Name: Antipasto Skewers Appetizer
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 12 slices salami; 12 cubes mozzarella or provolone cheese; 12 cherry tomatoes; 12 Kalamata or green olives; 6 marinated artichoke hearts, quartered; 6 strips roasted red peppers, cut into chunks; 12 fresh basil leaves; 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze (optional); 12 small wooden skewers

These Antipasto Skewers are like a party on a stick. They combine everything you love about an Italian antipasto platter — savory cured meats, creamy cheese, marinated vegetables, and briny olives — all stacked together into a beautiful, bite-sized arrangement. Not only are they bursting with flavor and texture, but they’re also incredibly easy to prep ahead, making them perfect for entertaining.

Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ, a holiday gathering, or just need a fun snack board for game day, these skewers are a guaranteed hit. They’re customizable to whatever you love most: swap in artichoke hearts, roasted red peppers, or even mini mozzarella balls. Best of all, no cooking required. Just assemble, chill, and serve.

Why You’ll Love This Antipasto Skewers Appetizer

These skewers are endlessly versatile and pack a big flavor punch with minimal effort. They look stunning on a platter and are easy to grab, making them ideal for cocktail parties or any event where you want low-mess finger food. Plus, you can prep them hours in advance so you’re not rushing when guests arrive.

What Kind of Ingredients Work Best for Antipasto Skewers?

The beauty of antipasto skewers is how flexible they are. Use high-quality, bite-sized items that pair well together in taste and texture. Think salty, sweet, tangy, and creamy. You’ll want a balance of meats, cheeses, pickled or marinated vegetables, and something fresh like basil or cherry tomatoes. Look for ingredients that stay firm and hold their shape well on a skewer.

Ingredients for the Antipasto Skewers Appetizer

When building the perfect antipasto skewer, aim for variety in both color and flavor. This combination is a great starting point:

Salami – Adds a salty, savory bite and a classic cured meat element.

Cheese cubes – Mozzarella or provolone offer a creamy, mild contrast to the bold flavors.

Cherry tomatoes – Juicy and fresh, they brighten up every bite.

Kalamata or green olives – For briny depth and a pop of Mediterranean flavor.

Marinated artichoke hearts – Tangy and tender, they add a gourmet twist.

Roasted red peppers – Their sweetness balances out the saltiness of the other items.

Fresh basil leaves – Adds a fragrant herbal touch that ties it all together.

Balsamic glaze (optional) – For drizzling over the skewers just before serving.

How To Make the Antipasto Skewers Appetizer

Step 1: Prep All Your Ingredients

Chop cheese and large vegetables into bite-sized pieces. Pat dry anything marinated to prevent soggy skewers. Wash and dry basil and tomatoes.

Step 2: Assemble the Skewers

Take wooden or metal skewers and thread on a combination of ingredients. Alternate colors and textures for a pretty presentation. For example: tomato, basil, cheese, salami, olive, pepper, artichoke, repeat.

Step 3: Chill Until Serving

Place the skewers on a platter, cover with plastic wrap, and chill for at least 30 minutes. This helps the flavors meld and keeps everything crisp.

Step 4: Optional Balsamic Finish

Just before serving, drizzle lightly with balsamic glaze for a sweet and tangy touch.

Serving and Storing Antipasto Skewers Appetizer

This appetizer feeds about 8 to 10 people as part of a snack or grazing spread. Serve them cold, directly from the fridge or let them sit for 10 minutes at room temperature before serving for the best flavor.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just be sure to remove any basil before storing to avoid it going limp and turning brown.

What to Serve With Antipasto Skewers Appetizer?

Freshly Baked Focaccia

Fluffy, olive oil-rich bread is perfect for pairing.

Classic Caprese Salad

Tomatoes and mozzarella echo flavors in the skewers.

Creamy Tomato Spinach Pasta

A warm pasta balances the cold skewers beautifully.

Cheese and Charcuterie Board

Double down on Italian-inspired nibbles.

Roasted Asparagus

Something green and simple to contrast the bold bites.

Italian Sausage Rigatoni

For a heartier option to turn your spread into a meal.

Lemonade or Sparkling Wine

A refreshing drink to cut through the richness.

Want More Appetizer Ideas?

If you love these antipasto skewers, you’ll probably enjoy these other appetizer favorites from the blog:

Crispy Jalapeno Popper Egg Rolls for a spicy, crunchy twist.
Classic Caprese Salad if you’re craving more fresh mozzarella and tomatoes.
Herby Chicken Meatball Bowl for a wholesome protein-packed small plate.
Ooey Gooey Butter Cake to satisfy every sweet tooth after the savory bites.
Creamy Tomato Spinach Pasta as a crowd-pleasing warm dish to go with your skewers.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest appetizer board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you try different ingredients or drizzle with balsamic? Maybe you made mini versions for a brunch spread?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too, let’s help each other entertain smarter.

Explore beautifully curated snack boards and appetizer ideas on Janet Dishes on Pinterest and discover your next party favorite.

Conclusion

Antipasto Skewers are more than just a pretty appetizer — they’re a celebration of flavor and convenience. With endless combinations, vibrant colors, and zero cooking needed, this is one recipe that belongs in every host’s back pocket. Whether you’re serving them for a crowd or just snacking in style, they deliver big-time Mediterranean vibes with minimal effort.