Antipasto Skewers are more than just a simple snack; they are a vibrant celebration of authentic Italian flavors, meticulously arranged on a convenient stick. Whether you’re hosting a lively summer get-together, firing up the grill for a relaxed backyard BBQ, or preparing for a festive holiday feast, these colorful and delicious skewers promise to be the undisputed star appetizer. Each bite offers a harmonious blend of your favorite Italian-style ingredients, from juicy cherry tomatoes and briny olives to savory salami, tender tortellini, creamy fresh mozzarella, and sweet roasted red peppers, all brightened with fresh basil and finished with a delectable honey balsamic drizzle. These easy-to-make antipasto kabobs are designed for effortless entertaining, offering both stunning visual appeal and irresistible taste that will impress every guest.
For those who deeply appreciate the rich, diverse flavors of Italian antipasto, this recipe for delightful skewers is an absolute dream come true. These individual antipasto bites are generously loaded with an assortment of your most cherished ingredients. Imagine the rich, salty notes of Kalamata olives mingling with the succulence and slight sweetness of roasted red peppers. Picture the delicate creaminess of fresh mozzarella complementing the zesty kick of thinly sliced salami. Envision the comforting, chewy texture of tortellini perfectly paired with the sweet pop of cherry tomatoes and the aromatic freshness of basil. Every component is carefully chosen and thoughtfully combined to create a symphony of tastes and textures that will tantalize your taste buds and leave everyone craving more.
One of the many compelling reasons to adore these appetizer skewers is their incredible versatility as a party food. Not only do they serve as an impressive and visually appealing centerpiece for any gathering, but they also offer a fantastic and practical opportunity to utilize those delicious leftover ingredients that might be lingering in your fridge. This makes them both economical and incredibly convenient, especially for busy hosts looking to minimize waste and maximize flavor. They’re a clever solution for transforming various tidbits into a cohesive, gourmet-looking snack.
Planning ahead for your event has never been easier! These antipasto skewers are your ultimate ally when it comes to make-ahead preparations. You can effortlessly prepare them a full day or two in advance, arrange them on a platter, cover them tightly with plastic wrap, and store them securely in the refrigerator until your guests begin to arrive. Their robust nature ensures they hold up beautifully, maintaining their freshness, vibrant appearance, and delicious taste. However, a crucial tip for successful make-ahead preparation: always hold off on adding that exquisite honey balsamic drizzle until just moments before you’re ready to serve. This ensures that the dressing enhances the flavors at their peak, preventing any sogginess and keeping all ingredients perfectly crisp and vibrant.
If you’re already a dedicated fan of these Italian-inspired delights and looking to expand your culinary repertoire, you might also enjoy exploring some of our other highly popular antipasto recipes. Be sure to check out our rave-reviewed Italian Tortellini Salad, the refreshing and colorful Mediterranean Antipasto Skewers, and the timeless classic Italian Pasta Salad. These recipes consistently receive enthusiastic feedback and are perfect complements to your collection of go-to dishes for entertaining or everyday enjoyment.
Why Antipasto Skewers Are Your Go-To Appetizer
These antipasto skewers are more than just easy to make; they are a revelation in convenience, flavor, and stunning presentation. Here’s a deeper dive into why you’ll want to add this versatile and delicious recipe to your regular rotation, making it a staple for all your entertaining needs:
- Effortlessly Easy and Quick to Assemble: Preparing these skewers is astonishingly simple and incredibly fast. You’ll be genuinely amazed at how quickly you can create a show-stopping appetizer that looks like it took hours. By simply laying out all your prepared ingredients on a large cutting board, you can thread these vibrant skewers in under 20 minutes from start to finish. This makes them the absolute perfect solution for unexpected last-minute guests or when you need a stress-free party food that doesn’t compromise on elegance or taste. It’s truly a no-fuss recipe with maximum impact.
