Antipasto Skewers
Last Saturday, we had an impromptu family gathering, and as usual, I needed something quick yet irresistibly delicious to whip up. Antipasto Skewers came to my rescue! These skewers are a brilliant way to offer a variety of flavors, and the best part? They’re ready in just 20 minutes. My family loves these because they combine our favorite Italian flavors with minimal fuss. If you're looking for more quick bites, check out my Gluten-Free Lemon Crinkle Cookies.
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Why you’ll love this recipe
Antipasto Skewers are perfect for parties, picnics, or a no-fuss appetizer. They’re colorful, full of flavor, and you don’t need any special cooking skills to make them. Trust me, even busy Manhattan moms like me can appreciate the ease of this recipe. Plus, they involve no cooking—just a bit of assembly!
Ingredients
- 20 wooden skewers
- 1 cup cheese tortellini, cooked and cooled
- ½ cup Italian salad dressing
- 40 pitted olives
- 40 cherry tomatoes
- 20 slices Genoa salami, halved
- 20 small mozzarella balls
- 40 fresh basil leaves
- 20 marinated artichoke heart quarters
Step-by-step instructions
- Cook the tortellini according to package instructions, rinse under cold water, and let them cool.
- Toss the cooled tortellini in a mixing bowl with Italian salad dressing until they’re well coated, then marinate for about 15 minutes.
- Begin assembling your skewers by threading an olive, followed by a tomato, a basil leaf, a tortellini, another basil leaf, a folded salami slice, a mozzarella ball, another tortellini, a basil leaf, a folded salami slice, an artichoke heart quarter, another tomato, and finish with an olive.
- Repeat the process with the remaining skewers.
- Arrange them on a platter and serve them at room temperature.

Recipe tips & variations
Here's a little tip: you can make these skewers more colorful by adding different types of cheese or cured meats. My family often enjoys adding chunks of pepperoni or even slices of prosciutto for a different flavor profile. Feel free to mix and match based on what’s available in your fridge—that’s the beauty of this dish!
Storage & reheating
If you need to make these ahead of time, you can easily store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a day. I find the flavors meld together even more beautifully this way! Just let them return to room temperature before serving, as the flavors tend to be more pronounced when they’re not ice-cold.

FAQs
Can I make antipasto skewers ahead of time for a party?
Absolutely! These skewers can be prepped the night before. Just make sure to store them in the fridge, and let them sit at room temperature for a bit before serving.
How long can antipasto skewers sit out at room temperature?
They’re best served fresh, but they can comfortably sit out for about 2 hours. That gives you plenty of time to enjoy your gathering without rushing.
What other ingredients can I add or substitute in these skewers?
Feel free to get creative! Roasted peppers, different cheeses, or even artichoke hearts are excellent substitutions or additions. The combinations are endless!
Should I serve antipasto skewers chilled or at room temperature?
For the best flavor, serve them at room temperature. That way, all the ingredients can really shine through!
Recipes you may like
For more delightful recipes, don’t miss out on my Creamy Mango Banana Smoothie for a Fresh Morning Boost or a refreshing Pineapple Green Smoothie.
Enjoy these Antipasto Skewers with your family, making each moment around the table a memorable one!
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Antipasto Skewers
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 20 skewers 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Quick and delicious Antipasto Skewers packed with Italian flavors. Perfect for gatherings!
Ingredients
- 20 wooden skewers
- 1 cup cheese tortellini, cooked and cooled
- ½ cup Italian salad dressing
- 40 pitted olives
- 40 cherry tomatoes
- 20 slices Genoa salami, halved
- 20 small mozzarella balls
- 40 fresh basil leaves
- 20 marinated artichoke heart quarters
Instructions
- Cook the tortellini according to package instructions, rinse under cold water, and let them cool.
- Toss the cooled tortellini in a mixing bowl with Italian salad dressing until they’re well coated, then marinate for about 15 minutes.
- Begin assembling your skewers by threading an olive, followed by a tomato, a basil leaf, a tortellini, another basil leaf, a folded salami slice, a mozzarella ball, another tortellini, a basil leaf, a folded salami slice, an artichoke heart quarter, another tomato, and finish with an olive.
- Repeat the process with the remaining skewers.
- Arrange them on a platter and serve them at room temperature.
Notes
- You can make these skewers more colorful by adding different types of cheese or cured meats.
- Feel free to mix and match based on what’s available in your fridge.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No cook
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 skewer





