Name: Antipasto Skewers Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 9 oz. fresh cheese tortellini; Kosher salt, to taste; Freshly ground black pepper, to taste; 2 Tbsp. balsamic vinegar; 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil; 8 oz. mozzarella balls (such as Ciliegine); 1/2 tsp. Italian seasoning; 1/4 tsp. red pepper flakes; 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil; 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

Introduction

Antipasto skewers are a delightful and colorful appetizer that bring together classic Italian flavors in a convenient bite-sized form. Perfect for parties or casual gatherings, these skewers combine fresh ingredients like mozzarella, salami, and marinated tortellini for a satisfying and flavorful treat.

A white rectangular board holds multiple rows of small skewers, each with four layers: a green olive on top, followed by a folded artichoke heart in a pale yellow color, a bright red roasted pepper slice, a few thinly folded slices of pink salami, and a round white ball of seasoned cheese at the bottom. A woman's hand is reaching to pick up one of the skewers at the bottom right, with the wooden table beneath the board replaced by a white marbled texture. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

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

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.

Step 2: Season the cooked tortellini with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Add balsamic vinegar and 1/4 cup of olive oil, then mix to combine. Set aside.

Step 3: In a small bowl, marinate the mozzarella balls by combining them with Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, and the remaining 1/4 cup of olive oil. Mix gently and set aside.

Step 4: Assemble the skewers by layering one piece each of mozzarella, salami, roasted red pepper, tortellini, fresh basil leaf, artichoke heart, and green olive onto small skewers or toothpicks.

Tips & Variations

Use toothpicks or small bamboo skewers for easy serving and handling.

Substitute salami with pepperoni or prosciutto for a different flavor profile.

Add cherry tomatoes or cucumber slices for extra color and freshness.

Prepare the components ahead of time and assemble just before serving to keep ingredients fresh.

FAQs

Can I use dried tortellini instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use dried tortellini. Just be sure to cook it according to the package instructions until al dente before using in the recipe.

How long can I prepare these skewers in advance?

It’s best to assemble the skewers shortly before serving to maintain freshness, but you can prepare the individual ingredients and marinate them up to a day ahead.