There’s nothing quite like a crowd-pleasing appetizer that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor and visual appeal. This recipe for Antipasto Skewers fits that bill perfectly! Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together, a holiday celebration, or need a delicious dish for a potluck, these delightful little sticks of goodness are sure to be a hit. I first whipped them up for an esthetician’s birthday party, needing something light and refreshing that could withstand the Florida summer heat for a few hours. They were such a success that I immediately made them again for the Fourth of July with my family. Over the years, this particular combination has become my personal favorite, though the beauty of antipasto skewers lies in their incredible flexibility. Feel free to add, swap, or remove any ingredients to suit your taste or what you have on hand – that’s how truly easy these are to customize!

What Are Antipasto Skewers?

To truly appreciate antipasto skewers, it helps to understand their origins. “Antipasto” is an Italian word meaning “before the meal,” and it traditionally refers to the first course of a formal Italian meal. It’s an array of small, savory dishes designed to whet the appetite. Classic antipasto platters often feature cured meats, cheeses, marinated vegetables, olives, and sometimes seafood. Antipasto skewers take this beloved tradition and modernize it. By threading these delightful ingredients onto individual skewers, you create a portable, bite-sized appetizer that’s incredibly convenient for guests to enjoy. They eliminate the need for serving utensils and plates, making them perfect for mingling and easy cleanup.

Why Antipasto Skewers Are Your Go-To Appetizer

Beyond their ease and deliciousness, there are numerous reasons why antipasto skewers should be your top choice for any gathering:

• Incredible Versatility: These skewers are suitable for virtually any event. From elegant cocktail parties to relaxed backyard BBQs, holiday feasts, or even a simple family picnic, they adapt effortlessly to the occasion.
• Effortless Preparation: Most of the work involves assembling, with very little actual cooking required. This means less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your guests.
• Endless Customization: Got picky eaters? Dietary restrictions? No problem! You can easily swap ingredients to make them vegetarian, gluten-free (ensure tortellini is GF), or simply adjust to personal preferences.
• Perfectly Portable: Whether you’re taking them to a potluck or serving them outdoors, skewers are easy to transport and manage. They hold up well, making them ideal for picnics or tailgating events.
• Light & Refreshing: Especially during warmer months, these skewers offer a welcome alternative to heavy, fried appetizers. The fresh vegetables, cheeses, and tangy vinaigrette provide a burst of refreshing flavor.
• Visually Stunning: The vibrant colors of tomatoes, green and black olives, white mozzarella, and reddish meats create an incredibly attractive presentation on any platter. They truly are a feast for the eyes!

The Ultimate Antipasto Skewers Recipe

This recipe combines some of my favorite antipasto elements into a flavorful and easy-to-assemble skewer. Remember, while this combination is fantastic, feel free to use it as a starting point for your own culinary creativity!

Yields: Approximately 40-50 skewers

Ingredients:

• 1 (9 oz) package three-cheese tortellini: Cooked al dente according to package directions. The three-cheese variety offers a rich, satisfying base, but spinach or meat tortellini can also be used for a different flavor profile.
• 1 can (approx. 6 oz) whole pitted black olives: These provide a mild, slightly briny flavor and a nice contrast in color.
• 1 (5.75 oz) jar green olives: Opt for pimento-stuffed green olives for an extra pop of color and a sharper, saltier taste.
• 1 (8 oz) package fresh mozzarella balls: Look for small mozzarella pearls, often labeled “ciliegine” or “bocconcini,” found near the deli or specialty cheese section. Their soft texture and milky flavor are unbeatable.
• 1 pint grape tomatoes: Sweet, juicy, and vibrant, grape tomatoes add a burst of freshness and color. Cherry tomatoes also work well.
• 1 (6 oz) package salami: I prefer a good quality Italian salami (like Genoa salami) for its rich, savory notes. You can choose any brand or type you like; look for thinly sliced varieties for easier folding and skewering.
• 1 (6 oz) package pepperoni: Adds a delightful spicy kick and another layer of savory meatiness.
• 1 cup balsamic vinaigrette: A good quality store-bought balsamic vinaigrette works perfectly, or you can easily whip up your own with balsamic vinegar, olive oil, a touch of Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. This is crucial for marinating and infusing flavor.
• 1 package of wooden skewers: Typically, a package contains 50 skewers, which is perfect for this recipe. Bamboo skewers are generally preferred for appetizers.

