Italian Antipasto Skewers are a fun and tasty way to enjoy classic flavors! These colorful bites include olives, cheese, salami, and cherry tomatoes, all on a stick!
They’re perfect for parties or a cozy get-together. I love how easy they are to make—just grab your favorite ingredients and thread them on the skewers. Snack time never looked so good! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Fresh Mozzarella Balls: These add creaminess to the skewers. If you’re looking for a lower-fat option, use mozzarella made from skim milk or even cottage cheese for a different texture.
Salami: For a spicier twist, try pepperoni or chorizo instead. If you’re vegetarian, you could use marinated artichoke hearts or grilled vegetables.
Cherry Tomatoes: Use any color of cherry tomatoes for fun! If they’re not in season, grape tomatoes or even small diced bell peppers work too.
Olives: Kalamata and green olives both bring flavor. If you want a milder taste, try using sliced black olives instead, or skip them if you’re not a fan.
Herbs: Fresh parsley adds brightness, but basil or chives are great alternatives. Dried herbs are fine if fresh isn’t available. Just use 1/3 the amount!
How Do You Assemble the Skewers Perfectly?
Assembling these skewers is easy, but arranging them nicely makes for a great presentation. Start by laying all your ingredients out so you can see them clearly. Here’s how:
- Begin with one wooden skewer. This will steady your hand.
- Thread the ingredients in the order you prefer for both color and flavor balance. Alternate between different items for an appealing look.
- Don’t overload the skewer as this can make it hard to eat; a few pieces each is just right!
Take your time, this is where you can be creative and customize based on your favorites! You can even theme them by color or flavor if you want to impress guests.
Italian Antipasto Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Skewers:
- 12 small fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini)
- 12 slices of salami, halved or folded
- 12 cherry tomatoes (red and yellow)
- 12 green olives (pitted)
- 12 Kalamata olives (pitted)
For the Marinade:
- Fresh parsley, finely chopped (about 2 tbsp)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp dried Italian herbs or oregano
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For Assembling:
- Small wooden skewers or toothpicks
- Optional garnish: fresh rosemary sprigs (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15-20 minutes to prepare, including the time to marinate the mozzarella. It’s quick and easy, making it ideal for a tasty appetizer or a fun party snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a small bowl, add the olive oil, chopped fresh parsley, dried Italian herbs, and a pinch of freshly ground black pepper. Stir everything together until well mixed; this will be the herb dressing for the mozzarella!
2. Marinate the Mozzarella:
Gently add the mozzarella balls to the bowl with the herb dressing. Toss them lightly until they are coated and set this aside. Let them marinate for a few minutes while you start assembling the skewers.
3. Assemble the Skewers:
Take a wooden skewer and begin threading your ingredients. Start with one Kalamata olive, followed by a cherry tomato. Then, take a slice of salami, fold it if you like, and thread it on next. After that, add one marinated mozzarella ball, and finish with one green olive.
4. Repeat Until Complete:
Continue assembling all the skewers in this manner, alternating colors and ingredients for a beautiful presentation. Aim for a lovely mix of all the flavors in every skewer!
5. Serve & Enjoy:
Once all the skewers are assembled, arrange them on a serving platter. You can garnish around the edges with fresh rosemary sprigs to add an aromatic touch if you like. Serve immediately or chill briefly before serving for a refreshing bite!
These Italian Antipasto Skewers are not only delicious but also a feast for the eyes! Enjoy this vibrant and flavorful appetizer that brings the taste of Italy right to your table!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of mozzarella, you can use cubes of provolone, feta cheese, or even cheddar. Just ensure the cheese can hold up well on the skewer and complements the other flavors.
How Do I Store Leftover Skewers?
Store any leftover skewers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To keep them fresh, try to separate the ingredients slightly in the container to avoid them becoming soggy.
Can I Make These Skewers Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the skewers a few hours in advance. Just assemble them and keep them covered in the refrigerator. Drizzle with extra olive oil and herbs just before serving to refresh the flavors!
What Other Ingredients Can I Add?
You can certainly get creative! Try adding marinated artichoke hearts, roasted red peppers, or even fresh basil leaves for extra flavor. Just make sure the ingredients complement each other well!
