These Antipasto Wreath Skewers are a fun and tasty way to enjoy your favorite Italian bites! Packed with olives, salami, cheese, and veggies, they look great and taste even better.
Making these skewers is like a party on a stick! I love arranging them in a wreath shape; it’s perfect for sharing at get-togethers. Plus, they’re so colorful, they really brighten up the table!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Feta Cheese: Marinated feta adds great flavor, but you can swap it with mozzarella balls or cubed provolone if needed. Both work well with the other ingredients.
Salami or Prosciutto: I love using salami for its spice, but prosciutto gives a lovely sweetness. Feel free to switch for turkey or vegan deli slices if you want a lighter or vegetarian alternative.
Olives: Kalamata olives offer a rich flavor, but green olives provide a nice crunchy contrast. You can also use black olives or skip them for a milder taste.
Cherry Tomatoes: Any small tomato will work here! If you can’t find cherry tomatoes, grape tomatoes are a great choice. Just make sure they’re bite-sized.
How Do I Assemble a Beautiful Wreath Skewer?
Assembling your wreath skewers is straightforward but can be tricky if you’re aiming for a beautiful look. Start by washing and drying your rosemary. It not only adds flavor but also creates that pretty wreath shape. Here’s a quick breakdown:
- Thread a cube of marinated feta on the skewer first, this helps anchor it.
- Follow with a cherry tomato, then a Kalamata olive, and a green olive – this adds color!
- Next, slide on a piece of pepperoncini for a little kick, and finally, cap it off with the folded slice of salami or prosciutto.
Lay these skewers gently around your rosemary circle for the best visual impact. Don’t rush; take your time to arrange them nicely!
Antipasto Wreath Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 wooden skewers or toothpicks
- 12 cubes of marinated feta cheese
- 12 slices of salami or prosciutto, folded or rolled
- 12 cherry tomatoes (red and yellow mixed)
- 12 Kalamata olives
- 12 green olives
- 12 pieces of pepperoncini or pickled peppers
- Fresh rosemary sprigs (for wreath “greenery”)
- Optional: chopped fresh oregano or Italian seasoning for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes about 20 minutes to prepare. Perfect for a quick and impressive appetizer that can be made right before your event!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Rosemary Base:
Start by rinsing and drying the fresh rosemary sprigs. Arrange them in a circle on your serving board or platter. This will be the base of your beautiful wreath and adds a lovely aroma!
2. Assemble the Skewers:
For each wooden skewer, start by threading on a cube of marinated feta cheese. Next, add a cherry tomato, followed by a Kalamata olive, a green olive, and a piece of pepperoncini. Finally, finish it off with a folded slice of salami or prosciutto. Continue this process until all 12 skewers are assembled.
3. Arrange the Skewers:
Once you have all your skewers ready, gently place them upright around the circle of rosemary. Make sure the cheese and meats are facing up for a beautiful and appetizing display. It’s all about the presentation!
4. Garnish and Serve:
If you’d like, sprinkle a few chopped fresh oregano or Italian seasoning over the top for an extra touch of flavor. You can serve them right away or refrigerate them briefly before the guests arrive. These appetizers pair wonderfully with crusty bread and a little drizzle of olive oil on the side.
Enjoy creating this colorful and festive antipasto wreath skewer platter! It’s sure to impress at any gathering or celebration!
Can I Use Different Ingredients for the Skewers?
Absolutely! You can customize these skewers based on your preferences. Feel free to substitute marinated feta with mozzarella balls or provolone. You can also change up the meats—try using turkey or a vegetarian deli option.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’re best enjoyed within 2-3 days. Keep in mind that the freshness of the vegetables might decrease, so try to eat them sooner rather than later!
Can I Prepare These Skewers in Advance?
Yes! You can assemble the skewers a few hours ahead of time and keep them refrigerated until you’re ready to serve. Just wait to arrange them on the rosemary wreath until closer to serving for the best presentation.
What Should I Serve with the Skewers?
These antipasto wreath skewers pair well with crusty bread, cheese, and a drizzle of olive oil. You might also consider offering a variety of dips, like balsamic glaze or pesto, for added flavors!
