Say hello to your party platter’s new secret weapon: Antipasto Skewers. Loaded with vibrant Italian flavors, these fun and colorful bites feature tangy marinated tortellini, salami, prosciutto, creamy cheeses, veggies, and olives—all perfectly arranged on easy-to-grab skewers. Whether you’re feeding a hungry crowd or looking for a make-ahead appetizer, these skewers steal the show every time.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Crowd-Pleaser: There’s something for everyone—savory meats, creamy cheeses, and zesty veggies—all arranged in a single, irresistible bite.
- No-Fuss & Portable: These skewers are totally mess-free and perfect for picnics, potlucks, or any gathering where you want a stylish make-ahead appetizer.
- Brilliant Color & Texture: Between the jewel-toned tomatoes, roasted peppers, and vibrant basil, Antipasto Skewers are gorgeous from platter to plate.
- Endlessly Customizable: Swap, mix, or match ingredients to suit your cravings—these skewers are as flexible as your fridge allows!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every single ingredient in these Antipasto Skewers packs a punch—bringing salt, tang, creaminess, or pop to every bite. Simple to prep and so easy to find, they work together to create a seriously mouthwatering Italian-inspired appetizer.
- Cheese tortellini: Tender pasta pillows add heartiness and soak up so much flavor when marinated in the zesty dressing.
- Large olives (Castelvetrano or kalamata): Choose your favorite—green Castelvetranos for buttery crunch, or Kalamatas for a rich, briny punch.
- Cherry tomatoes: Bursting with sweetness and juicy freshness, they balance the richness of the meats and cheeses.
- Genoa salami & prosciutto: Classic Italian cured meats bring salty, savory notes and luscious texture to every skewer.
- Baby mozzarella balls: Creamy and mild, these little bites bathe in the herby dressing for an irresistible silkiness.
- Sharp provolone cheese: A little cube packs a bold, tangy punch and keeps things interesting alongside the mozzarella.
- Basil leaves: Freshly torn basil gives a fragrant pop of color and that unmistakably fresh Italian aroma.
- Chopped artichoke hearts: Their gentle tang and tender texture add sophistication to every bite.
- Roasted red peppers: Sweet, smoky, and vibrant—these peppers brighten up the skewer both visually and flavor-wise.
- Homemade vinaigrette: A lively blend of olive oil, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, honey, basil, and garlic ties it all together in one fabulous marinade.
- Wooden skewers: The humble heroes that hold together your edible masterpiece—make sure they’re sturdy and long enough for all your goodies!
Variations
The beauty of Antipasto Skewers is how easy they are to swap and customize! Adjust your ingredients to fit dietary needs, meal themes, or whatever you have on hand in your fridge or pantry.
- Vegetarian Twist: Skip the meats and double up on roasted veggies, marinated mushrooms, or extra cheese for a hearty, meat-free version.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute gluten-free tortellini, or use chunks of marinated zucchini or cucumber instead for the pasta layer.
- Different Cheeses: Try cubes of smoked gouda, pepper jack, or even marinated feta to shake up the flavor profile.
- Mediterranean Flair: Add sun-dried tomatoes, pepperoncini, or pickled onions for a tangy Mediterranean-inspired spin.
How to Make Antipasto Skewers
Step 1: Make the Dressing & Marinate
Blend or whisk together the olive oil, freshly squeezed lemon juice, red wine vinegar, honey, chopped basil, garlic, salt, and pepper—this vibrant dressing is both a marinade and finishing drizzle. Toss your cooked, cooled tortellini and baby mozzarella balls with about 1/3 cup of this vinaigrette, then chill in the fridge for at least 15 minutes (or up to 4 hours) so every bite soaks up loads of zesty flavor.
Step 2: Prep & Chop Your Goodies
Halve your olives if they’re especially large, chop up the roasted red peppers, and tear the basil leaves so their fresh aroma really shines. Set aside your slices of salami and prosciutto, and cube your provolone for even skewer spacing. Laying everything out assembly-line style makes building each skewer a breeze.
Step 3: Thread & Assemble Skewers
Layer the ingredients onto your wooden skewers in whatever order you love—tortellini, olive, tomato, a folded slice each of salami and prosciutto, a mozzarella ball, cube of provolone, basil, artichoke, and a piece of red pepper. Alternate for variety, or keep them all matching for a picture-perfect presentation. Repeat until all the skewers are assembled.
Step 4: Arrange, Dress & Serve
Arrange your finished Antipasto Skewers on a big platter. Just before serving, drizzle with extra vinaigrette for an extra burst of flavor and shine. Watch as everyone goes back for seconds—these skewers are simply irresistible!
Pro Tips for Making Antipasto Skewers
- Marinate for Maximum Flavor: Let the tortellini and mozzarella sit in the dressing for as long as possible to soak up all those bright, herby notes.
