Top Picks for Your Lunch Box

Build a board: Volpi 4 oz Trio

Make a lunch an ode to childhood with some meat, cheese, and crackers. Grab Volpi’s Sandwich Trio, a cheese of your liking and your favorite crackers for an on-the-go charcuterie board. The sampler of meats provides options, so lunch time is always interesting. This option is great for those that tend to graze or need a few quick bites between meetings, classes, or errands.

Entrée: Caprese Skewers with Sliced Genoa Salame

Create a fun and flavorful lunch box treat by assembling Caprese skewers with a Volpi twist. Alternate cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella balls, and Volpi Genoa Salami slices on skewers. Drizzle them with olive oil and balsamic glaze for added flavor. These colorful skewers can standalone or act as a snack for your midday meal break.

Perfect side: Prosciutto-Wrapped Fruit

A sweet and savory combo is the secret to a well-rounded lunchbox. Wrap slices of Volpi Prosciutto around bite-sized pieces of melon, pineapple, or apple for a bite bursting with flavor. These finger foods are a great way to incorporate fruit into your lunch and give it a little bit of pizazz.

On-the-go Snack: Roltini Single with Mozzarella and Prosciutto or Roltini Single with Mozzarella and Pepperoni

These grab-and-go snacking items pack the perfect punch of protein and a salty, savory combination. The Roltini Single with Mozzarella and Prosciutto offers a melt-in-your-mouth texture that elevates a sandwich or salad lunch. If prosciutto isn’t quite up your alley, a Roltini Single with Mozzarella and Pepperoni offers smoky and rich flavors that is sure to be a hit. Overall, these single-serve items are a great snack to tag along in a lunchbox.

Packing a tasty and nutritious lunch doesn’t have to be a challenge. With Volpi Foods’ range of charcuterie, you can create the perfect work or commuting lunch box masterpieces that will keep you satisfied and energized throughout the day. From Roltini Singles to Caprese skewers and on-the-go charcuterie boards, there’s no shortage of creative and flavorful ideas. Embrace the goodness of Volpi Foods and make every lunch box a delicious success! Check us out on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, TikTok and Pinterest for more inspiration for your lunchbox.

When it comes to chorizo, there are two main styles: Spanish-style and Mexican-style. Do you know the difference between the two and how to utilize them?

While both are delicious and flavorful, they differ in a few key ways. Volpi Traditional Spanish-style chorizo is crafted using an authentic recipe passed down through generations. This chorizo is made from high-quality pork and is seasoned with smoked paprika and garlic, giving it a rich and smoky flavor. It is also cured, which means it can be enjoyed sliced and eaten as is, without the need for cooking.

On the other hand, Mexican-style chorizo is typically made from ground pork mixed with a blend of chili peppers, vinegar, and other spices. It has a more bold and spicier flavor compared to Spanish-style chorizo. Mexican-style chorizo is often sold in links and needs to be cooked before consuming. It can be used in a variety of dishes, including tacos, burritos, and scrambled eggs.

A difference in the taste of these two styles of chorizo is based on the spices used. Spanish-style chorizo is typically seasoned with smoked paprika, which gives it a smoky flavor and a deep red color. Mexican-style chorizo, on the other hand, uses a blend of chili peppers, which gives it a spicy and bold flavor. The texture also differs, with Spanish-style chorizo being firmer and denser, while Mexican-style chorizo is softer and more crumbly

Another unique difference about the styles of chorizo is the way they are consumed. Spanish-style chorizo is often enjoyed sliced and eaten as a snack or appetizer, while Mexican-style chorizo is usually cooked and used as an ingredient in dishes.

How can I use Chorizo?

Both Spanish-style and Mexican-style chorizo are delicious and can be used in a variety of dishes. They each have their own unique flavor and texture, so it’s worth trying both to see which one you prefer. Whether you’re snacking on sliced chorizo or using it as an ingredient in your favorite dish, Volpi Foods Traditional Spanish-style chorizo and Mexican-style chorizo are sure to add a burst of flavor to your meals.

