Olive, Porcini & Lardo Twists – A Perfect Antipasti Delight
Category: Appetizers | Serves: 4
These Olive, Porcini, and Lardo Twists are an irresistible antipasto, perfect for any occasion when you want to impress your guests with an elegant yet simple dish. The tender, earthy porcini mushrooms meld beautifully with the richness of the lardo, creating a savory, melt-in-your-mouth experience. The twists are a wonderful base for the creamy mushroom topping, elevating the flavors in every bite. This recipe combines the best of rustic ingredients for an appetizer that’s full of character and sophistication.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Oven-baked olive twists | 12 |
| Porcini mushrooms | 300g |
| Fresh liquid cream (heavy cream) | 50ml |
| Lardo di Colonnata (Lardo) | 12 slices |
| Garlic clove | 1 |
| Butter | 15g |
| Fresh parsley | 1 sprig |
| Fresh thyme | 2 sprigs |
| Fine sea salt | To taste |
| Freshly ground black pepper | To taste |
Instructions
-
Prepare the Porcini Mushrooms:
Begin by cleaning the porcini mushrooms. Use a sharp knife to gently remove any dirt from the stems, scraping them lightly. Clean the cap of the mushroom with the same care, removing any earthy spots. Then, wipe the entire mushroom with a damp cotton cloth to remove any remaining particles. Chop the mushrooms into small pieces, setting them aside. -
Prepare the Creamy Mushroom Base:
In a medium-sized pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the garlic clove, which should be smashed but left whole. Allow the garlic to infuse the butter for a minute, releasing its fragrance.
Add the chopped porcini mushrooms to the pan and sauté them for about 5 minutes, or until they begin to soften and release their natural juices. Stir occasionally, ensuring the mushrooms are evenly cooked. -
Make the Mushroom Cream Sauce:
Pour in the fresh liquid cream, stirring to combine with the mushrooms. Let the mixture cook for an additional 3–4 minutes, allowing the cream to thicken and the flavors to blend together. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Chop the fresh parsley and thyme, adding them to the pan at the last minute to preserve their fragrance. -
Assemble the Twists:
Warm the olive twists slightly in the oven to ensure they are crisp and ready for topping. Arrange the twists on a serving plate, placing them close together for easy serving. -
Finish with Lardo and Mushroom Cream:
For each twist, lay a slice of lardo on top, allowing the heat from the mushrooms to gently melt it, adding richness to each bite. Spoon the porcini and cream mixture generously over the top of the lardo. -
Serve:
Garnish with additional fresh parsley and thyme for a final burst of color and fragrance. These Olive, Porcini & Lardo Twists are best served immediately while the creamy topping is warm and the twists remain crisp.
Nutritional Information
(Per Serving – based on 4 servings)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~250 kcal |
| Protein | ~5g |
| Carbohydrates | ~15g |
| Fats | ~20g |
| Saturated Fats | ~7g |
| Fiber | ~2g |
| Sodium | ~350mg |
Chef’s Tips:
- Lardo Selection: If you can’t find Lardo di Colonnata, you can substitute it with any high-quality unsmoked pancetta or prosciutto. However, Lardo offers a unique, delicate flavor that’s hard to replicate.
- Mushroom Variations: Feel free to experiment with other wild mushrooms like chanterelles or cremini, depending on availability and personal preference.
- Serving Suggestions: These twists make a perfect starter, but they also work wonderfully as part of a larger charcuterie or cheese board. Pair with a crisp white wine or a light, herbal cocktail for an unforgettable appetizer.
These Olive, Porcini & Lardo Twists combine textures and flavors that are both hearty and refined, making them an excellent choice for any gathering. The creaminess of the porcini and the silky richness of lardo bring comfort and elegance to your table. The steps are straightforward yet result in a dish that feels sophisticated—an absolute crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
