Antipasto Skewers Recipe

Introduction

These Antipasto Skewers are a vibrant and flavorful appetizer perfect for gatherings or casual snacking. Combining fresh tortellini, savory salami, and tangy marinated mozzarella, they bring a delightful mix of textures and tastes to your table.

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 9 oz. fresh cheese tortellini
• Kosher salt
• Freshly ground black pepper
• 2 Tbsp. balsamic vinegar
• 8 oz. mozzarella balls (such as Ciliegine)
• 1/2 tsp. Italian seasoning
• 1/4 tsp. red pepper flakes
• 4 oz. sliced salami
• 1/4 lb. roasted red peppers, chopped into bite-sized pieces
• 1 bunch fresh basil
• 14 oz. artichoke hearts, drained and chopped into bite-sized pieces
• 1/4 lb. green olives

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a large pot of boiling water, cook tortellini according to package directions until al dente. Drain and transfer to a large bowl.
2. Step 2: Season cooked tortellini with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Add balsamic vinegar and 1/4 cup of the olive oil, then mix to combine. Set aside.
3. Step 3: In a small bowl, marinate mozzarella balls by combining them with Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, and the remaining 1/4 cup olive oil. Mix well and set aside.
4. Step 4: Assemble the skewers by layering one piece each of mozzarella, salami, roasted red pepper, tortellini, fresh basil, artichoke heart, and green olive on wooden skewers or toothpicks.

Tips & Variations

• Use a variety of olives like Kalamata or Castelvetrano for different flavor profiles.
• Substitute roasted red peppers with sun-dried tomatoes for a sweeter taste.
• For a vegetarian version, omit salami and add marinated mushrooms or grilled zucchini slices.
• Chill assembled skewers before serving to let flavors meld and enhance the freshness.

Storage

Store any leftover skewers covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Because of the fresh basil and delicate cheese, these are best enjoyed fresh. Reheat is not recommended; instead, assemble fresh skewers for best texture and flavor.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought cooked tortellini?

Yes, pre-cooked tortellini works well and can save time. Just be sure to drain it well and season as directed.

How far ahead can I prepare these skewers?

It’s best to assemble the skewers just before serving to maintain freshness, especially due to the basil and mozzarella. You can prep individual ingredients a day ahead and refrigerate separately.

Antipasto Skewers Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 109 reviews

These Antipasto Skewers are a vibrant and delicious appetizer featuring marinated mozzarella, fresh tortellini, salami, roasted red peppers, basil, artichokes, and olives. They combine classic Italian flavors into easy-to-assemble skewers, perfect for parties or casual gatherings.

• Author: Sophie
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: 12 skewers 1x
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients

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Marinade and Dressing

• 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 Tbsp. balsamic vinegar
• Kosher salt, to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1/2 tsp. Italian seasoning
• 1/4 tsp. red pepper flakes

Main Ingredients

• 9 oz. fresh cheese tortellini
• 8 oz. mozzarella balls (such as Ciliegine)
• 4 oz. sliced salami
• 1/4 lb. roasted red peppers, chopped into bite-sized pieces
• 1 bunch fresh basil leaves
• 14 oz. artichoke hearts, drained and chopped into bite-sized pieces
• 1/4 lb. green olives

Instructions

1. Cook Tortellini: In a large pot of boiling water, cook the fresh cheese tortellini according to package directions until al dente. Once cooked, drain well and transfer to a large mixing bowl.
2. Prepare Dressing and Season Tortellini: Season the cooked tortellini with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Add the balsamic vinegar and half (1/4 cup) of the extra-virgin olive oil. Mix thoroughly to coat the tortellini and set aside to allow flavors to meld.
3. Marinate Mozzarella: In a small bowl, combine the mozzarella balls with Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, and the remaining 1/4 cup olive oil. Stir to evenly coat the mozzarella and let it marinate briefly to absorb the flavors.
4. Assemble Skewers: Layer ingredients on skewers in the following order: one mozzarella ball, one slice of salami, a piece of roasted red pepper, a tortellini piece, a fresh basil leaf, a chopped artichoke heart piece, and a green olive. Repeat this until all ingredients are used, creating colorful and flavorful antipasto skewers ready to be served.

Notes

• Use fresh cheese tortellini for best texture and flavor.
• Marinating the mozzarella enhances its taste; you can prepare it ahead of time and refrigerate.
• If desired, substitute salami with other cured meats like prosciutto or pepperoni.
• Serve these skewers chilled or at room temperature.
• For a spicy kick, increase red pepper flakes according to taste.

Keywords: Antipasto, Skewers, Italian appetizer, Tortellini, Mozzarella, Party food