If you’re looking for a no-stress appetizer that’s as beautiful as it is delicious, these Antipasto Skewers are it. They come together quickly, can be made ahead of time, and are packed with bold, briny, savory flavors. I’ve served them as a party starter and love pairing them with grilled chicken or a bowl of soup for an easy, no-fuss meal. They’re fun, flexible, and full of flavor—this is finger food done right.
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Fantastic recipe! Easy to make, pretty presentation and the vinaigrette has great flavor. It was a hit at the party I brought it to!
Miranda
Over the years, I’ve found these yummy sticks pack up beautifully, so they’re great for picnics, tailgating, and outdoor events. Actually, now that I think about it, these skewers are like THE BEST appetizer, maybe ever, since they can be served at any party you’ll ever host!
Easy to Make, Easy to Take – Here’s When To Serve
These little skewers are a go-to for just about any kind of gathering—holiday parties, summer get-togethers, potlucks, you name it. I love how easy they are to mix and match depending on what’s in the fridge or who’s coming over. Plus, they hold up great for travel, which makes them perfect for picnics, tailgates, or taking along to a friend’s house.
Prep Ahead, Serve Later: Make-Ahead Tips
You can assemble these skewers a few hours—or even a full day—in advance. Just store them in an airtight container and layer with parchment to keep things from sticking. Right before serving, drizzle on the dressing to keep everything fresh. I like to let them sit out for about 20 minutes so the flavors shine—they’re best served at room temperature.
Ingredients For Antipasto Skewers
- Cheese Tortellini – Lots of flavor in a little pocket.
- Mozzarella Balls – These are mild in flavor but pack in some additional protein.
- Salami Slices – Adding salt and flavor, these also last longer out at a barbecue or stored in the fridge than other meats.
- Black and Green Olives – I love the colorful contrast of both! Just be sure to buy pitted to save time.
- Grape Tomatoes – For a burst of sweetness add cherry tomatoes.
- Fresh Basil – Some recipes use spinach, but I love the sweetness of basil just for munching on.
- Homemade Vinaigrette Dressing – This is made up of a variety of herbs like chives, basil, and parsley. Then mixed with Champagne or White Balsamic Vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic, honey, good quality olive oil, salt, and pepper.
Mix It Up: Ingredient Swaps & Variations
- Artichoke Hearts: I usually go with marinated artichoke hearts for extra flavor, but plain canned ones work just fine too. Just drain them well before skewering.
- Swap the Meat: Not a fan of salami? Try prosciutto or even pepperoni—whatever you like or have on hand.
- Peppers: You can use fresh red bell peppers or jarred roasted red peppers. The roasted ones add a smoky touch that I really love.
- Pepperoncini or Pickled Vegetables: Add a little tang and zip with mild pepperoncini or pickled veggies like cauliflower or carrots.
How to Assemble Antipasto Skewers
- Thread the skewers with the ingredients in the order shown in the photo.
- Make the dressing by mixing all the ingredients together in a jar.
- Drizzle the skewers with the dressing and enjoy!
Can I Make Them Without Skewers?
If you’ve been following A Southern Soul for very long, you know that I have a soft spot in my heart for recipes that do double duty. This is one of them since I’ve often served these “appetizer” skewers as a salad. Just skip the skewer part of this recipe and serve them as a salad!
What To Serve With Easy Antipasto Skewers
These little antipasto bites go with everything! Just put them out, and folks will eat or serve them with any of these other easy recipes.
- Crock Pot Mississippi Chicken Sliders
- Award-Winning A Southern Soul Chili
- Air Fryer Baked Potatoes
- Three Cheese Stuffed Shells
Frequently Asked Questions
Sure! These are awesome for making up to 2 days in advance. Just wait to add the dressing and wrap with plastic wrap to keep them from drying out.
Sure, just look for a gluten-free tortellini option.
You can, but these will not be nearly as good, so I highly recommend making your own dressing.
More Yummy Appetizer Recipes You’ll Love!
If you tried this Antipasto Skewer Recipe or any other recipe, please leave a star rating and let me know how it went in the comments below. Thanks!
Equipment
Ingredients
- 8 large green olives
- 8 Genoa salami slices – halved
- 8 mini Mozzarella cheese balls
- 8 large basil leaves
- 8 grape tomatoes
- 8 cheese tortellini – cooked and cooled
- 8 large black olives
Herb Vinaigrette
- ¼ cup good vinegar – I use Champagne but sherry or balsamic is fine
- ⅔ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon Dijon mustard
- ½ clove garlic – finely minced or 2 teaspoons minced shallots
- 2 teaspoons honey
- ¾ cup extra-virgin olive oil
- ¼ teaspoon fresh ground pepper
- ½ teaspoon fresh chives – chopped
- ½ teaspoon fresh basil – chopped
- ½ teaspoon fresh parsley – chopped
Instructions
Antipasto Skewers
- Using 8, 7 inch wooden skewers, thread one of each antipasto ingredients onto skewers. Set aside.
Herb Vinaigrette
- In a small jar with a lid, add mustard, garlic, honey, olive oil, salt, pepper, chives, basil and parsley. Secure lid and shake until thoroughly mixed.
- When ready to serve, pour dressing over skewers.
Video
Notes
- Artichoke Hearts: Use marinated or canned—just be sure to drain well.
- Meat Swap: Try prosciutto or pepperoni in place of salami.
- Peppers: Use fresh red bell peppers or roasted red peppers for a smoky flavor.
- Assemble skewers up to 24 hours in advance.
- Store in an airtight container layered with parchment paper.
- Drizzle with dressing just before serving.
- Let skewers sit at room temperature for 15–20 minutes before serving for best flavor.
Nutrition
Donya's Top Ten Summer Recipes!
Steal my favorites for a done-for-you menu that packs in the flavor
Looks great!
Thank you, Marilyn! ~Donya
Can I make these as early as the day before?
Sure! Just do not drizzle the dressing on – wait until you are ready to serve.
~Donya
Easy to make. Great to bring to a potluck
Every one of these recipes looks great! I’m hungry just reading. The weekend can’t be here soon enough.
Thank you!
~Donya