Antipasto skewers offer a hassle-free party solution, perfect for gatherings of all kinds. Their make-ahead convenience and crowd-pleasing nature make them an ideal choice for parties, picnics, game days, BBQs, road trips, tailgating events, and more. These colorful bites are served on wooden sticks and infused with classic Italian flavors, making them a great addition to any charcuterie board or a fun finger food option that’s easy to enjoy.
Why You Will Love These
When it comes to effortless party prep, this marinated vegetable appetizer recipe checks all the boxes. The combination of tender tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil, accompanied by other tasty ingredients, makes for a show-stopping no-cook appetizer that’s sure to please even the most discerning palates. Not only is it incredibly easy to assemble, but its classic antipasto flavors also ensure that it will be devoured in no time – perfect for any gathering or occasion where you need to feed a crowd.
How to Make Antipasto Skewers
To prepare this delectable appetizer, start by cooking the tortellini according to the package instructions and letting it cool completely. Next, combine all the dressing ingredients in a jar until well combined, creating the marinade. Then, pour the marinade over the kabob ingredients – including mozzarella, tortellini, tomatoes, and your choice of meat – and let everything marinate for at least an hour or overnight. Finally, assemble the appetizer skewers by threading on to wooden sticks mozzarella, fresh basil, tortellini, green and black olives, and your chosen meat, finishing with a garnish of fresh herbs if desired. Serve the dish chilled or at room temperature, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Substitutions and Variations
Consider elevating your antipasto bites by incorporating a variety of flavors and textures. You can substitute chopped fresh mozzarella for plain mozzarella balls, or add sliced pepperoncini peppers, artichoke hearts, or marinated mushrooms to the mix. Cured meats, roasted red peppers, and pitted olives from Italy, Greece, or Kalamata are also great options. For an added layer of depth, drizzle a reduction of balsamic vinegar over the top for a rich and tangy finish.
Storage Directions
When it comes to storing your cooked pasta salads, it’s best to keep them refrigerated, wrapping any leftovers in plastic wrap to maintain freshness. This way, you can enjoy your salad for up to three days. However, when it comes to freezing, these types of dishes are not ideal candidates due to the potential negative impact on texture and flavor. As a result, it’s best to consume your pasta salads within a few days rather than trying to freeze them.
Easy Antipasto Skewers FAQs
When it comes to serving these kabobs, do you prefer them dressed up or au naturel? Once the marinating process is complete, the excess marinade can be discarded, as the flavors will have been absorbed by the ingredients. However, feel free to add a finishing touch with a drizzle of balsamic glaze or a sprinkle of fresh herbs for added depth and visual appeal. And yes, it’s entirely possible to create a vegetarian version of this recipe simply by swapping out the salami for roasted bell peppers or mushrooms – the possibilities are endless!
Italian Antipasto Skewers Appetizer Recipe
Antipasto Skewers
Written by Bella Bucchiotti, these scrumptious antipasto skewers are sure to delight your guests at any party, BBQ or gathering. With their Italian flair and ease of preparation, they’re a must-have for any occasion. To make them, you’ll need just 10 minutes to prepare and another 10 minutes to cook, resulting in a total time of 20 minutes. And the best part? They yield 6 servings, making them perfect for your next get-together.
Instructions
To prepare the dish, start by cooking the tortellini according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold running water until it reaches a comfortable temperature. Meanwhile, combine the ingredients for the Italian dressing in a mason jar and vigorously shake the mixture for 30 seconds to ensure everything is well incorporated.Next, place the mozzarella balls, tortellini, tomatoes, and any other desired toppings into a bowl with a lid. Pour the prepared Italian dressing over the ingredients, making sure they’re all coated evenly. Allow the mixture to marinate for at least two hours, but ideally overnight, allowing the flavors to meld together.Finally, assemble the skewers by alternating between mozzarella balls, basil leaves, tortellini, olives, meat, and tomatoes, creating a visually appealing and flavorful snack or appetizer.