- Assembly Line Magic: Arrange all your ingredients in rows before threading to save time and keep presentation neat—this also lets you mix and match with ease!
- Skewer Safety: If serving kids or want a more elegant look, snip the sharp ends of the skewers after assembly or use decorative cocktail picks.
- Extra Vinaigrette Wins: Don’t forget a generous finishing drizzle of dressing just before serving—the shine and fresh taste make every skewer pop!
How to Serve Antipasto Skewers
Garnishes
A sprinkle of flaky sea salt, cracked pepper, or extra torn basil leaves adds a pretty finishing touch. Lemon zest or a pinch of chili flakes can give your Antipasto Skewers a citrusy spark or gentle heat, elevating their look and flavor even more.
Side Dishes
Serve your skewers with a basket of warm, crusty bread, a bright green salad, or a big bowl of marinated veggies. They make the perfect centerpiece for an Italian-style grazing board alongside nuts, fruit, or even a small dish of extra vinaigrette for dipping.
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange Antipasto Skewers in concentric circles on a platter for stunning visual impact, or stand them upright in a decorative vase or glass for easy grabbing at parties. For a more intimate gathering, serve them on individual plates with a swirl of extra dressing and a basil leaf for restaurant-style flair.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Antipasto Skewers will keep beautifully covered in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. Arrange them in a single layer on a tray or flat container and seal tightly to keep the flavors fresh and the skewers from drying out.
Freezing
Freezing isn’t recommended for these skewers, as the fresh veggies, cheese, and tortellini tend to lose their texture once thawed. For the best results, assemble them fresh—but thankfully, assembly is quick and easy!
Reheating
No reheating needed—Antipasto Skewers are at their best served chilled or at cool room temperature. Just let them sit out for about 10 minutes before guests arrive, so the flavors can shine.
FAQs
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Can I assemble Antipasto Skewers the night before?
Absolutely! You can assemble the skewers up to 24 hours in advance. Store them tightly covered in the refrigerator, and wait until just before serving to drizzle on a little extra vinaigrette to keep everything vibrant and fresh.
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What can I substitute for cheese tortellini?
If you’re looking for a swap, try mini ravioli, or keep it simple with small mozzarella balls, marinated artichoke hearts, or even rolled-up grilled zucchini slices for a pasta-free version.
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How can I make Antipasto Skewers vegetarian or vegan?
Go vegetarian by omitting the meats and doubling up on veggies and cheese. To make them vegan, skip meat and cheese, and use a hearty mix of marinated mushrooms, olives, eggplant, and extra roasted peppers with a vegan pasta and dressing.
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What type of skewers should I use?
Long wooden skewers (about 8 to 10 inches) work perfectly. Just be sure they’re sturdy enough to hold all the goodies, and if you’re assembling ahead, soak them briefly in water to prevent any possibility of splintering.
Final Thoughts
I just know you’re going to fall in love with these colorful, flavor-packed Antipasto Skewers! They’re as festive as they are satisfying, and always disappear fast at the table. Don’t hesitate to make them your own—and don’t be surprised if you’re asked for the recipe at your next gathering!
Print
Antipasto Skewers Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 20 skewers 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Skewering, Mixing
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Antipasto Skewers are a colorful and flavorful appetizer perfect for any gathering. They feature a variety of delicious ingredients like tortellini, olives, tomatoes, meats, cheeses, and a homemade dressing that ties everything together beautifully.
Ingredients
For the Skewers:
- 20 long wooden skewers
- 1 16 ounce package cheese tortellini
- 40 large olives (Castelvetranos or kalamata)
- 40 plump cherry tomatoes
- 40 thin slices Genoa salami
- 40 thin slices prosciutto
- 20 baby mozzarella balls
- 20 cubes sharp provolone cheese
- 40 pieces basil, torn
- 20 pieces chopped artichoke hearts
- 2 roasted red peppers, seeds removed, chopped into small pieces
For the Dressing:
- 1/2 cup (113ml) olive oil
- 3 Tablespoons (42ml) freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1/2 cup loosely packed fresh basil
- 2 Tablespoons (28ml) red wine vinegar
- 1 Tablespoon (18ml) honey
- 2 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 3/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Cook the tortellini: Cook tortellini according to package directions; drain and rinse in cold water. Toss in dressing.
- Assemble skewers: Thread tortellini, olives, tomatoes, meats, cheeses, peppers, basil, and artichokes onto skewers. Arrange on a serving platter and drizzle with more vinaigrette.
- Make the Dressing: Combine all dressing ingredients in a blender or food processor. Adjust seasonings as needed.
- Prepare in advance: Combine tortellini and mozzarella balls with 1/3 cup of dressing. Refrigerate for at least 15 minutes.
Notes
- Double the recipe as needed.
- Recipe may be halved.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 skewer
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