Check out some of our recipes that incorporate Spanish-style chorizo! Craft a spicy drink with a chorizo bloody mary, craft a game time snack with chorizo party mix or perfect a stuffed chorizo and jack stuffed burger. If you’re looking for more inspiration, check us out on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, TikTok, Pinterest or find more recipes here.

Mortadella is a type of Italian cured meat that has been enjoyed for centuries. It is similar to baloney, but it has a distinct flavor and texture that sets it apart. This type of charcuterie originated in the Italian city of Bologna in the 14th century. It was originally made using only pork, but over time, other ingredients, such as pistachios, were added to the recipe. Today, mortadella is still made in the traditional, tried and true way with high quality pork and a blend of spices and flavorings.

How is mortadella made?

What is mortadella and how is it made? The main ingredient in this charcuterie is pork. The meat is ground into a paste, mixed with salt and spices, and then stuffed into a casing. The spices used can vary, but typically include black pepper, coriander, and nutmeg. Other ingredients such as garlic or pistachios may also be added to give the mortadella a unique flavor and texture.

The process of making this classic sandwich delicacy is a labor-intensive one that requires skill and patience. The meat is ground and mixed with the spices and flavorings, then stuffed into a casing and cooked slowly over a low heat. The cooking process can take several hours, and the temperature must be carefully controlled to ensure that the mortadella is cooked through but not overcooked. Once the mortadella is cooked, it is allowed to cool before being sliced and served.

How do I serve mortadella?

Sliced mortadella can be eaten on its own as a snack or used as a filling for sandwiches or salads. It is also a popular ingredient in many Italian dishes, including pasta dishes and pizzas.

What recipes incorporate mortadella?

You may be asking yourself, “how do I incorporate this into my next dish?”. We have quite a few ways we would suggest. This velvety slice of meat laced with chunks of fat throughout is the perfect sandwich ingredient. You can find it in our sandwich trio to create a delectable lunch or use it for a twist on the classic reuben. It also creates a perfect marriage when paired with potatoes in our scalloped potato recipe or even in a meatloaf.

Mortadella is a delicious and versatile Italian cured meat that has been enjoyed for centuries. Its unique flavor and texture make it a popular ingredient in many dishes, and it is a staple of Italian cuisine. Whether you enjoy it on its own or as part of a larger recipe, mortadella is sure to please any meat lover. The original baloney should be a staple in all fridges. The versatile cut of charcuterie is sure to be a hit with the party-goers and lunch connoisseurs. For inspiration on how to utilize mortadella, check us out on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, TikTok, Pinterest or find more recipes here.

Whether you’re extending “Dry January”, sober-curious, or just prefer a mocktail, we’re got the perfect charcuterie pairings for you. These match-ups are all about creating a savory morsel that keep you coming back for more.

Traditional Prosciutto + Paloma

Our traditional prosciutto offers the melt-in-your-mouth texture people are seeking. A refreshing Paloma mocktail made with grapefruit juice, lime juice, and soda water will perfectly balance the saltiness of the prosciutto.

Bresaola + Sangria

This ruby red, sweet and aromatic slice of dry-cured beef goes well with Sangria. Make it a mocktail with cranberry juice, orange juice, fresh fruit and sparkling water which is sure to complete the tasting experience of the delicate flavor of bresaola. We also suggest creating a salad topped with shaved Parmigiano cheese, olive oil, and topped with bresaola to elevate your greens.

Genoa Salame + Bloody Mary

A classic staple of any charcuterie board, genoa salame is perfection. With a smooth rich flavor and clean finish, mix this bite up with a spicy mocktail such as a Virgin Mary made with tomato juice, hot sauce, and Worcestershire sauce to bring out the bold flavors of the salami.

Traditional Chorizo + Shirley Temple

Chorizo is here to pack a punch. Pair this slice with a sweet mocktail such as a Shirley Temple, made with ginger ale and grenadine, to balance the spiciness. Craft your bite with a piece of aged Manchego and French baguette to deliver a taste you’ll never forget.

