Picada Argentina
A quintessential Argentine social gathering starter, the Picada is a generous platter featuring an assortment of cured meats, artisanal cheeses, briny olives, crunchy nuts, and crusty bread. It's designed for sharing and conversation, often enjoyed before a traditional 'asado' (barbecue).
🧂 Ingredients
- 400 g Assorted Cheeses(Include a variety such as hard cheeses (e.g., aged cheddar, Gruyère), semi-hard (e.g., Gouda, Provolone), and a soft cheese if desired (e.g., brie). Aim for a mix of textures and flavors.)
- 300 g Cured Meats(Select a variety of charcuterie like salami, prosciutto, chorizo, mortadella, or any preferred cold cuts. Slice thinly.)
- 150 g Olives(A mix of green and black olives works well. Ensure they are pitted for easy eating.)
- 100 g Nuts(A combination of almonds, walnuts, cashews, or pistachios provides a pleasant crunch.)
- for serving Breadsticks or Baguette Slices(Thinly sliced baguette, toasted or fresh, or good quality breadsticks are essential for scooping and complementing the other ingredients.)
- to taste Optional Additions(Consider adding marinated artichoke hearts, sun-dried tomatoes, cornichons, or a small bowl of dips like aioli or hummus for extra flavor and texture.)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the cheeses: Slice any hard or semi-hard cheeses into manageable pieces or cubes. If using a whole soft cheese, place it in the center of your serving board. Arrange the sliced cheeses artfully around the board, ensuring a good distribution of variety.
⏱️ 7 minutes - 2
Arrange the cured meats: Fold or roll slices of cured meats and place them amongst the cheeses. Create visual interest by varying the arrangement – some folded, some fanned out.
⏱️ 7 minutes - 3
Add the accompaniments: Scatter the olives and nuts in small piles or bowls across the board. If using optional additions like artichoke hearts or sun-dried tomatoes, distribute them evenly.
⏱️ 6 minutes - 4
Final Touches and Serving: Place the breadsticks or baguette slices strategically around the board, ensuring they are easily accessible. The goal is a visually appealing, abundant platter that invites guests to graze. Serve immediately.
⏱️ 1 minute
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓The Picada is a traditional pre-'asado' (barbecue) appetizer, perfect for guests to enjoy while the main meal is being prepared.
- ✓Traditionally served with a Fernet con Cola, a popular Argentine aperitif.
- ✓This dish is designed for interaction and conversation; encourage guests to help themselves.
- ✓Use a large wooden board, slate, or platter for an authentic and attractive presentation.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- For a more elaborate Picada, include pâtés, terrines, or artisanal crackers.
- A simpler version can focus on just 2-3 types of cheese and meats, with olives and bread.