Antipasto Skewers Appetizer

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These Antipasto Skewers are my secret weapon for effortless entertaining. Whether it’s a holiday gathering, a casual backyard BBQ, or a wine night with friends, these skewers never fail to impress. They’re colorful, flavorful, and packed with textures—plus, they take almost no time to prepare. I love how easily they bring together all the best parts of a traditional antipasto platter, but in a fun, bite-sized format that’s perfect for mingling.

What I enjoy most is that they’re totally customizable. You can stick to Italian-inspired ingredients like I did, or mix and match based on what you have in your fridge. The best part? No cooking required. Just layer marinated veggies, cheese, cured meats, and olives on skewers, and you’ve got a crowd-pleasing appetizer ready to go. Let’s dive into why these Antipasto Skewers belong at your next party.

Why You’ll Love This Antipasto Skewers Appetizer

• It’s quick and requires zero cooking.
• Visually impressive for guests and parties.
• Easy to customize with your favorite deli items.
• Perfect make-ahead appetizer.
• Combines savory, briny, and fresh flavors in every bite.

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What Kind of Skewers Should I Use?

I recommend using 6-inch bamboo skewers or cocktail picks with a little flair on the end. These are just the right size for stacking about 6–8 ingredients per skewer, and they look elegant on a serving platter. You can also opt for reusable metal picks if you want to go eco-friendly.

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Options for Substitutions

Don’t have salami or cherry tomatoes? No problem. Swap in pepperoni, prosciutto, or cubed cheese. Try roasted red peppers instead of artichokes, or cucumber slices instead of basil. Vegan? Skip the cheese and meat, and double up on marinated veggies, olives, and pickles. The key is balance—mix bold, briny, creamy, and crisp ingredients for the best result.

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Ingredients for this Antipasto Skewers Appetizer

Green Olives: Add a briny, savory bite and a pop of color to the base of each skewer.

Mozzarella Balls (Ciliegine): Creamy and mild, these balance the saltiness of the olives and meats.

Cherry Tomatoes: Sweet and juicy, they add freshness and color.

Fresh Basil Leaves: A burst of herbaceous aroma that brings all the Italian flavors together.

Salami (or other cured meats): Folded into ribbons, salami adds richness and that classic antipasto flavor.

Marinated Artichoke Hearts: Tender and tangy, they add texture and depth.

Kalamata Olives: Slightly bitter and bold in flavor, they contrast beautifully with the creamy mozzarella.

Italian Dressing (optional): A light drizzle adds zesty flavor and ties all the ingredients together.

6-inch Skewers or Picks: For assembling and serving each stack neatly.

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Step 1: Prep the Ingredients

Drain and pat dry the olives, artichokes, and mozzarella balls so they don’t drip on your serving plate. Slice any large artichoke hearts in half. Wash and dry the cherry tomatoes and basil leaves.

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Step 2: Layer the Skewers

Start with a green olive at the bottom, followed by a mozzarella ball. Next, fold a basil leaf and a slice of salami into a ribbon and slide them on. Add a cherry tomato, another folded salami slice, an artichoke heart, and top it with a Kalamata olive.

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Step 3: Repeat and Arrange

Repeat until you’ve used all ingredients. Arrange the finished skewers in neat rows on a large platter.

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Step 4: Drizzle with Dressing (Optional)

Just before serving, lightly drizzle with Italian dressing or olive oil mixed with a pinch of oregano for an extra boost of flavor.

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Step 5: Chill or Serve Immediately

If you’re not serving them right away, cover the platter with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 4 hours. This also allows the flavors to meld.

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How Long to Prepare the Antipasto Skewers Appetizer

Prep Time: The beauty of this appetizer is its speed. From start to finish, assembling a batch of 20 skewers takes about 20–25 minutes. This includes washing, draining, folding, and layering each skewer.

Make-Ahead Option: If you’re prepping ahead for a party, you can make these up to 4 hours in advance. Just cover the platter with plastic wrap and refrigerate. The flavors actually get better as they sit a little!

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Tips for Perfect Antipasto Skewers Appetizer

• Dry ingredients thoroughly to avoid soggy skewers.
• Fold the meats loosely so they look visually appealing and are easy to bite into.
• Alternate colors and textures for the most striking presentation.
• Use toothpicks for mini versions if serving for a cocktail hour.
• Chill before serving to keep everything fresh and firm.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Overloading the skewers: Cramming too many items makes them hard to eat.
• Skipping the draining step: Wet ingredients will make the skewers messy and slippery.
• Using poor quality olives or cheese: Flavor really matters with minimal ingredients.
• Serving them warm: Always serve chilled or at room temp for best taste.
• Not balancing flavors: Include something creamy, briny, meaty, and fresh for a well-rounded bite.

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What to Serve With Antipasto Skewers Appetizer?

1. Crusty Bread or Breadsticks

Offer a side of warm, sliced baguette or crispy breadsticks to complement the meats and cheeses.

2. Wine or Sparkling Water

Pair with a light red wine like Pinot Noir or a sparkling water with lemon.

3. Charcuterie Board

Expand the theme by serving a full charcuterie board nearby with nuts, fruits, and spreads.

4. Pasta Salad

A light Italian-style pasta salad with vinaigrette pairs well with the skewers.

5. Stuffed Mini Peppers

Add another finger food to the spread with sweet mini peppers stuffed with herbed cheese.

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Storage Instructions

Short-Term Storage: If you’re making these the same day, prepare them up to 4 hours in advance. Store them in the fridge covered tightly with plastic wrap. Keep chilled until ready to serve.

Leftovers: These skewers will hold up in the refrigerator for about 2 days. The basil might wilt slightly, and the textures may soften, but the flavors will remain delicious. Avoid freezing them—they’re best enjoyed fresh.

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Estimated Nutrition (Per Skewer, Approximate)

• Calories: 110
• Protein: 6g
• Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 3.5g
• Carbohydrates: 2g
• Sugar: 0g
• Sodium: 400mg
• Fiber: 0.5g
• Cholesterol: 15mg

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Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of cheese can I use instead of mozzarella balls?

You can use cubed provolone, cheddar, or marinated feta for a different flavor profile.

Can I make these skewers vegetarian?

Absolutely. Just omit the meat and add extra veggies or a second cheese option like marinated tofu or grilled zucchini slices.

How far in advance can I make these?

Up to 4 hours ahead of time for best freshness and appearance.

Can I add a dip or sauce on the side?

Yes, pesto, Italian dressing, or even a balsamic glaze makes a great pairing for dipping.

Do I have to use both green and Kalamata olives?

Not at all. You can stick to one type or switch it up with your favorite variety.

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Conclusion

Antipasto Skewers Appetizer is one of those brilliant ideas that combines flavor, simplicity, and presentation into a single bite. Perfect for parties, holidays, or casual evenings, they bring together everything you love about Italian antipasto in a neat and customizable format. Try it once, and you’ll find yourself making it on repeat!

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