Gourmet Uncured Pepperoni + Mojito

Pepperoni is a classic pizza topping but it also is a great slice of charcuterie, thick or thin. Pair a slice with a citrusy mocktail, such as a Mojito made with lime juice and club soda, which will contrast the smoky, rich flavor of the pepperoni.

These delicious drink pairings will elevate your charcuterie board and impress all your guests.

For more inspiration or new ways to shake up your charcuterie board, check us out on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, TikTok and Pinterest. Cheers!

Pizza

Volpi Pepperoni & Chorizo Crumbles are a delicious addition to any pizza. Their bold flavors and spicy kick make for a mouthwatering experience. Whether you’re making your pizza from scratch or saving time with a premade pie, adding these crumbles will take your pizza to the next level. Give it a try and let your taste buds be the judge!

Pasta

The perfect pasta gets even better with a sprinkle of Pepperoni & Chorizo Crumbles. The salty and spicy flavors of the meats add depth to the dish, while the crumbly texture gives a satisfying crunch. Try tossing the crumbles with penne pasta, tomato sauce, and some grated Parmesan cheese for a delicious and easy meal. Don’t forget to garnish with fresh herbs like basil or parsley for an extra pop of flavor.

Appetizer

A simple and efficient way to add a little something extra to any appetizer. To create a delicious topping, open the package and sprinkle or create a toasty topping by sautéing the Pepperoni & Chorizo Crumbles in a pan until they are crispy. Use these crunchy pieces to elevate your cheese fondue, add some texture to some party mix, or as a pop of flavor in a salad. Enjoy this savory appetizer with friends and family at your next gathering!

Pepperoni & Chorizo Crumbles is combining a classic pizza topping and adding a little bit of spicy with Spanish-style chorizo. Together, this pairing is creating the perfect harmony. Looking for more inspiration? Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter and TikTok.

Craft the perfect game day grazing experience by making:

The Volpi Cheesesteak

The Volpi Cheesesteak, a twist on the classic Philadelphia cheesesteak, is the perfect entrée for your game day party. While we have nothing but brotherly love for the original sandwich, take it up a notch with Sopressata or spicy Sopressata.

Game Day Grazing Board

It’s game day! Get the party platter ready for grazing with your friends (or foes). This is sure to have something for everyone. This is a great way to incorporate the football theme, with cream cheese shaped into a football covered with Volpi Pepperoni and Chorizo Crumbles. Make sure to include some carrots, celery, or chips for a vehicle for the dip.

Chorizo Party Mix

Get the perfect combination of salty and sweet with chorizo party mix. Balance the flavor and spice with dried mangoes to give it a sweetness you’re sure to love. Packed full of crunchy bits as well, this snack provides the balance your game day snacks deserve.

Best Ever Game Time Chili

It’s always a win when you make the Best Ever Game Time Chili. This dish is enhanced with traditional chorizo salami which packs a punch with smoked paprika, fresh garlic, herbs and spices. Kick up the flavor and add Pepperoni and Chorizo Crumbles to top it off. While the Big Game is in sunny Arizona, this chili will provide all the warmth needed for the Midwest winter.

Cheesy Pepperoni Bread

A grab-and-go snack that is delicious and filling. Cheesy pepperoni bread creates a pizza moment in a bite-size snack that is always a crowd pleaser.

Check us out at Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, TikTok and Pinterest for more inspiration for your game day feast.

There are many ways charcuterie can be boosted during this time of year. Merchandising, promotions, and limited time offerings can encourage discovery among loyal shoppers while gaining new-to-the-category customers as well. Volpi’s team of experts have put together proven, best-in class strategies to make charcuterie sets a destination stop this holiday shopping season.

Merchandising

Merchandising charcuterie doesn’t have to be hard. Here are a few simple ways to make your charcuterie set stand out. First, optimize everyday sets with seasonal favorites and limited time offerings that create intrigue. Bring in charcuterie boards and premium offerings such as Volpi Heritage Prosciutto and Jamon Serrano.

