Antipasto Skewers Recipe

Introduction

Antipasto Skewers are the perfect way to bring an Italian-inspired appetizer to your table in a fun and easy-to-eat way. Whether you’re hosting a party, having a casual get-together, or simply craving a vibrant and delicious dish, these skewers are sure to be a hit. Combining a variety of savory ingredients like mozzarella, olives, cherry tomatoes, salami, and artichoke hearts, these skewers offer a little bit of everything that makes antipasto platters so irresistible.

These skewers are not only visually appealing, but they’re also incredibly customizable. You can easily swap in your favorite ingredients based on personal preference, dietary restrictions, or what you have available. The simplicity of the dish makes it ideal for both seasoned home cooks and beginners alike, with no cooking required—just assemble and enjoy!

In this recipe, we’ll break down how to make these colorful and flavorful skewers, provide some helpful tips for assembling, and offer a few fun variations. You’ll learn how to create a perfect combination of ingredients, and how to balance flavors and textures to make these skewers stand out at your next event.

Why You’ll Love Antipasto Skewers

• Quick and Easy: These skewers are incredibly easy to assemble and require no cooking. Simply skewer your ingredients, and they’re ready to serve. It’s a great option when you’re short on time or need a last-minute appetizer.
• Customizable: Whether you’re vegetarian, gluten-free, or simply have specific tastes, antipasto skewers can be tailored to suit your needs. Swap in different cheeses, meats, or veggies based on your preferences.
• Party-Perfect: These bite-sized appetizers are ideal for parties and gatherings. They’re easy to grab and eat while mingling, making them a great option for both casual and more formal events.
• Vibrant and Flavorful: With the bright colors of cherry tomatoes, olives, peppers, and other ingredients, antipasto skewers are not only delicious but also visually stunning. The variety of flavors from salty olives, creamy mozzarella, and tangy artichokes creates a balanced and satisfying bite.
• Healthy: Packed with fresh vegetables, lean meats, and heart-healthy olive oil, these skewers offer a light yet flavorful appetizer that’s a healthier alternative to many traditional party snacks.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: None (No cooking required)
• Servings: 4-6 servings (depending on portion size)
• Calories per Serving: 120-150 calories per skewer

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 120-150 kcal
• Fat: 10-12g
• Carbohydrates: 3-5g
• Protein: 6-8g
• Fiber: 1-2g
• Sugar: 2-3g

Ingredients

For the Antipasto Skewers:

• 16 oz fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine)
• 1 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
• 1 cup green olives, pitted
• 1 cup cherry or grape tomatoes
• 1/2 cup artichoke hearts, quartered (canned or jarred)
• 8 oz salami or pepperoni, sliced into 1-inch pieces
• 1/2 cup roasted red pepper strips
• Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)
• Wooden skewers or cocktail picks

For the Dressing (Optional):

• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients

Before assembling your skewers, take some time to prepare your ingredients.

• If you’re using fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine), drain any excess liquid and set them aside.
• Pit and drain the olives, ensuring they’re ready for skewering. You can choose Kalamata olives for a deep, tangy flavor, and green olives for a milder taste.
• Cut the artichoke hearts into quarters if they’re whole or simply use pre-quartered artichokes.
• Slice the salami or pepperoni into bite-sized pieces.
• If you’re using roasted red pepper strips, make sure they are cut into manageable pieces that will fit easily on the skewers.

Once everything is prepped, gather all the ingredients in bowls for easy access while assembling the skewers.

2. Assemble the Skewers

Now it’s time to start assembling! Grab your wooden skewers or cocktail picks, and begin layering your ingredients in a visually appealing and balanced way.

Start by adding a cherry tomato at the bottom of each skewer. Follow it with a piece of mozzarella, a slice of salami or pepperoni, an olive (either Kalamata or green), a piece of roasted red pepper, and a quartered artichoke heart.

Feel free to mix up the order and arrange the ingredients in any combination you like! The beauty of antipasto skewers is that you can create your own combinations of flavors and textures. You could also add some fresh basil leaves in between layers for an extra pop of freshness.

Repeat this process until all the ingredients are used up. Depending on the size of your skewers, you should be able to make about 12-15 skewers.

