These Italian Antipasto Skewers are a colorful mix of tasty treats! You’ll find delicious salami, cheese, olives, and cherry tomatoes all on a stick, making them fun to eat.
They’re perfect for parties or just a yummy snack while watching a movie. I love whipping these up quickly—just pick your favorite ingredients and pop them on skewers for instant joy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cherry Tomatoes: Opt for a mix of red and yellow to add color. If fresh tomatoes aren’t available, sun-dried tomatoes can bring a unique flavor, though they won’t have the juiciness.
Mozzarella Balls: Bocconcini are perfect. If you can’t find them, use feta cheese or cubed mozzarella. Keep in mind, feta will give a tangier taste!
Olives: Kalamata and green olives both add great flavors. You could switch them for any favorite olives, like Castelvetrano for a milder taste or black olives for a classic touch.
Salami & Prosciutto: These cured meats are key for that Italian flavor. If you’re looking for a lighter option, turkey or chicken salami works well. Vegetarian friends might enjoy marinated artichokes as a substitute!
Red Onion: Use thinly sliced red onion for a mild flavor. If you want something sweeter, you could use green onions instead.
How Can I Assemble Skewers for Perfect Flavor?
Assembling the skewers is fun but think about balance. Start with sturdy ingredients at the bottom, like olives, which can support softer items, like mozzarella. Here’s how to do it:
- First, if using, place an arugula leaf at the base to add a fresh note and help hold things in place.
- Next, alternate between flavors and textures—start with a green olive, then layer in salami, cherry tomato, mozzarella, black olive, and red onion in a repeating pattern.
- Leave a small gap between items for a better presentation and to allow dressing to coat each piece.
Don’t be afraid to mix and match the order based on your taste—it’s all about enjoying what you love! Enjoy a fun and colorful platter that’s as delightful to look at as it is to eat!
Italian Antipasto Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Skewers:
- 20 cherry tomatoes (a mix of red and yellow)
- 20 small mozzarella balls (bocconcini)
- 20 black olives (Kalamata or similar)
- 20 green olives (stuffed with pimentos or garlic)
- 10 slices of salami, folded or cut in half
- 10 slices of prosciutto or similar Italian cured meat, folded
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- Fresh arugula leaves (for serving)
- Wooden or bamboo skewers (8-10 inch length)
For The Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, finely chopped (about 1 tablespoon)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, including assembling the skewers and making the dressing. If you choose to marinate the skewers to enhance the flavors, you can let them sit for an additional 15-20 minutes. In total, you’ll be looking at around 30-35 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Dressing:
Start by grabbing a small bowl. In it, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, oregano, chopped parsley, and freshly ground black pepper. This will create a delicious dressing to drizzle over your skewers later.
2. Assemble the Skewers:
Take a wooden or bamboo skewer. Begin by threading a fresh arugula leaf onto it (this is optional but helps hold everything). Next, add a green olive, followed by a folded slice of salami or prosciutto, then a cherry tomato, a mozzarella ball, another black olive, and a few thin slices of red onion. Keep threading until the skewer is filled nicely but be sure to leave some space between each item for a nice presentation!
3. Arrange the Skewers:
Once all your skewers are assembled, place them on a serving platter that’s lined with fresh arugula leaves. This makes for a beautiful display and adds extra freshness.
4. Drizzle with Dressing:
Now, take the dressing you made earlier and drizzle it evenly over each skewer. Make sure each piece is lightly coated with the dressing to enhance its flavor.
5. Let Them Marinate (Optional):
If you have time, let the skewers marinate for about 15-20 minutes to allow all those wonderful flavors to blend together. This step is optional but recommended for a tastier bite!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Finally, serve the skewers chilled or at room temperature as a delightful antipasto appetizer. Enjoy the burst of flavors in every bite!
Can I Modify the Ingredients for Dietary Restrictions?
Absolutely! If you’re gluten-sensitive, this recipe is already gluten-free as written. For a lower carb option, skip the salami and prosciutto and load up on veggies like bell peppers or artichokes. If you’re vegetarian, replace the meats with marinated tofu or extra cheese and veggies!
How Can I Store Leftover Skewers?
If you have leftover skewers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve again to prevent sogginess. Just drizzle it on right before enjoying!
What’s the Best Way to Serve Them?
These skewers are best served chilled or at room temperature as an appetizer. They pair wonderfully with a light wine or a refreshing sparkling water. For added flair, you can serve them with a side of pesto or a dipping sauce for guests to enjoy!
Can I Make These Skewers Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prep these skewers ahead of time! Assemble them up to a day in advance and store them in the fridge. Just add the dressing right before serving to keep everything fresh and flavorful!