Next, create pairings. Layer in cheese, cracker, and wine pairings to keep shoppers in the deli longer. Wine can go in cases near the display, on top of the case or even added directly to the set. Crackers should also be nearby – place above the charcuterie set for better visibility. Think of this as suggestive selling without the labor.

To create even more pairing options, merchandise charcuterie items into a recipe set. Place chopped and diced charcuterie items near fresh pasta noodles, pizza dough and flatbreads to create simple meal ideas for the holidays.

Lastly, focus on omnichannel merchandising. Bringing destination sets online can engage shoppers that do not want to shop in store. The idea is the same as in store, with a few changes. Substitute signage with banner ads that draw shoppers in. Then create destination pages. These mimic the in store set and feature the same items listed above.

Shoppers are looking to save time in-store during the holidays so they can spend more time at home. Destination charcuterie sets take the guesswork out of entertaining and make shopping enjoyable during stressful holiday prep.

Promotions

Running promotions is a key aspect of creating a charcuterie destination. These deals will appeal to new-to-the-category shoppers looking to trial something new. Make sure the destination features a selection of cheese and meat brands that are running promotions during the holidays.  Featuring these items in physical and digital weekly ads will give shoppers an idea of what they’d like to buy before they even step into the store. When building these ads try using creative callouts that intrigue customers and draw them to your charcuterie destination.

LTOs

Lastly, we recommend bringing in limited time offerings during peak eating occasions. LTOs can play an important role in driving basket size and getting customers excited to shop during the holidays. Bring in limited time products such as pre-made charcuterie boards, gift sets and seasonal flavors that get customers attention. These options can be great additions to charcuterie destinations as they add product differentiation throughout the year and keep shoppers coming back for more.

The deli plays an important role within grocery stores. Highlighting key sets throughout the holidays can bring an exciting change to a staple department. Looking for more customized inspiration? Reach out to the Volpi team!

Pancetta is a type of salumi cut from the pork belly that receives its flavor from the curing spice blend and the aging process. This cut is very versatile and can add a layer of dimension to the flavor of many dishes. With this dish, you’ll create a deeper, unique flavor to your board when you render the fat, in lieu of oil, to sauté your Brussels sprouts.

To create your masterpiece, sauté the chopped pancetta. While waiting for the pancetta to get crispy and golden brown, chop up your Brussels sprouts. Once the pancetta is browned, remove it from pan, and drop in the sprouts. They will take on the flavor of the pancetta with the oil left over. While waiting for those to cook, spread whipped ricotta on your board. Add your pancetta, Brussels sprouts, and finish with a drizzle of hot honey. Scoop up the perfect bite with Italian bread and enjoy!

WHAT YOU’LL NEED

• Ricotta
• Chopped Uncured Pancetta
• Brussels Sprouts
• Hot Honey
• Italian Bread (for dipping)

With Volpi Foods charcuterie, your dish or board is sure to be the talk of the town. For more information or inspiration, check out our TikTok, Instagram or Facebook.

Listed below is a crash course in the characteristics of the various types of charcuterie and pairings that will create a great tasting experience. Learn the perfect formula for curating the best meat and cheese board for you, your guests, or those you want to impress.

Genoa Salame

A medium-grind, garlic-heavy salami with a smooth, rich flavor and clean finish. A perfect addition to any board.

• Genoa + fontina cheese + prosecco + Italian bread

Traditional Sopressata

With a mild and spicy version, you can’t go wrong. The mild version incorporates peppercorns, while the spicy is laced with crushed Calabrian red pepper flakes, which gives it a bold flavor and smooth texture.

•  Sopressata + fresh goat cheese + wheat beer or dry rose + toasted bread

Gourmet Uncured Pepperoni

The perfect pizza topper is also the perfect addition to any charcuterie board. The signature smoky and sweet flavor of pepperoni pairs well with fresh mozzarella.

• Pepperoni + fresh mozzarella + craft IPA + flatbread

Traditional Chorizo

While similar to pepperoni, this Spanish -style salami packs a punch with it’s bold flavor and smoky undertone. This salami is enhanced with smoked paprika, fresh garlic, herbs, and spices.

