eye as much as the mouth. That's the real recipe.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → How should the salami slices be arranged?
Arrange five salami slices in a circular, slightly overlapping pattern to form a symmetrical flower shape.
- → What type of cheese works best as the central button?
Small round slices of yellow cheeses like Gouda or Cheddar work well for the centerpiece.
- → Can I use different meats or cheeses?
Yes, substituting with various cured meats or cheeses can add new flavors and colors.
- → How can I enhance the color of the Tudor Rose?
Add fresh herbs such as basil or parsley tucked between the salami petals for extra color.
- → What should I serve alongside this appetizer?
Pair it with crackers or fresh bread to complement the flavors and textures.