Antipasto Wreath Skewers are a fun and tasty party snack! They’re packed with delicious bites like salami, cheese, olives, and cherry tomatoes, all beautifully arranged on skewers.
These colorful skewers are perfect for impressing guests. I love how easy they are to make. Just grab your favorite ingredients, stick them on a skewer, and enjoy! It’s a great way to use leftovers too!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salami: I love how salami adds richness. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try turkey or chicken deli meat instead. Vegans can use plant-based deli slices or marinated tofu.
Cheese: Fresh mozzarella is creamy and mild, perfect for skewers. If you’re not a fan, marinated feta gives a tangy twist. For dairy-free options, look for plant-based cheese alternatives.
Olives: Mixed olives add flavor and color. If you dislike olives, try artichoke hearts or marinated mushrooms for a similar punch. They’re equally colorful!
Vegetables: Grilled veggies like zucchini or peppers add great texture. If you don’t have them, fresh bell peppers or cherry peppers are delicious alternatives.
How Do I Make Sure My Skewers Look Gorgeous?
Presentation is key for these Antipasto Wreath Skewers! To create a stunning visual, follow these tips:
- Use a variety of colors and shapes. Mix red tomatoes with green olives and yellow cheeses.
- Layer ingredients thoughtfully on each skewer: start with a round shape using olives, then alternate between meats, veggies, and cheese for eye-catching contrast.
- Consider how they fit together in a circle. Keep the skewers close but not too crowded, allowing each ingredient to shine.
- Garnish the plate with fresh herbs for an added pop of color and a fresh aroma.
Take your time to assemble each skewer, and soon you’ll have a festive centerpiece that grabs all the attention!
How to Make Antipasto Wreath Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 wooden skewers
- 24 slices of salami (or other cured meats like pepperoni or prosciutto)
- 12 cubes of fresh mozzarella or marinated feta cheese (about 1 inch each)
- 24 cherry tomatoes
- 24 mixed olives (such as green olives and Kalamata olives, pitted)
- 12 small pieces of grilled or marinated vegetables (such as zucchini or eggplant slices)
- Fresh herbs for garnish (such as dill, basil, or parsley)
- Fresh spinach or arugula leaves (for placing underneath the wreath, optional)
- Extra virgin olive oil (for drizzling)
- Freshly ground black pepper (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend around 15 minutes prepping ingredients and another 15 minutes assembling the skewers and arranging them into a lovely wreath. It’s perfect for a quick, impressive appetizer!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Ingredients:
Start by washing the cherry tomatoes and fresh herbs thoroughly. Drain the olives and cut the mozzarella or feta cheese into 1-inch cubes. If you’re using grilled vegetables, slice them into small, manageable pieces. This will make the assembly process easy and quick!
2. Assemble the Skewers:
Grab a wooden skewer and begin creating your masterpiece! Thread the ingredients onto the skewer in the following order: one green olive, one slice of salami folded or rolled, one cherry tomato, one piece of grilled vegetable, one cube of cheese, another cherry tomato, another slice of salami, and finally, one Kalamata olive. This layering not only looks great but also ensures a variety of flavors in each bite!
3. Repeat & Arrange:
Continue to repeat the process until all 12 skewers are assembled. Once done, take a serving plate or platter and arrange the finished skewers standing upright in a circular wreath shape. For an extra festive touch, lay fresh spinach or arugula leaves flat on the plate before adding the skewers to resemble a beautiful greenery base.
4. Garnish and Final Touches:
Now it’s time to make your wreath shine! Garnish around the base with fresh herbs tucked between the skewers for an eye-catching display. Drizzle a bit of extra virgin olive oil over the skewers, and finish with a sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper if you like.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Antipasto Wreath Skewers immediately as a stunning, bite-sized antipasto display. Your guests will love the variety, and it’s perfect for any gathering or celebration!
Enjoy your vibrant and colorful Antipasto Wreath Skewers!
Can I Use Different Ingredients for the Skewers?
Absolutely! You can customize your skewers with your favorite ingredients. Try different cured meats like prosciutto or turkey, or use a mix of cheeses such as cheddar or pepper jack for a new flavor profile. You can also swap olives for pickles or add nuts for extra crunch!
How Do I Store Leftover Skewers?
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep the skewers without the dressing, and drizzle olive oil just before serving to keep them fresh. However, they are best enjoyed immediately!
Can I Make These Skewers Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the skewers a few hours in advance! Assemble them and cover with plastic wrap to keep them fresh. Just wait to add any garnishes until you’re ready to serve for the best presentation.
Can I Make Them Vegetarian/Vegan?
Definitely! Simply omit the meats and use plant-based cheese alternatives, like cashew cheese. You can also add extra vegetables like artichokes, bell peppers, or marinated tofu for added flavor and variety.