Antipasto Kabobs

Antipasto kabobs are an irresistible twist on the classic Italian appetizer, bursting with the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean. They’re not just delicious — they also add a pop of color and a touch of elegance to any spread. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, planning a picnic, or just looking for a delectable bite, antipasto kabobs are the perfect choice. Keep reading to discover how to craft these flavor-packed treats that will have your guests coming back for more.

Antipasto Kabobs

Ingredients to Make Antipasto Kabobs

To start, gather the necessary ingredients for your antipasto kabobs. You’ll need an assortment of traditional antipasto ingredients such as:

• 1 package (9 oz) cheese tortellini
• 40 pimiento-stuffed olives
• 40 large pitted ripe olives
• 3/4 cup Italian salad dressing
• 40 thin slices pepperoni
• 20 thin slices hard salami, halved
• Water (for the tortellini)
• Salt (optional)

Ingredients for Italian salad dressing:

• ¼ cup olive oil
• 2 tbsp white wine vinegar
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp honey
• ½ tsp Dijon mustard
• 1 garlic clove
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• ½ tsp dried thyme
• Pinch of sea salt and ground black pepper
• 2 tbsp parmesan cheese (optional)

How to Make Antipasto Kabobs

Make Italian salad dressing (make ahead):

On the cutting board, finely chop the fresh parsley and the garlic.

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, vinegar, lemon juice, fresh parsley, honey, oregano, garlic, mustard, thyme, salt, and pepper. If desired, you can stir in the parmesan.

Reserve ¾ cup of the dressing and refrigerate the rest of the dressing for another use.

Cook the tortellini:

In a large pot, bring water to a boil, you can add some salt in the water if desired. Add the tortellini in the water and stir a few times to prevent sticking together. Cook according to package directions. Drain and rinse in cold water. 

In a large bowl add the tortellini, the two types of olives and pour the Italian salad dressing over it. Mix well to combine. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.

Discard the marinade from the mixture.

Assembling the Antipasto Kabobs:

Take a skewer and add a stuffed olive, a cheese tortellini, a folded pepperoni piece, a ripe olive and a folded salami piece. You can layer your kabob any way you wish, placing more of your favorites on the skewer. 

Repeat layers as desired.

Presentation and Serving Suggestions

The key to a crowd-pleasing presentation is creativity. Here are some ideas to serve and present your antipasto kabobs with flair:

• Arrange them in a basket for casual gatherings or on a sleek platter for a more formal setting.
• Place them over a bed of fresh greens or drizzle balsamic glaze for an extra touch of flavor.
• Consider pairing the kabobs with a selection of breads such as focaccia or baguette slices, encouraging guests to create their own bite-sized flavor combinations.
• Offering a variety of dips, like pesto or hummus, can also enhance the tasting experience, making each skewer an adventure in taste.
• Lastly, don’t forget about the beverages! A well-chosen wine or a refreshing cocktail can complement the flavors of the antipasto kabobs beautifully. Consider light, crisp wines such as Prosecco or a Chardonnay for a harmonious pairing that won’t overpower the delicate flavors of your appetizers. For a non-alcoholic option, a sparkling water with a twist of lemon or lime adds a refreshing touch. Always remember, the goal is to enhance the overall dining experience by carefully selecting drinks that balance the flavors of the antipasto kabobs, creating a memorable culinary adventure for your guests.

Remember, the essence of a great antipasto kabob lies in the mix of flavors and textures, so invite your guests to explore and enjoy the variety.

Variations and Customizations

One of the best things about antipasto kabobs is the ability to customize them to your taste:

• Vegetarian? Sub in grilled veggies like zucchini and eggplant.
• Have dietary restrictions to consider? Opt for gluten-free kabobs or those without dairy.
• Looking for a spicy kick? Incorporate some pickled peppers or marinated jalapenos.
• If you’re aiming for a lighter fare, try threading some fresh fruits like figs or melon balls into the mix.
• The kabobs can easily be adapted to feature seafood, such as shrimp or smoked salmon, offering a delightful twist to the traditional antipasto ingredients.

The key is to experiment with the array of ingredients available, catering to your guests’ palette while simultaneously exploring new flavor combinations.

Frequently Asked Questions About Antipasto Kabobs

Can antipasto kabobs be made the day before the event?

Absolutely! Antipasto kabobs can be prepared up to a day in advance. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. However, for the best flavor and texture, consider drizzling with any dressings or adding any delicate herbs shortly before serving.

How long can antipasto kabobs stay out during an event?

For food safety, antipasto kabobs should not be left out at room temperature for more than 2 hours. If your event is outdoors and the temperature exceeds 90°F (32°C), this time is reduced to just 1 hour.

Are there any nut-free options for antipasto kabobs?

Certainly! While nuts are not a traditional component of antipasto kabobs, be mindful of cross-contamination if you’re serving guests with nut allergies. Stick to nut-free cheeses, meats, and other ingredients, and ensure that no products used in the kabobs have been processed in facilities that also handle nuts.

Can antipasto kabobs be made gluten-free?

Yes, making gluten-free antipasto kabobs is straightforward since most of the traditional ingredients naturally do not contain gluten – except for the tortellini, which is available gluten-free. However, it’s crucial to check the labels on products like cured meats and cheeses to ensure they haven’t been processed with additives that contain gluten.

What are some vegan options for antipasto kabobs?

Vegan antipasto kabobs can be equally delicious, focusing on marinated vegetables, olives, and vegan cheeses. Consider adding grilled tofu or vegan meat substitutes for added protein. Artichoke hearts, cherry tomatoes, and roasted bell peppers also make flavorful vegan-friendly options.

How can I ensure the kabobs stay on the skewers without falling off?

To keep everything secure on the skewers, ensure the ingredients are not sliced too thinly, and avoid overloading the skewers. Using two-pronged skewers or thicker, sturdier skewers can also help prevent ingredients from spinning or sliding off when being picked up or eaten.

Antipasto kabobs not only look sophisticated, but they are also incredibly easy to make and customize.

They lend themselves to a variety of occasions and dietary needs, making them a versatile choice for your next event.

By following the tips above, you’ll be well on your way to creating a delightful appetizer that will surely become a staple at your table.

Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, these kabobs are a foolproof way to impress your guests. Enjoy experimenting with different ingredient combinations to find your favorite flavor profile!

More Fun Picnic Ideas You’ll Love

Planning a picnic can be so much fun! To help you get your little outdoor excursion pulled together, we’ve got some more fun picnic ideas we think you’ll love:

• 17 Picnic Desserts That Don’t Need Refrigeration
• Classic Italian Picnic Sandwich
• How to Plan an Authentic Italian Picnic
• 17 Breakfast Picnic Ideas