Can I make Antipasto Skewers the night before?

Absolutely! Prep and assemble the skewers, then cover tightly with plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container. Add fresh herbs and a final drizzle of dressing or balsamic when you’re ready to serve for best flavor and appearance.

What’s the best way to transport these for a picnic or party?

Lay the assembled skewers in a single layer in a large, flat container lined with paper towels (to absorb extra moisture). Stack with parchment paper between layers if needed. Add extra dressing and herbs at the last minute.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes—just use gluten-free tortellini or swap them for gluten-free pasta shapes, firm polenta rounds, or extra veggies. Every other ingredient is naturally gluten-free.

What if I can’t find marinated artichokes or roasted red peppers?

No problem! Substitute with grilled mushrooms, pickled veggies, sun-dried tomatoes, or even small cubes of roasted eggplant. These skewers are endlessly adaptable.

Antipasto Skewers Recipe

Name: Antipasto Skewers Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 7 min
Total time: 27 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 12 mozzarella balls, cocktail sized; 5 tablespoons Italian dressing, divided; 12 marinated artichokes; 12 cherry tomatoes; 12 slices roasted red pepper, about 1″ each; 24 refrigerated cheese tortellini; 12 pitted olives; 24 slices salami (or substitute half for mortadella); Balsamic reduction, for garnish; Chopped fresh parsley or basil, for garnish

Description

Antipasto Skewers are colorful, easy-to-assemble appetizers that bring together classic Italian antipasto flavors on a stick. Featuring cheese tortellini, marinated mozzarella balls, cherry tomatoes, olives, artichokes, roasted red pepper, and salami, they’re perfect for parties, holidays, or anytime you need an impressive yet low-effort snack.

Ingredients

Scale

Cheese & Marinated Items

12 mozzarella balls, cocktail sized
5 tablespoons Italian dressing, divided
12 marinated artichokes

Vegetables

12 cherry tomatoes
12 slices roasted red pepper, about 1” each

Pasta & Olives

24 refrigerated cheese tortellini
12 pitted olives

Meats

24 slices salami (or substitute half for mortadella)

Garnishes (Optional)

Balsamic reduction, for garnish
Chopped fresh parsley or basil, for garnish

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Instructions

Marinate Mozzarella and Artichokes: In a small bowl, toss the mozzarella balls and marinated artichokes with 2 tablespoons of Italian dressing. Let them marinate for at least 10 minutes while preparing the other ingredients for extra flavor.
Cook and Marinate Tortellini: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the cheese tortellini according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and rinse under cold water. Toss the drained tortellini in the remaining 3 tablespoons of Italian dressing to coat evenly; set aside.
Prepare Ingredients: While the cheese and tortellini marinate, cut the roasted red pepper into 12 pieces about 1-inch each. Slice or fold the salami if necessary to fit on skewers. Set out all ingredients for easy assembly.
Assemble the Skewers: Thread one of each: marinated mozzarella ball, cherry tomato, olive, cheese tortellini, marinated artichoke, a slice of roasted red pepper, and 2 slices of salami onto each skewer. Repeat for all 12 skewers, arranging the ingredients in a visually appealing order.
Garnish and Serve: Arrange the antipasto skewers on a serving platter. Drizzle with balsamic reduction and sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley or basil, if desired, just before serving. Enjoy immediately or chill until ready to serve.

Notes

For best flavor, let the mozzarella and tortellini marinate as long as possible (up to several hours in the fridge).
Use any combination of olives or cured meats your guests like.
Antipasto skewers can be made a few hours in advance and kept refrigerated until serving.
If using wooden skewers, soak them for 10 minutes beforehand to prevent splintering.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 skewer
Calories: 140
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 430mg
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 3.5g
Unsaturated Fat: 4g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 11g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 6g
Cholesterol: 20mg