Antipasto Skewers with Salami and Mozzarella are a vibrant, bite-sized twist on the traditional Italian antipasto platter. Perfect for parties, picnics, or elegant gatherings, these skewers combine savory meats, creamy cheeses, colorful vegetables, and briny olives into one irresistible bite. Inspired by classic Italian flavors, this appetizer delivers all the satisfaction of an antipasto board—without the need for plates or utensils.

They’re portable, easy to assemble, and visually stunning, making them the ultimate crowd-pleaser for any event. Whether served at a holiday feast or a casual summer barbecue, these skewers never fail to impress.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s delicious, effortless, and incredibly versatile. Each skewer is a miniature flavor explosion — the rich, salty salami pairs beautifully with creamy mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, and tangy olives.

It’s the kind of dish that looks fancy but takes just minutes to prepare. The colorful arrangement makes it look festive on any table, and it’s easy to customize based on what’s in season or available.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

This dish is a must-try because it captures all the flavors of Italian antipasto in a convenient, mess-free form. It’s perfect for entertaining since it can be made ahead of time, served chilled or at room temperature, and appeals to a wide range of palates.

The balance of textures — chewy salami, soft mozzarella, and crisp vegetables — ensures every bite is satisfying.

Recipe Details

• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Servings: 8–10 skewers
• Calories: Approximately 120–150 kcal per skewer
• Course: Appetizer / Snack
• Cuisine: Italian / Mediterranean-inspired

Ingredients

• 20 slices salami (folded in halves or quarters)
• 20 small mozzarella balls (bocconcini)
• 20 cherry tomatoes
• 10 pitted green or black olives
• 10 marinated artichoke hearts (optional)
• 1/2 cup roasted red pepper strips (optional)
• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tbsp balsamic glaze (optional, for drizzle)
• 1 tbsp fresh basil leaves or chopped parsley
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 10 small bamboo or metal skewers (6–8 inches long)

Cooking Directions

1. Prepare all ingredients — drain mozzarella balls and artichoke hearts, and pat dry with a paper towel.
2. On each skewer, thread a combination of ingredients such as salami, mozzarella, cherry tomato, olive, and basil leaf.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
4. Chill in the refrigerator for 10–15 minutes before serving.
5. Optional: drizzle with balsamic glaze just before serving.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

1. Prepare Ingredients: Drain mozzarella balls and artichoke hearts, if using, and pat them dry to prevent excess moisture. Wash cherry tomatoes and basil leaves thoroughly.
2. Arrange the Skewers: Start threading ingredients onto the skewers. A classic pattern might be: cherry tomato → basil leaf → salami (folded) → mozzarella ball → olive → artichoke heart.
3. Repeat: Continue assembling all skewers with the same pattern or mix it up for variety.
4. Season and Drizzle: Arrange skewers on a serving platter, drizzle with olive oil, and lightly season with salt and pepper.
5. Chill Before Serving: Refrigerate for 10–15 minutes to let the flavors blend.
6. Finish and Serve: Just before serving, drizzle lightly with balsamic glaze for a gourmet touch.

How to Serve

Serve Antipasto Skewers chilled or at room temperature on a large platter. Garnish with fresh basil leaves or a sprinkle of chopped parsley for added color. They pair perfectly with sparkling water, white wine (like Pinot Grigio), or a light red such as Chianti. These skewers also work beautifully as part of a larger charcuterie spread or alongside bruschetta and crostini for a complete Italian-inspired appetizer table.

Recipe Tips

• Use fresh mozzarella for the best texture and flavor — marinated mozzarella balls add an extra burst of taste.
• If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 10 minutes before assembling to prevent splintering.
• Pat ingredients dry before threading to keep the skewers crisp and avoid sogginess.
• Mix up the colors — the more vibrant the ingredients, the more visually stunning your platter will look.
• Assemble skewers up to 4 hours ahead and keep refrigerated until serving time.

Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Skip the salami and replace it with marinated mushrooms, grilled zucchini, or roasted bell peppers.
• Spicy Italian Twist: Use spicy salami or add a slice of jalapeño between ingredients for a little kick.
• Mediterranean Style: Add cubes of feta, kalamata olives, and roasted peppers for a Greek-inspired variation.
• Caprese Skewers: Stick to tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil with a balsamic drizzle for a lighter bite.
• Deluxe Version: Add small chunks of prosciutto-wrapped melon or sun-dried tomatoes for an elevated touch.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Store assembled skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Cover them with plastic wrap to prevent drying out.
• Freezing: Not recommended — fresh ingredients like mozzarella and tomatoes don’t freeze well and may become watery when thawed.
• Make Ahead: You can prep all ingredients a day before, store them separately, and assemble skewers just before serving.

Special Equipment Needed

• Bamboo or metal skewers (6–8 inches)
• Serving platter or tray
• Small bowl for olive oil and balsamic glaze
• Paper towels (for drying ingredients)
• Cutting board and small knife

FAQ

Q: Can I make these skewers in advance?
A: Yes! You can assemble them up to 4 hours before serving and store them in the fridge, covered with plastic wrap.

Q: Can I use different meats or cheeses?
A: Absolutely. Try prosciutto, pepperoni, or capicola for variation. For cheese, provolone or marinated feta also work well.

Q: How do I keep the skewers fresh for outdoor events?
A: Keep them chilled until serving time and serve over a platter with ice underneath if outdoors.

Q: Can I make these vegetarian or vegan?
A: Yes. For vegetarian, skip the meat and use marinated veggies; for vegan, use dairy-free cheese alternatives.

Q: What can I serve these skewers with?
A: They go beautifully with wine, Italian bread, dips like hummus, or even pasta salads.

Conclusion

Antipasto Skewers with Salami and Mozzarella are a vibrant, flavorful, and easy-to-make appetizer that embodies the best of Italian cuisine. Combining savory meats, creamy cheeses, and briny olives with fresh vegetables, these skewers deliver rich flavors in every bite. They’re elegant enough for formal gatherings yet simple enough for casual picnics, and their colorful presentation always steals the show. With endless possibilities for customization, these antipasto skewers are a must-have recipe for any entertainer who loves stylish, no-fuss appetizers that impress every guest.