- Ideal for Entertaining Any Size Crowd: When faced with the delightful challenge of feeding a large group, these antipasto skewers truly shine as a superior choice. They are substantial enough to feel like a satisfying mini-meal on a stick, effectively curbing hunger without being overly heavy. Each skewer thoughtfully provides a balanced bite of protein, carbohydrates, and fresh vegetables, making them a universally loved item on any party menu. Their individual portioning also makes them hygienic and easy for guests to grab and enjoy, ensuring they are consistently a crowd-pleaser and disappear quickly from the platter.
- A Visually Stunning and Colorful Addition to Your Table: Beyond their incredible taste, these skewers are an absolute feast for the eyes. When I’m hosting a holiday meal, a casual brunch, or a lively backyard barbecue, I always prioritize including bright, colorful dishes that add to the festive atmosphere. These antipasto skewers deliver exactly that! The vibrant reds of juicy cherry tomatoes and sweet roasted red peppers, the creamy white of fresh mozzarella, the rich greens of olives and aromatic basil, and the subtle, inviting hues of tender tortellini create a magnificent rainbow of colors. They add an undeniable touch of elegance, sophistication, and pure festivity to any table spread, effortlessly elevating the overall aesthetic of your meal and leaving a lasting impression on your guests.
- Infinitely Customizable and Versatile: One of the greatest and most celebrated advantages of antipasto skewers is their unparalleled adaptability. While our recipe provides a fantastic and foolproof foundation, you can easily swap out or add ingredients to suit various dietary preferences, leverage seasonal availability, or simply to make the most of what you already have on hand in your pantry or fridge. This incredible flexibility means you can effortlessly create a unique and exciting version every single time you make them, ensuring they never get boring and always feel fresh and exciting.
- The Perfect Make-Ahead Option for Stress-Free Hosting: As previously highlighted, these skewers are absolutely fantastic for preparing in advance. This invaluable benefit frees up a significant amount of your precious time on the day of your event, allowing you to gracefully focus on other crucial preparations, enjoy moments of relaxation, or simply mingle and savor quality time with your arriving guests. Their proven ability to hold up exceptionally well when stored correctly in the fridge guarantees that fresh, delicious, and ready-to-serve appetizers are always on hand exactly when you need them, without any last-minute rush.
Essential Antipasto Skewer Ingredients
Crafting the perfect antipasto skewer begins with the meticulous selection of high-quality, fresh ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in creating the harmonious balance of flavors and textures that make these Italian bites so irresistible. Here’s a detailed look at what you’ll need to create your own:
While the detailed recipe card at the end of this article provides exact measurements and comprehensive step-by-step instructions, gaining a deeper understanding of each component will empower you to confidently customize and perfect your skewers, ensuring they perfectly match your taste and preferences.
- Cheese Tortellini: For an optimal experience, I highly recommend using a high-quality cheese tortellini. While any variety will certainly work, I often lean towards fresh tortellini found in the deli or refrigerated section of your local grocery store. These often offer a superior texture and a more robust flavor profile compared to their frozen counterparts. Don’t hesitate to experiment with spinach or meat-filled tortellini if you’re looking for different flavor dimensions. The key is to ensure it’s cooked perfectly al dente – tender with a slight bite – and thoroughly cooled before you begin threading.
- Fresh Mozzarella Balls (Bocconcini or Ciliegine): The delicate, creamy, and subtly milky flavor of fresh mozzarella is an absolutely essential component of these skewers. Small, bite-sized mozzarella balls, often conveniently labeled bocconcini (roughly cherry-sized) or ciliegine (smaller, pearl-sized), are ideally suited for skewers. Their soft, yielding texture and fresh taste perfectly complement and balance the other more robust flavors. For an added layer of gastronomic delight, actively seek out marinated mozzarella balls often packed in herbed oil; they introduce a wonderful zest and an extra burst of flavor without requiring any additional effort.
- Olives (Green and Kalamata): A thoughtful combination of both green and Kalamata olives is paramount, as it introduces both a satisfying salty punch and a beautiful contrast in color and flavor. Green olives, particularly those generously stuffed with pimento or cheese, typically provide a milder, buttery, and slightly briny flavor. Kalamata olives, on the other hand, contribute a richer, fruitier, and notably more intense briny taste, adding depth. Feel completely free to explore and incorporate other olive varieties such as the bright, mild Castelvetrano or classic black olives to discover your ultimate favorite combination.
