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Antipasto Wreath Recipe

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4.4 from 24 reviews

This Antipasto Wreath is a vibrant and festive appetizer perfect for gatherings and celebrations. Featuring an array of Italian-inspired ingredients such as salami, artichoke hearts, cherry peppers, fresh mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, pepperoncini, olives, and fresh herbs, this no-cook recipe is beautifully arranged on skewers to create an attractive wreath shape. Served with optional balsamic glaze and Italian dressing, it offers a flavorful and easy-to-assemble starter that delights the eyes and palate.

Ingredients

Skewers

  • 30 to 40 4-inch skewers

Meats

  • 6 ounces thin sliced salami (preferably Italian style, such as Genoa or soppressata)

Vegetables and Pickles

  • 15 ounces jarred artichoke hearts, in water, quartered
  • 16 ounces jarred sweet cherry peppers, drained, seeded, and halved
  • 1 pint cherry tomatoes
  • Pepperoncini, quantity as desired for garnish
  • Pitted olives (such as kalamata or green olives), quantity as desired for garnish

Dairy

  • 8 ounces Fresh Mozzarella Ciliegine (small mozzarella balls)

Herbs and Garnishes

  • Fresh basil leaves, quantity as desired
  • Fresh rosemary sprigs, for decoration
  • Balsamic glaze, for serving (optional)
  • Italian dressing, for serving (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Skewers: Take each 4-inch skewer and start threading the antipasto ingredients onto it. Alternate the slices of salami, quartered artichoke hearts, halved cherry peppers, fresh mozzarella ciliegine, and cherry tomatoes to create a colorful and varied pattern on each skewer.
  2. Arrange the Wreath: Once all skewers are assembled, arrange them upright in a circular wreath shape on a large serving platter or tray. Use the fresh basil leaves and rosemary sprigs around and within the wreath to add greenery and aroma, placing pepperoncini and pitted olives intermittently to enhance the presentation.
  3. Serve with Dressings: Optionally, drizzle balsamic glaze over the wreath or provide bowls of balsamic glaze and Italian dressing for guests to dip or drizzle as desired. This adds an extra tangy and flavorful touch to the antipasto skewers.
  4. Final Presentation: Make sure the wreath looks full and balanced, with colors evenly distributed. Cover with plastic wrap if preparing ahead and refrigerate until ready to serve.

Notes

  • Salami: Use thinly sliced salami for easier skewering and better layering with other ingredients. Italian varieties like Genoa or soppressata work well.
  • Olives: Use your favorite pitted olives such as kalamata or green olives. Ensure they are pitted for easy eating on skewers.
  • Make Ahead: This appetizer can be prepared a few hours ahead. Keep refrigerated and cover with plastic wrap to maintain freshness.
  • Customization: Feel free to add other antipasto items such as small pepperoni slices, marinated mushrooms, or cubes of provolone cheese for variety.