Easy Antipasto Skewers Appetizer
Cooking is a creative outlet for me—I truly relish combining different flavors and visual elements to sculpt edible masterpieces. When my family and friends gather at my house, they can count on an antipasto tray. When I want to make things a little more interesting, antipasto skewers are one of my favorite easy skewer recipes. This twist on a classic Italian appetizer recipe is perfect for any gathering with family and friends!
So what the heck does “antipasto” mean, and what is it made of?
Antipasto means “before the meal” and is a sampling of small savory bites including things like olives, tomatoes, cheese, and salami. Antipasto is a deep-seated Italian tradition that my family loves to snack on before dinner time. You can imagine how pleased everyone was when I surprised them with this antipasto skewers appetizer one day!
Antipasto skewers with tortellini? It’s just more fun that way!
These antipasto skewers are super easy, delicious, and a great way to add some color to the table. I like to add marinated artichoke hearts and cheese tortellini to my antipasto skewers, along with classic items like salami, cheese, basil, and tomatoes. Tortellini may not be a classic antipasto dish, but they are so much fun on a skewer—unexpected, delightful, and delicious.
Antipasto skewers aren’t the only easy skewer recipe I’ve got.
Antipasto skewers are a good excuse to get creative, since you can include so many different elements, depending on what everyone likes. Whether you prefer vegetarian skewers or more meaty bites, the possibilities are endless. You can even experiment with different types of cheese or add a drizzle of balsamic glaze for an extra touch of elegance! Here’s another easy skewer recipe for you to try:
Do antipasto skewers need dressing?
I have included my Easy Italian Dressing in a Jar recipe to use as a topping, but in a pinch, just grab a bottle of your favorite premade oil and vinegar-based dressing. Each skewer is basically a portable salad on a stick, so a good dressing makes a difference.
Tips and Tricks for a Perfect Antipasto Skewer Appetizer
Most importantly, use fresh and high-quality ingredients for the best flavor. Fresh basil, ripe cherry tomatoes, and high-quality salami make a big difference. Next, mix and match different flavors and textures. The combination of creamy mozzarella, tangy marinated artichokes, and savory tortellini creates a delightful bite. And finally, go for a great presentation. Arrange your skewers on a beautiful platter before serving to make this appetizer recipe look as good as it tastes!
Yes, you can make antipasto skewers ahead of time.
You can make antipasto skewers ahead of time and keep them in the fridge for up to 4 hours just waiting for your guests to arrive. This makes them an ideal option for busy hosts who want to enjoy the party too.
Pair your antipasto skewers with a variety of dips and spreads. A simple olive tapenade, hummus, or even a spicy marinara sauce can complement the flavors wonderfully. Serve these easy skewer recipes alongside other appetizers like bruschetta, my roasted wild mushroom crostini recipe, or a charcuterie board to create a stunning and delicious appetizer spread.
Antipasto skewers are not just an appetizer but a statement piece that showcases your love for Italian traditions and flavors. They are a fun and interactive way to start any meal, making them a favorite at my gatherings. Whether it's a casual get-together or a festive celebration, these skewers are sure to impress your guests.
Want more summer recipes? Try these!
Easy Antipasto Skewers Appetizer Recipe
Ingredients
- ½ cup oil and vinegar-based Italian dressing or Mary’s Easy Italian Dressing in a Jar
- Twenty 8-inch long wooden skewers
- 1 (9 ounce) package frozen or refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 40 pitted Kalamata olives
- 40 grape tomatoes
- 40 thinly sliced pieces Genoa salami or your favorite salami
- 20 baby fresh mozzarella balls
- 60 fresh basil leaves
- 20 marinated artichoke heart quarters
Instructions
- If you’re making your own Italian dressing, prepare it now. Or better yet, make it ahead! My Easy Italian Dressing in a Jar recipe can be made up to 4 days ahead and kept stored in the refrigerator. Just bring it to room temperature for about 15 minutes before you want to use it.
- Prepare the tortellini according to the package directions. Most brands will take between 8 to 10 minutes to cook. Drain and rinse with cool water. Place the cooked tortellini in a mixing bowl and drizzle with ½ cup of the Italian dressing. Carefully mix to coat the tortellini. Refrigerate for at least 15 minutes and up to 4 hours. Any leftover tortellini can be tossed into a salad!
- Now it’s time to prepare the skewers. Have all of your ingredients lined up and ready to go. Start by threading an olive, tomato, folded basil leaf, tortellini, and folded salami slice onto a skewer. Continue the process by adding a mozzarella ball, tortellini, folded basil leaf, folded salami slice, artichoke heart, folded basil leaf, tomato, and olive. Remember, there are no “rules” regarding what items go where on the skewer, so feel free to have fun with them! Continue making all of the skewers.
- Serve on a large platter or cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 4 hours before serving.