- Salami: Thinly sliced salami is a fantastic and highly recommended addition, offering a delightful savory, slightly spicy, and distinctly textural element to each skewer. Its robust and assertive flavor stands up remarkably well against the other ingredients, ensuring its presence is felt. Opt for a good quality genoa or hard salami. For significantly easier threading and a more polished presentation, gently roll or fold the salami slices before carefully adding them to the skewers. If you are catering to vegetarian guests or simply prefer a meat-free option, you can easily and simply omit the salami or substitute it with any suitable plant-based alternatives.
- Roasted Red Peppers: These incredibly vibrant and sweet peppers are a wonderful addition, bringing a distinct sweet, smoky, and subtly tangy note to the mix, along with a truly stunning pop of rich color. Jarred roasted red peppers are perfectly convenient and efficient; just remember to thoroughly drain them and slice them into manageable, bite-sized pieces. For an even deeper and more complex flavor profile, you might consider using fire-roasted red peppers, which impart an extra layer of char and smokiness.
- Cherry Tomatoes: Fresh, ripe, and plump cherry tomatoes burst with sweet juiciness, providing a refreshing and much-needed counterpoint to the richer, savory ingredients. They can be used whole for quick and easy assembly, or for smaller, more delicate bites, you can simply cut them in half and thread them. Alternatively, if cherry tomatoes are not readily available, larger, firmer tomatoes can be expertly cut into robust, appealing chunks. Grape tomatoes also perform wonderfully and offer a similar sweet burst of flavor.
- Fresh Basil: Fragrant, verdant basil leaves are an absolutely non-negotiable component of these Italian-inspired skewers. They infuse each bite with their characteristic sweet, slightly peppery, and highly aromatic essence, instantly transporting your palate to the sunny heart of Italy. Use whole, fresh leaves for maximum visual impact and flavor, or if the leaves are particularly large, gently tear them into smaller, more manageable pieces for easier threading and consumption.
- Fresh Parsley & Green Onions (for Garnish/Dressing): These additional fresh herbs play a crucial role, adding another layer of herbaceous brightness and a vibrant green visual appeal to the finished skewers. Fresh parsley offers a clean, distinctly peppery note, which cuts through richness, while thinly sliced green onions provide a subtle, mild, and wonderfully oniony zest, enhancing the overall freshness and complexity of the dish.
Creative Ways to Customize Your Antipasto Skewers
The inherent beauty of antipasto skewers lies in their incredible adaptability and versatility. This allows you to truly unleash your creativity and tailor these delightful kabobs to your personal taste preferences, accommodate various dietary needs, or simply make the most of the ingredients you conveniently have available in your pantry or refrigerator. Here are some fantastic and inspiring ways to modify and personalize this recipe, ensuring every batch is uniquely yours:
- Explore Diverse Olive Varieties: While a mix of green and Kalamata olives forms a delicious and traditional base, do not hesitate to embark on an adventurous culinary journey and experiment with other types! If olives are not a favored ingredient, you can, of course, omit them entirely. For an exciting burst of flavor and texture, consider incorporating cheese-stuffed olives, savory pimento-stuffed olives, or even a nuanced blend of black olives for a milder, earthier touch. Marinated olives, pre-infused with herbs and spices, will also contribute an extra layer of seasoned goodness with minimal effort.
- Alternate Cheese Options: While fresh mozzarella is undoubtedly wonderful and classic, feel absolutely free to swap it out or combine it with other cheeses. Cubed firm cheeses like sharp cheddar, creamy provolone, nutty Swiss, or even a spicy pepper jack can introduce interesting and unexpected twists to the flavor profile. Marinated feta cubes would also be an exceptionally delightful addition, particularly if you are inclined towards a more Mediterranean-inspired twist. For a truly authentic and sophisticated Italian touch, small cubes of aged provolone or finely diced Parmesan would be exquisitely flavorful and texturally appealing.
