These Antipasto Wreath Skewers are a fun and tasty way to enjoy your favorite Italian treats! With a mix of olives, cheese, and salami, they are perfect for sharing.
Honestly, it feels like a party on a stick! I love to serve them at gatherings and watch everyone grab a skewer. They disappear faster than I can assemble them! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olives: Green and kalamata olives give a burst of flavor. If you’re not a fan of olives, you could use pickles or even artichoke hearts as a fun substitute.
Salami: Salami adds a nice savory punch, but any cured meat like prosciutto or pepperoni works just as well. For a vegetarian option, consider marinated mushrooms or roasted red peppers.
Feta Cheese: Feta brings a creamy texture and tangy taste. If dairy-free, try using a vegan feta or diced avocado for a different twist.
Basil: Fresh basil leaves add a nice aromatic touch. If you can’t find fresh basil, you can use spinach or even arugula as a leafy alternative.
How Do You Assemble the Skewers Efficiently?
Assembling these skewers might seem tricky at first, but with a little practice, you can whip them up quickly! Here’s a straightforward method:
- Start with the skewer in one hand and the ingredients in the other. This helps with speed and control!
- Group similar items together before starting. This way, you can just grab and thread as needed.
- Begin from the thicker ingredients, like olives and salami, and finish with lighter ones like cherry tomatoes and basil at the top.
- Don’t worry about perfection; a messy wreath adds charm! Aim for a fun mix of color and texture.
Using this method will help streamline your assembly process, making it enjoyable rather than chaotic!
Antipasto Wreath Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 20 wooden skewers
- 40 green olives (pitted)
- 20 kalamata olives (pitted)
- 20 cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 lb (225 g) salami slices, folded or rolled
- 8 oz (225 g) feta cheese, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 20 fresh basil leaves
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning or dried oregano
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15-20 minutes to prepare. It’s a quick assembly process, and you’ll love how all the flavors come together beautifully once you’re done!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing Ingredients:
Start by rinsing the green and kalamata olives, basil leaves, and cherry tomatoes under running water. Use a cutting board to halve the cherry tomatoes and cut the feta cheese into 1-inch cubes. For the salami, either fold or roll each slice so that they fit nicely on the skewers.
2. Assembling the Skewers:
Take a wooden skewer and begin threading the ingredients in this order: 2 green olives at the bottom, followed by a slice of folded or rolled salami, then 1 kalamata olive, 1 cube of feta cheese, 1 basil leaf, and finally, a cherry tomato half. This colorful arrangement looks great when finished!
3. Arranging the Wreath:
Once all the skewers are assembled, it’s time to display them! Arrange the skewers upright in a circular pattern on a serving plate, creating a lovely wreath shape. Make sure the ingredients are visible for that vibrant look!
4. Drizzling and Seasoning:
Drizzle olive oil evenly over the skewers for added flavor. Then, sprinkle the dried Italian seasoning or oregano and freshly ground black pepper on top to enhance the taste.
5. Final Touches:
If you’d like, you can garnish your wreath with fresh rosemary sprigs or extra basil leaves for that festive touch. It not only looks great but will also add a nice aroma!
6. Serving:
Serve the Antipasto Wreath Skewers right away or chill them briefly in the refrigerator before serving. They can be enjoyed as a delightful appetizer or a fun snack for any gathering!
Enjoy this fresh, colorful, and flavorful antipasto wreath as a delightful appetizer or party snack! Your guests will love it!
Can I Use Different Ingredients?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap in your favorite cured meats like prosciutto or capicola, and you can even use fresh mozzarella or gouda instead of feta. Get creative with your favorite antipasto items!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Any leftover skewers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just note that the ingredients may soften, especially the tomatoes and basil. They’re best enjoyed fresh!
Can I Prepare These Skewers in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the skewers up to 24 hours in advance. Just cover them tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. Drizzle with olive oil and season just before serving to keep them fresh.
What Can I Serve These Skewers With?
These skewers pair wonderfully with a side of crusty bread, crackers, or a light salad. They also make a great addition to a charcuterie board alongside dips and fresh fruit!
