Crowd Pleaser Tortellini Antipasto Skewers

These crowd pleasing Tortellini Antipasto Skewers are such a delicious and easy appetizer to make for any occasion. These are a staple for us and they look so much fancier than they are.

When it comes to quick, easy, and crowd-pleasing appetizers, antipasto skewers are a top contender. These little bites are packed with bold flavors and are as visually appealing as they are delicious. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering, a casual get-together, or looking for a fun dish to bring to a potluck, antipasto skewers are a perfect choice. Not only are they simple to prepare, but they also offer a variety of textures and tastes that will leave your guests coming back for more.

In this blog post, I’ll show you how to make antipasto skewers using a few easy-to-find ingredients, including cheese tortellini, cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella balls, salami, olives, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. Plus, I’ll share a few tips for presentation and variations you can try to make these skewers your own.

What Are Antipasto Skewers?

Antipasto refers to the traditional Italian appetizer course, usually consisting of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and marinated vegetables. The beauty of antipasto is that it offers a diverse selection of savory flavors all in one bite.

Antipasto skewers take these classic Italian flavors and stack them on a skewer for a portable, easy-to-eat appetizer. They’re perfect for parties because they’re fuss-free and don’t require utensils—guests can simply grab a skewer and enjoy! The combination of savory salami, creamy mozzarella, tangy olives, and a touch of sweet balsamic glaze makes these skewers irresistible.

What ingredients you need to make these Tortellini Antipasto Skewers:

• Cheese tortellinis – This provides a hearty and filling base to the skewers. The tender, cheese-filled pasta contrasts beautifully with the other flavors. Use gluten-free if needed.
• Balsamic glaze + more for garnish – Adds a sweet and tangy note to the skewers, which complements the richness of the salami and mozzarella.
• Cherry tomatoes – Fresh, juicy, and slightly sweet, cherry tomatoes add a burst of color and flavor.
• Salami cubes or small slices – You can use small slices or cube it for easier skewering. The salami brings a salty, savory punch to the skewers.
• Kalamata or green olives – These add a briny, slightly tart element that pairs well with the other ingredients.
• Mozzarella balls – The creaminess of the mozzarella balances the saltiness of the salami and olives.
• Basil leaves – These add a pop of freshness, flavor and a vibrant green color.
• 8-10 wood skewers – this is what we use to build the skewers

Instructions on making these Antipasto Skewers:

1. Cook the tortellini: Begin by cooking the cheese tortellini according to the package instructions. Once they’re done, strain the pasta and rinse them with cold water to stop the cooking process and cool them down for skewering. After they’ve cooled, drizzle about 1/2 tablespoon of balsamic glaze over the tortellini and gently toss to coat.

2. Assemble the skewers: Now for the fun part—assembling the skewers! Start by piercing one piece of each ingredient onto the wooden skewer and sliding it down towards the bottom. The order is entirely up to you, but I like to start with a piece of tortellini, followed by a cherry tomato, salami, mozzarella ball, and olive. If you’re using basil leaves, you can place one in between the mozzarella and the olive for an added burst of color and flavor.

   Tip: If your salami comes in slices, fold each slice in half, then in half again to form a triangle shape. This gives the skewers a nice presentation and ensures the salami stays neatly in place.

3. Arrange and garnish: Once all the skewers are assembled, place them neatly on a serving platter. For an extra touch of flavor, drizzle a bit more balsamic glaze over the top of the skewers before serving. This adds a finishing sweetness and makes the skewers look even more appealing.

Tips for Success:

• Choose high-quality ingredients: Since this dish has only a few components, using high-quality ingredients makes a big difference. Opt for fresh mozzarella balls, premium salami, and ripe, juicy cherry tomatoes.
• Vary the ingredients: Feel free to switch things up based on your preferences. You can use artichoke hearts, roasted red peppers, or marinated mushrooms for a unique twist. Prosciutto or pepperoni can also be great alternatives to salami.
• Make ahead: One of the best parts about these antipasto skewers is that they can be prepared ahead of time. Assemble the skewers a few hours before your event, cover them with plastic wrap, and refrigerate them. Just add the final drizzle of balsamic glaze right before serving.
• Serve with a dipping sauce: While the balsamic glaze adds plenty of flavor, you can also serve these skewers with a side of pesto, marinara sauce, or even a garlic aioli for dipping.

Why Antipasto Skewers Are Perfect for Entertaining:

There are so many reasons why antipasto skewers are an ideal appetizer for any occasion. Here are just a few:

1. Easy to eat: Since the ingredients are all neatly arranged on a skewer, these appetizers are mess-free and require no plates or utensils. Your guests can simply grab one and enjoy.
2. Customizable: You can easily adapt the recipe to suit your preferences or dietary needs. If you’re serving vegetarians, omit the salami or use a plant-based alternative. You can also mix and match different ingredients to create a flavor profile that fits your theme.
3. Beautiful presentation: Antipasto skewers are visually stunning. The combination of colors from the tomatoes, basil, mozzarella, and olives makes them a centerpiece-worthy dish.
4. Crowd-pleaser: The variety of flavors in these skewers ensures there’s something for everyone. Whether your guests love savory, salty, or creamy flavors, these skewers have it all.
5. Minimal prep and cleanup: With just a few ingredients and no cooking (other than boiling the tortellini), antipasto skewers come together quickly. Plus, there are no pots and pans to clean after!

Perfect Pairings:

Antipasto skewers pair well with a variety of other appetizers and beverages. For a full Italian-inspired spread, serve them alongside bruschetta, caprese salad, or marinated vegetables. They also complement a variety of wines, such as a crisp Pinot Grigio or a bold Chianti, as well as cocktails like Aperol spritzes or negronis.

Antipasto skewers are a versatile, flavorful, and stunning appetizer that is perfect for any gathering. Whether you’re hosting a casual party, celebrating the holidays, or just looking for a fun and easy dish to make, these skewers are sure to impress your guests. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, they’re a must-try for any occasion.

So next time you’re planning a menu, keep these antipasto skewers in mind. Their vibrant colors and bold flavors make them not only delicious but also a visual treat. Plus, the combination of cheese, salami, and balsamic glaze will have everyone reaching for seconds!

Enjoy, and happy hosting!

A few other delicious appetizer recipes to try:

Greek 7 Layer Dip with Za’atar

The BEST Healthy French Onion Dip!

Easy Delicious Goat Cheese Board

Spinach Artichoke Dip Cups (gluten-free)