• Chorizo + aged Manchego + Rioja wine + French baguette

Traditional Bresaola

Essentially a beef prosciutto, this lean and tender cut offers a sweet and aromatic flavor that is enhanced by spices used. This cut provides deep ruby red shading and thin lines of marbled fat throughout and makes a great addition your board.

• Bresaola + parmigiano cheese + arugula + olive oil + crusty bread

Whether you’re preparing a meat and cheese board for a tailgate, grazing table, house party, or a late-night snack, these combinations are sure to be a win. We know Volpi charcuterie is the perfect addition to any board. For 120 years, we’ve been making our traditions part of yours and bringing people together through delicious food. For more inspiration, visit Instagram, Facebook, or TikTok.

PROTEIN IS POWER.

Protein is the most important nutrient when it comes to our performance health. It’s found in almost everything we eat. Whether you’re a hardcore athlete or someone that does a ton of activity throughout the day… Eating enough protein will improve your energy levels, aid in muscle recovery, strengthen your immune system, and help you sleep better.

Why is protein so important? Protein is the most abundant and essential nutrient in a human diet. Let’s take a look at the main benefits of protein. Add protein in your everyday, recipe routine to: 

• Helps build muscle
• Boosts metabolism
• Regulates appetite and helps you feel full longer
• Fuels recovery after a tough workout
• Maintain weight loss

This is why protein is such a powerful component of your diet. It gives you energy, helps keep your body lean and healthy, and can help you lose weight. It’s easy to get the protein you need from a variety of food choices. The trick is getting in enough protein without eating too many calories.

Protein is the key to having a healthy diet and feeling like you have enough energy to power through your day. If you have children, introducing them to new recipes with protein can help them get the most out of their meals and snacks. Here are some ideas to transition your family’s meals into a higher protein diet.

Trendy toasts

The Ultimate Breakfast: Eggs All’Amatriciana

Up the protein in your breakfast toast with simple swaps. Our easy Eggs All’Amatriciana recipe uses crisp Pancetta rather than Guanciale or classic Bacon to add in more protein for the start of your day. Likewise, we top it all off with perfectly soft-cooked eggs. Layer on top of toasted bread for a balanced meal that will give you the strength to power through that To-Do list.

How to keep snacking simple?

Don’t overcomplicate snack time. Be sure to always include at least one protein-rich item in your snack lineup like mixed nuts, lean Prosciutto, or prepared meat and cheese wraps. Add charcuterie, low-fat cheese, and crackers into your meal plan. Add in pre-chopped Pancetta for an added protein boost to salads, pastas and omelets. Protein powders can also be added to everything from smoothies to pancakes, muffins and even brownies. Protein doesn’t have to be complicated or boring! For more snack ideas, check out our blog: The Best High Protein Snacks For Life On The Go.

DELICIOUSLY HEALTHY DINNERS

Whether you’re looking for an easy way to cut calories or healing from tough workouts over the year, protein is an essential to maintaining a healthy lifestyle for the long-run. Add this high protein recipe from our Deliciously Healthy Cooking Series into your weekly recipe routine for a new family favorite.

Brussels Sprouts and Chorizo – Recipe by Christopher Sinclair-McCalla

VIEW THIS RECIPE HERE

Yields: 6 to 8 servings

• 4 Tbsp unsalted butter
• olive oil
• 2 lbs Brussels sprouts, each cut lengthwise in half
• freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• salt, to taste
• ½ cup minced Spanish-style (dried and cured) chorizo
• 3 Tbsp minced shallots
• 2 Tbsp mincedfresh garlic
• about ¾ cup chicken stock
• ½ cup balsamic vinegar
• 1 cup dried cranberries
• 2 Tbsp chopped fresh parsley leaves

Conclusion

No matter if you’re a mom on-the-go, or looking to drive muscle gains, the protein in your diet gives you the energy to keep running throughout the day.