To Make:

1. Prepare the Tortellini and Tomatoes: Begin by cooking the three-cheese tortellini according to the package instructions. Ensure it’s cooked al dente so it holds its shape on the skewer. Drain thoroughly and let it cool slightly. In a large bowl, combine the cooked tortellini and the fresh grape tomatoes.
2. Marinate for Flavor: Pour the balsamic vinaigrette over the tortellini and tomato mixture. Toss gently to ensure everything is evenly coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for 1 to 2 hours. This marination step is key – it allows the pasta and tomatoes to absorb the tangy, aromatic flavors of the dressing, elevating the taste of the entire skewer.
3. Drain Excess Vinaigrette: After marinating, drain any excess vinaigrette from the pasta and tomato mixture. While the dressing infuses flavor, too much liquid can make the skewers messy.
4. Assemble the Skewers: Now comes the fun part – assembly! Create a visually appealing and balanced skewer by alternating ingredients. Here’s a suggested order, but feel free to experiment:
   • Start with a piece of salami (folded or rolled).
   • Add a green olive.
   • Thread on a mozzarella ball. (I love cheese, so I often use two mozzarella balls per skewer, but adjust to your preference!)
   • Follow with a grape tomato.
   • Then a piece of pepperoni (folded).
   • Add a black olive.
   • Finish with a marinated tortellini.

   Continue this pattern until all ingredients are used or until your skewers are full. Aim for a colorful and varied look on each skewer.

5. Arrange and Serve: Once assembled, arrange the antipasto skewers artfully on a large platter. You can serve them immediately, or cover and chill them for up to a few hours before serving.

Creative Variations & Customizations

The beauty of antipasto skewers lies in their adaptability. Don’t hesitate to get creative with your ingredient choices:

• Vegetarian Delights: For a meat-free option, consider adding marinated artichoke hearts, roasted red bell peppers, sun-dried tomatoes, mushroom caps, cucumber slices, or even grilled zucchini.
• Meaty Additions: Prosciutto, capicola, smoked turkey, or even grilled chicken or shrimp can be fantastic additions.
• Cheese Choices: While fresh mozzarella is classic, cubes of provolone, cheddar, pepper jack, or feta cheese can offer different textures and flavors.
• Herbaceous Touches: A fresh basil leaf between ingredients not only adds a burst of green but also a fragrant, peppery note. Fresh oregano or parsley can also be used as a garnish.
• Dressing Alternatives: If balsamic vinaigrette isn’t your favorite, try a zesty Italian dressing, a homemade lemon-herb vinaigrette, or even a light pesto drizzle.
• Spice It Up: For those who love a bit of heat, consider adding a small pickled pepperoncini or a slice of cherry pepper.
• Seasonal Twists: In the summer, small cubes of watermelon or cantaloupe can provide an unexpected sweet and refreshing element.

Tips for Success

To ensure your antipasto skewers are absolutely perfect every time, keep these tips in mind:

• Quality Ingredients Matter: Since there’s minimal cooking, the flavor of your skewers heavily relies on the quality and freshness of your ingredients. Opt for good quality meats, fresh cheeses, and ripe vegetables.
• Don’t Overcook Tortellini: Overcooked pasta will be mushy and won’t hold up well on the skewer. Stick to al dente!
• Marinate Properly: The marination step is not just for flavor; it also helps moisten the pasta and tomatoes, making them more enjoyable. Don’t skip it!
• Chill Before Serving: Serving the skewers well-chilled enhances their refreshing quality, especially in warmer weather.
• Presentation is Key: Arrange your skewers on a beautiful platter or in a tall glass for an impressive display. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
• Food Safety: If serving outdoors or in a warm environment, keep the skewers on ice or ensure they are consumed within a safe time frame, especially given the presence of cheese and meats.
• Prep Ahead: Most components can be prepped a day in advance. Cook the tortellini, chop vegetables, and slice meats. Store them separately in the refrigerator and assemble the skewers a few hours before your event.

These antipasto skewers are truly a gem in the world of appetizers – simple to make, incredibly delicious, and endlessly customizable. They are proof that entertaining can be easy and elegant without sacrificing flavor. So go ahead, whip up a batch for your next gathering, and watch them disappear!

Enjoy!

XOXO,
Nichole