- Diverse Meat Selections: Salami brings a classic and beloved Italian flavor, but your options for cured meats are virtually endless. Consider incorporating thinly sliced pepperoni for a spicier, more assertive kick, or opting for delicately folded slices of smoked turkey or ham for a milder, more delicate protein profile. For a truly gourmet and elegant feel, artfully arranged pieces of prosciutto offer a salty, savory indulgence. Cooked and thoroughly cooled shrimp or tender grilled chicken pieces can also be a surprisingly delicious and lighter seafood or poultry addition. For an even richer and bolder flavor, explore capicola or sopressata.
- Aromatic Fresh Herbs: While fresh basil is paramount and quintessential for achieving authentic Italian flavors, a thoughtful blend of various fresh herbs can truly elevate and complexify your skewers. Beyond basil, consider integrating small sprigs or leaves of fresh parsley for a clean, peppery lift, vibrant mint for a surprisingly refreshing note, aromatic oregano for an earthy undertone, or delicate thyme for a subtle, woody aroma. I personally adore threading whole basil leaves directly onto the skewers for their immediate visual appeal and fresh burst, and then generously sprinkling finely chopped mixed herbs over the finished product for an aromatic and vibrant flourish.
- Additional Vegetable Varieties: Expand both the nutritional value and the captivating visual appeal of your skewers with an even wider array of fresh vegetables. Marinated artichoke hearts, with their delightful tang, are an excellent choice. Mild pepperoncini peppers or banana peppers can introduce a pleasant, subtle zing. Crisp chunks of various bell peppers (red, yellow, or orange) provide wonderful crunch and additional vibrant color. Thinly sliced cucumbers or refreshing zucchini can offer a cooling counterpoint, especially enjoyable during warmer months. Carefully grilled asparagus spears or perfectly marinated mushrooms are also superb and sophisticated choices that add depth and texture.
- Enhance with Different Dressings: Our honey balsamic drizzle is a perfect and well-balanced complement to these skewers, but you certainly have a plethora of other dressing options to explore. A zesty and herbaceous Italian dressing, a simple and elegant drizzle of high-quality balsamic vinegar (or my personal favorite, a rich and luscious balsamic glaze for a thicker, sweeter, and more intense finish), or a light and refreshing lemon herb vinaigrette would all be incredibly delicious and complementary. For a truly minimalist and purest approach, a generous drizzle of a good quality extra virgin olive oil paired with a simple sprinkle of sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper can be all you need to truly highlight and celebrate the natural, inherent flavors of each ingredient. You could also experiment with a vibrant pesto drizzle for an herbaceous burst of Italian garden freshness!
Mastering the Assembly of Your Antipasto Skewers
Assembling these beautiful and delicious antipasto skewers is a surprisingly straightforward and enjoyable process. With a few thoughtful tips, you can ensure they are not only incredibly delicious but also visually appealing and easy for your guests to enjoy. Here’s your detailed, step-by-step guide to achieving skewer perfection, guaranteed to impress every time:
Step 1: Prepare the Tortellini for Threading
Begin your antipasto skewer journey by carefully cooking your chosen tortellini according to the specific package directions. It is absolutely essential to cook it until it reaches that perfect al dente stage – meaning it should be tender enough to eat comfortably but still retain a slight, satisfying firmness to the bite. While the tortellini is cooking away, seize this opportune moment to get meticulously organized. Lay out all your other prepared ingredients on a spacious, clean cutting board or a dedicated counter space. This “mise en place” approach, where everything is in its place, will make the subsequent assembly process flow much smoother and significantly faster. Once the tortellini is perfectly cooked, drain it thoroughly, ensuring no excess water remains, and then allow it to cool completely to room temperature before you even think about proceeding. A quick rinse under cold water can dramatically speed up the cooling process and effectively prevent the tortellini from sticking together, ensuring individual, perfectly shaped pasta pieces for your skewers.
