Antipasto skewers are the perfect appetizer for any gathering. Combining the best ingredients of a traditional antipasto platter, these skewers are quick, easy, and absolutely delicious. The bite-sized portions of cheese tortellini, cured meats, marinated vegetables, and fresh basil create a vibrant and flavorful dish that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or looking for a snack, these skewers offer a convenient, crowd-pleasing solution. Let’s dive into the recipe for making these amazing antipasto skewers.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love Antipasto Skewers
These antipasto skewers offer the best of both worlds: they take the classic antipasto platter and make it portable and easy to serve. With cured meats like salami and pepperoni, marinated vegetables like artichoke hearts, and fresh ingredients like basil and grape tomatoes, these skewers balance rich, salty flavors with bright, fresh notes. The addition of cheese tortellini not only brings a satisfying texture but also complements the salty and tangy ingredients perfectly. This appetizer is quick to make and perfect for meal prepping, making it an ideal choice for any occasion.
Ingredients for Antipasto Skewers
To prepare your antipasto skewers, you will need the following ingredients:
• Cheese Tortellini: Provides a hearty, chewy texture and a mild flavor that balances out the saltiness of the cured meats.
• Italian Dressing: Adds tangy flavor and moisture to the tortellini, making it even more delicious.
• Olives: A mix of green and black olives (or other varieties like kalamata) adds a briny, salty bite.
• Fresh Basil Leaves: A burst of freshness and aromatic flavor that enhances the savory ingredients.
• Cured Meats (Salami, Pepperoni): These meats bring bold flavors to the skewers with a satisfying saltiness.
• Grape Tomatoes: Fresh and juicy tomatoes cut through the richness, offering a refreshing contrast.
• Marinated Artichoke Hearts: Tender and tangy, these vegetables bring a unique flavor to the mix.
• Cheese (Cheddar, Mozzarella, or Provolone): A cubed cheese option adds creaminess and richness to each bite.
• Cocktail Picks or Skewers: Small, sturdy picks hold everything together for easy eating.
Alternative Ingredient Suggestions
While the recipe calls for specific ingredients, there are plenty of alternatives and additions you can try:
• For a different protein, substitute prosciutto or ham for the salami and pepperoni.
• Try adding roasted red peppers or marinated mushrooms to the skewers for extra depth of flavor.
• If you’re avoiding cheese, swap out the cheese tortellini for another type of pasta or use vegan cheese alternatives.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the tortellini according to the package directions. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Toss the cooled tortellini in Italian dressing and refrigerate for 15 minutes to 2 hours, allowing it to marinate.
- While the tortellini marinates, prepare the remaining ingredients. Arrange the olives, basil, salami, tomatoes, artichoke hearts, pepperoni, and cheese near your workspace.
- Start threading the ingredients onto the cocktail picks or skewers. Alternate between colors and textures, starting with an olive, followed by a basil leaf, a tortellini, salami, tomato, artichoke heart, pepperoni, olive, and a cheese cube. Repeat until all ingredients are used.
- Serve the skewers with a side of olive oil, balsamic vinegar, or pesto for dipping, and drizzle with balsamic glaze if desired.
Tips & Tricks
• Make sure to cook the tortellini al dente to prevent them from becoming mushy once they marinate.
• For best results, make these skewers ahead of time and refrigerate them for up to a day. Add the glaze just before serving to keep the presentation intact.
• Antipasto skewers are best when eaten fresh, but they can be stored in the fridge for 3-4 days. Combine any leftovers into a quick salad for a refreshing lunch the next day.
Pairing Ideas and Variations
These antipasto skewers are perfect on their own, but you can serve them with additional side dishes or sauces. Consider pairing them with warm bread, like ciabatta rolls or garlic breadsticks, for a complete meal. If you’re looking for a variation, try making a spicy version by adding some hot pepperoncini or chili flakes to the skewers.
Make Ahead: These skewers can be made up to 24 hours ahead of time. Just be sure to drizzle them with balsamic glaze or dressing just before serving to avoid sogginess.
Conclusion
Antipasto skewers are a fantastic way to bring a traditional Italian appetizer to the table in a modern, convenient form. With a colorful mix of ingredients like cheese tortellini, marinated artichoke hearts, olives, and fresh basil, these skewers offer a delightful combination of tangy, salty, and fresh flavors. Perfect for parties, picnics, or a quick snack, they’re a crowd-pleasing option that’s easy to prepare and even easier to enjoy. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or a simple weeknight gathering, these antipasto skewers are sure to elevate your appetizer game.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use different meats in the antipasto skewers?
Absolutely! While the recipe calls for salami and pepperoni, you can easily swap these for prosciutto, ham, or even turkey slices. Just choose your favorite cured meats to add the right amount of richness and flavor.
How long can I store antipasto skewers in the fridge?
Antipasto skewers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. They’re best eaten fresh but can still be enjoyed as leftovers in salads or as a snack.
Can I make antipasto skewers ahead of time?
Yes! These skewers can be made up to 24 hours in advance. To keep them fresh, simply assemble the skewers and store them in the fridge. Add any balsamic glaze or dressing just before serving to prevent sogginess.
What can I serve with antipasto skewers?
Antipasto skewers are delicious on their own, but you can serve them with warm bread (like garlic breadsticks or ciabatta rolls), a side of pesto, or balsamic vinegar for dipping. Pair them with a light salad or a refreshing drink for a complete meal.
More Relevant Recipes
- Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta
- Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup
- Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup
Antipasto Skewers
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 20 skewers
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Antipasto skewers are a quick, easy, and delicious appetizer made with cheese tortellini, cured meats, marinated vegetables, and fresh basil. They are perfect for any gathering, offering a flavorful combination of salty, tangy, and fresh ingredients all on a skewer for easy serving and eating.
Ingredients
- 20 cheese tortellini
- ½ cup Italian dressing
- 1 cup olives (about 20 pieces)
- ½ cup fresh basil leaves (about 20 leaves)
- 20 slices salami
- 1 pint grape tomatoes (about 20 tomatoes)
- 1 jar marinated artichoke hearts (about 20 pieces)
- 20 slices pepperoni
- 6 ounces cheddar cheese (or bocconcini mozzarella balls, cut into 1-inch pieces)
- 20 cocktail picks (6-inch wooden skewers)
Instructions
- Cook the tortellini according to package directions. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Toss with Italian dressing and refrigerate for 15 minutes to 2 hours to marinate.
- While the tortellini marinates, prepare the remaining ingredients: slice the meats, cut the cheese, and wash the tomatoes and basil.
- Arrange the ingredients in front of you for easy assembly.
- Thread the ingredients onto cocktail picks (or wooden skewers) in alternating order. Begin with an olive, followed by a basil leaf, tortellini, salami, tomato, artichoke heart, pepperoni, olive, and cheese.
- Serve immediately, or drizzle with balsamic glaze or serve with olive oil and balsamic vinegar on the side.
Notes
- Make sure to cook the tortellini al dente to avoid it becoming too soft after marinating.
- Feel free to customize the skewers with other ingredients like roasted red peppers, pickled mushrooms, or different cheese varieties.
- If making ahead, store the skewers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Add the glaze just before serving.
- These skewers are also great for quick salads using the leftover ingredients.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Assemble
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 skewer
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 15mg