Antipasto Wreath Skewers are colorful and tasty bites perfect for any gathering! With olives, cheese, veggies, and meats all on a skewer, they’re as fun to make as they are to eat.
They’re like little pieces of art that you can munch on! I love making these for parties; they’re easy to grab and so pretty on a platter. Plus, you can mix and match your favorite ingredients!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tomatoes: Grape or cherry tomatoes bring sweetness and juiciness. If you can’t find them, diced bell peppers or even sun-dried tomatoes work nicely for a different taste.
Mixed Olives: A mix of green and black olives adds great flavor. If olives aren’t your thing, consider using pickles or artichoke hearts as a substitution.
Salami or Pepperoni: I love using salami for its rich flavor, but you can swap it with turkey slices or even a plant-based deli meat for a lighter or vegetarian option!
Cheese: Feta is tangy and creamy, but mozzarella is milder. If you prefer dairy-free, try vegan cheese or marinated tofu cut into cubes.
What’s the Best Way to Assemble Skewers for Presentation?
Assembling the skewers in a visually appealing way makes them pop! Here’s how:
- Start with a balanced base of ingredients to create variety in every bite.
- Use a colorful mix of tomatoes, olives, cheese, and meats, spacing them evenly on the skewer.
- Build layers by alternating shapes and colors, like a tomato, olive, cheese, and salami.
- Twist the cucumber strips around the skewer for texture and flair, making it eye-catching.
Arranging them in a wreath shape adds a festive touch. Not only do they look beautiful, but they also make a delightful mix of flavors in each bite!
Antipasto Wreath Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- Skewers: 12 wooden skewers (6-inch)
- Tomatoes: 1 cup grape or cherry tomatoes (red and yellow)
- Olives: 1 cup mixed olives (green and black)
- Cucumber: 1 cup cucumber, thinly sliced lengthwise (using a vegetable peeler)
- Basil: 1 cup fresh basil leaves
- Salami: 6 oz salami or pepperoni slices
- Cheese: 8 oz feta cheese or fresh mozzarella, cut into 1-inch cubes
- Seasoning: 1 tsp Italian seasoning or dried oregano
- Optional Spice: 1/2 tsp smoked paprika or chili powder (for sprinkling on cheese)
- Olive Oil: Olive oil (optional, for drizzling)
Time Needed:
This recipe takes about 20 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend a little time getting all your colorful ingredients ready and assembling them onto skewers. If you want them chilled, plan on letting them sit in the fridge for up to 2 hours before serving.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Ingredients:
Start by rinsing the grape tomatoes and mixed olives—give them a gentle pat dry with a paper towel. Use a vegetable peeler to slice the cucumber into thin long strips. Cut your feta cheese or mozzarella into 1-inch cubes, and if you’re using salami, fold each slice loosely into quarters to fit beautifully on the skewers.
2. Assemble the Skewers:
Grab one wooden skewer and start threading the ingredients to create a colorful and balanced bite. Begin with a grape tomato, then a green olive, followed by a cube of cheese, a folded piece of salami, a fresh basil leaf, one black olive, a second grape tomato, and finally, a cucumber strip. Feel free to adjust the order slightly, but aim for a variety of colors and textures in every bite.
3. Complete All Skewers:
Repeat the assembly process for the remaining skewers using all your delicious ingredients. Each skewer should look delightful and be packed with flavor!
4. Arrange the Wreath:
Once your skewers are ready, arrange them on a round serving platter to form a circular wreath shape. Make sure the pointed ends are facing outward; it adds to the beautiful presentation!
5. Add Seasoning:
If you’d like more flavor, sprinkle the cheese pieces with Italian seasoning and a touch of smoked paprika or chili powder. This will elevate the taste and add a lovely pop of color.
6. Drizzle and Serve:
Finally, if you wish, drizzle the entire wreath lightly with olive oil for a delicious finish. You can serve them immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving to keep them fresh and cool.
Enjoy these festive and delicious antipasto wreath skewers as a perfect party appetizer or holiday snack!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While feta and mozzarella are classic choices, you can also use goat cheese, provolone, or a vegan cheese alternative if you’re looking for a dairy-free option.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll keep well for up to 2 days. Just note that the cucumbers may become a little soggy over time.
Can I Make These Skewers Vegan?
Definitely! To make it vegan, simply omit the salami and cheese. You can substitute with marinated tofu, avocado, or grilled vegetables for extra flavor and protein.
What Can I Serve With These Skewers?
These skewers pair perfectly with a variety of dips, like hummus, tzatziki, or balsamic glaze. You can also offer a side of crusty bread or crackers to round out a lovely appetizer spread!