Step 2: Expertly Assemble Each Skewer
This is precisely where your culinary creativity truly comes into play! While there isn’t a single, strict rule for the precise order of ingredients, a thoughtful and artistic arrangement will undoubtedly create a visually stunning skewer that is both appetizing and ensures a perfectly balanced bite every single time. A fantastic and practical starting point for each skewer is a firm, juicy cherry tomato, which provides an excellent, stable base. Follow this with a vibrant green olive and a rich Kalamata olive, offering a delightful briny contrast. Next, carefully thread a piece of the cooled, tender tortellini, followed by a neatly folded slice of sweet roasted red pepper and a fresh, aromatic basil leaf. Then, introduce a creamy, milky fresh mozzarella ball. To complete your masterpiece, repeat a similar sequence: add another piece of tortellini, two more contrasting olives, and finish with another delightful cherry tomato. Feel completely free to vary this order and experiment with your own unique patterns and combinations, always aiming to ensure a delightful mix of flavors and textures in every single bite. The goal is a captivating medley of colors and complementary textures threaded harmoniously throughout each skewer.
Step 3: Craft the Delectable Honey Balsamic Dressing
In a small, clean mason jar or a convenient bowl equipped with a whisk, meticulously combine all the ingredients for your exquisite dressing: the golden honey, rich extra virgin olive oil, tangy balsamic vinegar, finely chopped fresh herbs (such as fragrant parsley, earthy oregano, and additional fresh basil for depth), a generous pinch of sea salt, and a dash of freshly cracked black pepper. If using a mason jar, secure the lid tightly and shake vigorously until all the ingredients are thoroughly combined and beautifully emulsified, forming a cohesive dressing. If using a bowl, whisk diligently until the same smooth consistency is achieved. Taste the dressing and don’t hesitate to adjust the seasonings as needed – perhaps a little more honey for a touch of sweetness, or an extra splash of balsamic for a bolder tang. This carefully crafted dressing adds a crucial and unifying layer of flavor, effortlessly tying all the diverse ingredients together with its perfect sweet and tangy finish.
Step 4: Drizzle Generously and Serve with Flair
Once all your antipasto skewers are expertly assembled, artfully arrange them on a large, attractive serving platter, ensuring each skewer has ample space to shine. Just moments before you intend to serve these culinary delights, generously drizzle the freshly prepared honey balsamic dressing over all the skewers. Ensure that each ingredient receives a delicate coating, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. For an extra touch of irresistible freshness and enhanced visual appeal, consider lightly sprinkling a little more finely chopped fresh herbs over the top of the drizzled skewers. Serve these delightful antipasto skewers immediately for the absolute best experience, allowing your guests to savor their vibrant flavors and fresh textures. If you’ve wisely prepared them ahead of time, simply retrieve them from the refrigerator (remembering to add the dressing at this final stage) and serve with confidence.
Expert Tips for Crafting Perfect Antipasto Skewers
Elevate your antipasto skewer game with these invaluable tips and tricks, designed to ensure every bite is bursting with flavor and every presentation is stunning:
- Prioritize Quality Ingredients: The golden rule for any simple, ingredient-focused dish applies here: the fresher and higher quality your ingredients, the more spectacular your skewers will taste. Always opt for perfectly ripe tomatoes, vibrant fresh basil, and the best quality cheeses and cured meats you can find.
- Achieve Flavor and Texture Balance: When you’re assembling each skewer, think strategically about how each individual ingredient contributes to the overall bite. Strive for a harmonious mix of salty, sweet, tangy, and savory elements, complemented by a variety of textures ranging from firm and crunchy to soft and creamy.
- Avoid Overcrowding Your Skewers: While it might be tempting to load up each skewer, resist the urge to pack them too tightly. Leaving a little space between each ingredient allows for easier handling and ensures that your delicious dressing can thoroughly coat everything evenly. Furthermore, ensure there’s enough room at the bottom of the skewer for guests to hold them comfortably without getting their fingers messy.
- Vary Skewer Lengths for Visual Interest: For a more dynamic and visually engaging presentation, consider using skewers of varying lengths. Alternatively, if you’re working with standard bamboo skewers, you can easily cut them to different sizes to fit your serving platter creatively.
