These Italian Antipasto Skewers are a colorful mix of tasty bites! Picture juicy tomatoes, savory salami, creamy cheese, and crunchy olives all stacked on a stick. Yum!
They make a great snack or appetizer for any gathering. I love how easy they are to make—just grab your favorite ingredients and skewer them. Everyone loves them, and they’re always a party hit!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salami: I love using salami for its rich flavor, but you can swap it with prosciutto or pepperoni if you prefer something different. Vegetarian? Try marinated artichokes or roasted peppers!
Cherry Tomatoes: Cherry tomatoes add a burst of freshness. Consider using grape tomatoes or even olives if you’re not a fan of tomatoes. Roasted tomatoes give a lovely sweetness!
Olives: Kalamata olives bring a bold taste, but green olives or even stuffed olives work too. For a milder option, you can use black olives.
Cheese: Fresh mozzarella is my top choice for its creaminess. You could substitute with feta, provolone, or even vegan cheese for a dairy-free version.
Crostini: These are optional but add a nice crunch. You can use any toasted bread or skip it altogether. Instead, serve with bread on the side!
How Do I Roast Cherry Tomatoes Perfectly?
Roasting cherry tomatoes intensifies their sweetness and flavor. Here’s how to get them just right:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place washed cherry tomatoes on a baking sheet.
- Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
- Roast for 10-12 minutes, until they start to blister.
Let them cool slightly before adding to your skewers. Trust me, they make a big difference in flavor!
Italian Antipasto Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Skewers:
- 12 slices of salami or Italian cured meat, rolled
- 24 cherry tomatoes (some roasted or fresh)
- 24 Kalamata olives (black olives)
- 24 green olives (pitted)
- 12 small cubes of fresh mozzarella or marinated feta cheese
- 12 mini toasted bread rounds or crostini (optional)
For Serving:
- Fresh parsley or basil, for garnish
- Olive oil, for drizzling
- Italian seasoning or dried oregano, for sprinkling
- Fresh arugula or mixed greens (for serving on the tray)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time. If you roast the cherry tomatoes, add an extra 12 minutes for roasting. You can serve them immediately, making this a quick and easy appetizer!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Roast the Tomatoes (Optional):
If you prefer roasted tomatoes for added sweetness, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread the cherry tomatoes on a baking sheet, drizzle with a little olive oil, and roast for 10-12 minutes until they’re slightly blistered. Let them cool before using.
2. Assemble the Skewers:
Grab your skewers and start building a delicious combination. Begin by sliding one rolled slice of salami onto the skewer. Then, add a roasted or fresh cherry tomato followed by a Kalamata olive. Next, add a cube of mozzarella or feta cheese, and finish this section with a green olive.
3. Repeat and Fill the Skewer:
Continue repeating the sequence of salami, tomato, olive, cheese, and green olive until the skewer is full. Feel free to end it with another tomato or salami roll on top for a nice finishing touch.
4. Add Crostini for Crunch (Optional):
If you like, top some of the skewers with mini toasted bread rounds or crostini. It adds a nice crunchy texture that pairs perfectly with the other ingredients!
5. Arrange and Serve:
On a beautiful serving tray or platter, lay down some fresh arugula or mixed greens as a bed for your skewers. Place the assembled skewers on top. Drizzle a little olive oil over them and sprinkle with Italian seasoning or dried oregano for added flavor.
6. Final Touches:
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or basil for a pop of color and freshness. And there you go, your Italian Antipasto Skewers are ready to impress!
Serve immediately and enjoy the delicious mix of flavors. Perfect for parties or as a tasty treat anytime!
Can I Substitute the Salami with a Different Meat?
Absolutely! If you prefer a different flavor, prosciutto or pepperoni work great as substitutes. For a vegetarian option, consider using marinated artichokes or roasted peppers.
How Do I Store Leftover Skewers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To keep them fresh, it’s best to separate any moist ingredients, like tomatoes, from the cheese and meats.
Can I Make These Skewers Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the skewers a few hours in advance. Just keep them covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve. Avoid drizzling the olive oil and adding seasoning until just before serving to keep them looking fresh.
What Can I Serve with Antipasto Skewers?
These skewers are fantastic on their own, but you can serve them with a side of crusty Italian bread, a fresh salad, or a dipping sauce like balsamic glaze for added flavor!
