Save to Pinterest I discovered this trick at a dinner party where the host had arranged cured meats in the most unexpected way—not in neat piles like I'd always seen, but as this flowing, continuous ribbon between two bowls of nuts. It caught everyone's eye immediately, and suddenly people were reaching for it like it was edible art. That evening taught me that presentation isn't just decoration; it's an invitation to play with your food.
Last spring, I made this for a casual wine tasting at home, and my friend Sarah kept taking photos from different angles, saying it was too pretty to eat. Then everyone forgot their manners and started deconstructing it piece by piece, nuts and salami mixed on napkins, laughter and wine flowing. That's when I knew it wasn't just an appetizer—it was an experience.
Ingredients
- High-quality salami (24 thin slices, about 150 g): The star of this show—choose slices thin enough to drape gracefully but with enough body to hold their shape as you arrange them.
- Roasted mixed nuts (2 cups total, 120 g per bowl): These provide textural contrast and anchor the figure-eight visually; almonds and cashews give you different shapes and tastes to explore.
- Fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme sprigs (optional): A few sprigs tucked between the salami add color and release subtle aromas as guests handle the platter.
- Crackers or breadsticks (optional): If you want to offer something to lean on, choose ones that won't overpower the delicate salami flavors.
Instructions
- Set your stage:
- Position two small bowls about 12 inches apart on your largest platter or board—think of them as the anchors of your infinity symbol. Fill each with a generous handful of nuts so they're visible and inviting.
- Begin the weave:
- Start laying salami slices in a gentle curve, overlapping them slightly so each slice catches the light differently. This overlap is what makes it feel continuous rather than scattered.
- Complete the loop:
- Guide the salami through and around the bowls, letting it naturally flow like a ribbon, slightly overlapping to create that seamless, elegant look. Step back occasionally to check the balance.
- Add quiet details:
- Tuck a few herb sprigs into the gaps between salami slices—they're little moments of color and aroma that make it feel intentional, not accidental.
- Bring it to the table:
- Present it immediately while everything is fresh and the arrangement is clean. Encourage guests to grab salami and nuts together for the best flavor combination.
Save to Pinterest What started as a simple appetizer became the thing people talked about long after the party ended. They didn't just remember eating it; they remembered the moment they recognized the infinity symbol, the little laugh of delight, the excuse to linger around the board.
The Art of the Arrangement
The beauty of this appetizer is that it requires no cooking skills, only a willingness to play. I've found that arranging the salami feels almost meditative—there's a rhythm to the overlapping, a satisfaction in creating something that looks effortless but intentional. The figure-eight shape naturally guides the eye and the hand, creating a flow that invites interaction.
Building Your Flavor Story
The real magic happens when you consider the contrast between the smoky, savory salami and the buttery, roasted nuts. I've experimented with different nut combinations, and I've learned that mixing textures—pairing crispy hazelnuts with creamy cashews—keeps the experience interesting. Some evenings I add a drizzle of honey on one side of the board, or I lay out three different types of salami for guests who want to explore.
Making It Your Own
This appetizer is endlessly adaptable, which is part of its charm. You can elevate it with artisanal or specialty salami, swap the nuts for olives or dried apricots, or even create a vegetarian version with marinated grilled vegetables forming the same infinity pattern. The structure stays the same, but the story changes with each variation.
- For a luxurious touch, layer different types of salami—spicy, fennel-forward, peppered varieties create visual and flavor depth.
- Pair it with crisp white wine, light reds, or sparkling options to keep the flavors dancing.
- Remember that this is a low-stress appetizer—no cooking means you can focus entirely on the presentation and enjoying your guests.
Save to Pinterest This appetizer has become my go-to when I want to impress without stress. It's proof that sometimes the most memorable dishes aren't about technique or time—they're about intention and playfulness.
Recipe FAQ
- → What types of salami work best for this dish?
High-quality thinly sliced salami such as spicy, fennel, or peppered varieties add depth and flavor. Using artisanal salami enhances the presentation.
- → Can I substitute the nuts with other ingredients?
Yes, olives or dried fruits can replace nuts to create different textures and flavors while maintaining the plating concept.
- → How should I arrange the salami slices?
Overlap the slices slightly to form a seamless figure-eight loop weaving elegantly between and around the bowls of nuts.
- → Are crackers necessary for this appetizer?
Crackers or breadsticks are optional and provide a crunchy element, but the dish is complete with just salami and nuts.
- → What drinks pair well with this appetizer?
Dry white wines, light red wines, or sparkling wines complement the savory salami and nut flavors nicely.