- Thoroughly Chill for Optimal Flavor: While these skewers are certainly delicious served immediately, a brief chill in the refrigerator (at least 30 minutes) before serving allows all the wonderful flavors to meld together beautifully and intensely. Just remember our golden rule: if you’ve prepared them ahead of time, always hold off on the dressing until just before serving.
- Creative Serving Platters and Arrangement: Don’t just stack them! Arrange your skewers creatively on large, elegant platters, rustic wooden trays, or for a surprisingly unique presentation, stand them upright in tall, narrow glasses or vases. A vibrant bed of fresh arugula, baby spinach, or delicate lettuce leaves can make the colors of your skewers pop even more, adding an extra layer of freshness.
Smart Storage Tips for Leftover Antipasto Skewers
These delightful antipasto kabobs are not only excellent for immediate serving but also hold up remarkably well, making them fantastic for convenient meal prep throughout the week or for savoring delicious leftovers. To ensure their freshness, store the assembled skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you’ve already drizzled them with the dressing, the ingredients might soften slightly over time, but rest assured, the flavors will deepen beautifully and become even more harmonious. If you’re serving them again after storage, consider adding a fresh drizzle of the honey balsamic dressing or a dash of newly chopped fresh herbs to revive their vibrancy and make them taste freshly prepared.
Antipasto Skewers: Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these antipasto skewers ahead of time?
Absolutely! These skewers are a fantastic make-ahead appetizer, perfect for reducing stress on party day. You can easily assemble them up to 24 hours in advance. To store them, simply cover the serving platter tightly with plastic wrap or place the skewers in an airtight container and keep them chilled in the refrigerator. A crucial tip for make-ahead preparations: if you plan to use fresh herbs as a garnish or the honey balsamic drizzle, always wait to add them until just before you are ready to serve. This ensures maximum freshness, prevents any ingredients from becoming soggy, and keeps the flavors at their peak.
What type of skewers are best to use for antipasto?
Both sturdy metal skewers and traditional bamboo skewers work perfectly well for this recipe. If you opt for bamboo skewers, it’s a good practice to consider soaking them in water for about 30 minutes before you begin assembly. This simple step helps to prevent them from splintering while threading ingredients and makes the process much smoother and safer. Regardless of your choice, ensure your chosen skewers are long enough to comfortably accommodate a good variety of ingredients, creating a substantial and appealing appetizer. For smaller, single-bite presentations, elegant cocktail picks can also be used effectively.
What other ingredients can I add to my antipasto skewers?
The possibilities for customization are nearly endless, allowing you to truly personalize your skewers! Beyond the core ingredients, consider enhancing them with marinated artichoke hearts for a tangy bite, sun-dried tomatoes for concentrated sweetness, tender roasted garlic cloves, small and zesty pickles (cornichons), different vibrant types of bell peppers for crunch, or even delicate grilled zucchini slices for a lighter touch. For additional meat options, elegant prosciutto, spicy pepperoni, or even succulent grilled chicken pieces can be excellent additions. For cheese, consider adding cubes of creamy feta, rich provolone, or even sharp cheddar. Get wonderfully creative and incorporate any of your favorite Italian-inspired ingredients to make these skewers uniquely yours!
Can I make these skewers vegetarian?
Yes, absolutely! This base recipe is incredibly versatile and easily adaptable to be fully vegetarian. To make vegetarian antipasto skewers, simply omit the salami (or any other cured meat) from the ingredient list. The delightful combination of cheese tortellini, fresh mozzarella, an assortment of olives, sweet roasted red peppers, juicy cherry tomatoes, and aromatic basil still creates an incredibly flavorful, satisfying, and visually appealing vegetarian antipasto skewer that everyone, regardless of their dietary preferences, will thoroughly enjoy.
What kind of dressing works best for antipasto skewers?