3. Drizzle with Dressing (Optional)

While the skewers are delicious on their own, you can elevate the flavors by adding a simple dressing. In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

Once your skewers are assembled, drizzle the dressing over the top for a burst of added flavor. If you don’t have time to make the dressing, you can skip this step, but it does add a nice tangy richness to the skewers. You can also serve the dressing on the side for dipping.

4. Garnish and Serve

Finally, garnish your antipasto skewers with fresh basil leaves to add a vibrant touch. The basil also brings a fragrant aroma to the dish that perfectly complements the savory ingredients.

Arrange the skewers on a serving platter, and they’re ready to serve! These skewers are best enjoyed immediately, but you can also prepare them ahead of time and refrigerate them for a few hours before serving.

Tips for Perfect Antipasto Skewers

• Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, use fresh ingredients like mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil. The quality of these ingredients really makes a difference in the final dish.
• Variety is Key: The beauty of antipasto skewers lies in the variety of ingredients you use. Mix and match different cheeses, meats, vegetables, and herbs to create a diverse range of flavors.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Skewers: While it’s tempting to pile as many ingredients as possible on each skewer, it’s important to leave some space between the items to ensure that each ingredient is visible and easy to pick up.
• Make Ahead: These skewers can be made ahead of time. Simply assemble the skewers, cover them with plastic wrap, and store them in the refrigerator until ready to serve. Drizzle with dressing just before serving for the best results.
• Serving Suggestions: These skewers pair well with a crisp white wine, such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc, or a refreshing sparkling water for a non-alcoholic option. They also go well with other Italian-inspired dishes like bruschetta, pasta salad, or a simple green salad.

Variations of Antipasto Skewers

• Vegetarian Skewers: Omit the salami or pepperoni and add extra veggies like cucumber, zucchini, or olives. You can also include different types of cheese, such as feta or goat cheese, for extra creaminess.
• Vegan Skewers: For a completely plant-based version, use vegan cheese (like almond-based mozzarella) and replace the salami with marinated tofu or tempeh. You can also add more fresh veggies and herbs for a flavorful vegan version.
• Mediterranean Twist: For a Mediterranean-inspired skewer, swap out the salami for Greek-style marinated olives, add feta cheese, and include items like roasted eggplant, stuffed grape leaves, or sun-dried tomatoes.
• Fruit and Cheese Skewers: Add fruit like grapes, melon, or strawberries to the skewers for a sweet-and-savory contrast. Pairing fruit with cheese adds a fun and unexpected flavor profile to the dish.

Storage and Shelf Life

Antipasto Skewers are best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare them ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 hours before serving. If you plan to store them for longer, it’s best to store the ingredients separately and assemble the skewers just before serving to maintain freshness.

If you have any leftover skewers, keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. Note that some ingredients, like mozzarella and fresh basil, may lose their texture after being stored for too long.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Antipasto Skewers

Antipasto skewers are perfect on their own, but you can pair them with other dishes for a more complete meal. Consider serving them alongside:

• Italian Bread or Focaccia: Serve the skewers with a basket of crusty Italian bread or focaccia for an authentic Mediterranean experience.
• Charcuterie Board: If you’re hosting a party, consider pairing the skewers with a charcuterie board featuring cured meats, cheeses, and olives.
• Pasta Salad: A fresh pasta salad with basil, cherry tomatoes, and mozzarella would pair perfectly with the skewers for a light and satisfying meal.
• Grilled Vegetables: Grilled vegetables, such as zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant, can complement the flavors of the skewers and provide a smoky, savory contrast.

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Conclusion

Antipasto Skewers are a simple, fun, and delicious way to bring the flavors of Italy to your table. Whether you’re entertaining guests or just looking for a light snack, these skewers are perfect for any occasion. With their colorful array of ingredients and vibrant flavors, they’re sure to be a hit at your next gathering.

From the creamy mozzarella to the tangy olives and savory salami, each bite offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures that will leave your guests coming back for more. With endless customization options and an easy assembly process, these antipasto skewers are a must-try recipe that everyone will love.

So grab your ingredients, assemble your skewers, and get ready to serve up a delicious Italian-inspired treat!