Our signature honey balsamic drizzle provides a wonderful and balanced combination of sweet and tangy flavors that perfectly complements the ingredients. However, you have an array of fantastic options to choose from! A classic and zesty Italian dressing, a simple yet elegant mix of high-quality balsamic vinegar and extra virgin olive oil, or even a bright and herbaceous pesto vinaigrette would all be incredibly delicious choices. For a richer, sweeter, and more glossy finish, a store-bought or homemade balsamic glaze is also an excellent and highly recommended option. Alternatively, for a minimalist approach that truly allows the natural flavors of the ingredients to shine, you can simply drizzle the skewers with good quality extra virgin olive oil and season generously with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper.
More Delicious Appetizer Recipes to Explore
Looking for more crowd-pleasing appetizers that are easy to prepare and bursting with flavor? Dive into our curated collection of popular recipes perfect for any occasion, from casual gatherings to elegant soirées:
Mediterranean
Layered Greek Dip
Vegetarian
Cowboy Caviar Recipe
Mediterranean
Honey Goat Cheese Balls
Vegetarian
Goat Cheese and Roasted Tomato Dip
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Antipasto Skewers
Julia Jolliff
Antipasto skewers are the perfect snack or appetizer for a summer get-together, backyard BBQ, or holiday. All of your favorite Italian-style ingredients are served on a colorful, delicious skewer. These vibrant skewers combine fresh tortellini, mozzarella, salami, olives, roasted red peppers, cherry tomatoes, and basil, all brought together with a sweet honey balsamic drizzle.
Print Recipe
20 mins
20 mins
8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 – 9 ounce package of cheese tortellini
- 1 – 12 ounce package fresh mozzarella cheese balls (bocconcini or ciliegine)
- 1 – 16 ounce jar of green olives (pimento stuffed recommended)
- 1 – 16 ounce jar of Kalamata olives
- 4 ounces of thinly sliced salami
- 3 ounces of roasted red peppers, drained and sliced
- 2 cups of cherry tomatoes
- 1 cup of fresh basil leaves
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish/dressing)
- 1/4 cup fresh green onions, chopped (for garnish/dressing)
For the Honey Balsamic Dressing:
- 2 teaspoons honey
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 3 teaspoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon mixed fresh herbs (parsley, oregano, basil), chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Cook Tortellini: Cook the cheese tortellini according to the package directions until al dente. Drain well and let cool completely. While it cools, prepare all other ingredients by laying them out on a large cutting board.
- Prepare Skewers: To assemble each skewer, start with a cherry tomato. Thread it, followed by one green olive, one Kalamata olive, one piece of cooled tortellini, a folded slice of salami, a piece of roasted red pepper, a fresh basil leaf, and one fresh mozzarella ball. Repeat this pattern as desired to fill the skewer, ensuring a balanced mix of colors and flavors. Aim to finish with a contrasting ingredient for visual appeal.
- Create Dressing: In a small mason jar or bowl, combine the honey, extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, chopped fresh herbs (parsley, oregano, basil), salt, and black pepper. Secure the lid tightly on the jar and shake vigorously, or whisk in a bowl, until the dressing is well combined and emulsified.
- Drizzle and Serve: Arrange the assembled antipasto skewers on a large serving platter. Just before serving, generously drizzle the honey balsamic dressing over all the skewers. For an extra touch of freshness, sprinkle additional chopped fresh herbs over the top. Serve immediately or store in the refrigerator until ready to enjoy.
Notes
- Feel free to customize these skewers with your favorite ingredients such as artichoke hearts, banana peppers, pepperoncini, pepperoni, prosciutto, or any type of olives.
- The honey balsamic dressing adds a wonderful flavor, but the skewers are also delicious without it. Alternatively, you can use a high-quality balsamic glaze for a thicker, sweeter finish.
Nutrition Information
Calories: 168 kcal, Carbohydrates: 6g, Protein: 5g, Fat: 14g, Saturated Fat: 3g, Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g, Monounsaturated Fat: 8g, Cholesterol: 15mg, Sodium: 621mg, Potassium: 194mg, Fiber: 1g, Sugar: 3g, Vitamin A: 915IU, Vitamin C: 26mg, Calcium: 44mg, Iron: 1mg
Nutrition information is automatically calculated and should be used as an approximation. Actual values may vary based on specific ingredients and preparation methods.
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