Antipasto Skewers with Shallot Balsamic Dressing: A Simple yet Flavorful Delight

If you’ve ever been to an Italian restaurant or partaken in a Mediterranean-inspired gathering, you’ve likely encountered the joy of antipasto—those little bites full of bold flavors, vibrant colors, and aromatic delights. Antipasto, meaning “before the meal” in Italian, is traditionally the first course of an Italian meal, designed to awaken the appetite for the main courses that follow. However, antipasto skewers, specifically when paired with a shallot balsamic dressing, offer an elevated yet easy-to-prepare take on this beloved appetizer, perfect for serving at parties, picnics, or family meals. This dish combines a variety of ingredients, from fresh herbs and creamy mozzarella to the savory depths of Genoa salami and the briny bite of olives, all drizzled with a tangy balsamic dressing to bring everything together.

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The appeal of antipasto skewers lies in their simplicity and versatility. They bring the vibrant Mediterranean flavors to your table in a fun, bite-sized form that’s easy to eat and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re looking for an appetizer to share with friends or a refreshing snack for yourself, antipasto skewers are always a crowd-pleaser. They offer a perfect balance of textures—crunchy, creamy, salty, and savory—making them an exciting start to any meal. Plus, these skewers are quick to prepare, requiring only 20 minutes, and they can be made ahead of time to make your hosting even easier.

A Perfect Mediterranean Appetizer

These antipasto skewers are a celebration of Mediterranean ingredients that have been enjoyed for centuries. The combination of mozzarella, salami, olives, tomatoes, and basil showcases the region’s love for fresh, high-quality ingredients. This Mediterranean-inspired appetizer is packed with the colors, aromas, and textures that make the region’s cuisine so beloved. You get bursts of sweetness from the grape tomatoes, tangy brininess from the olives, and the delightful creaminess of mozzarella, all offset by the zesty tang of balsamic vinegar and the aromatic shallots in the dressing. Each bite provides a satisfying contrast of flavors, creating a memorable experience for your taste buds.

Ingredients Breakdown

Now that we understand the appeal of these antipasto skewers, let’s break down the ingredients used to make them. These skewers are packed with high-quality, easy-to-find ingredients that can be swapped or adjusted according to your personal preferences or dietary needs. Here’s a closer look at each component:

For the Skewers:

1. Grape Tomatoes (16 pieces) – The small, bite-sized grape tomatoes bring a burst of natural sweetness to the skewers. When you bite into one, it offers a juicy, refreshing contrast to the savory elements of the dish. Their bright red color adds visual appeal to the skewers, making them irresistible on the plate.
2. Fresh Basil (16 leaves) – The fresh basil leaves are an aromatic and flavorful addition, providing a fragrant note that enhances the freshness of the other ingredients. Basil pairs wonderfully with mozzarella and tomatoes, and its herbaceous flavor complements the richness of the salami and olives.
3. Mozzarella Balls (16 pieces, ciliegine) – Mozzarella balls, also known as ciliegine, are small, round pieces of mozzarella that are perfect for skewering. Their mild, creamy flavor offers a soft, delicate contrast to the more intense flavors of the salami and olives. The mozzarella balances out the tanginess of the vinegar dressing, making each bite smooth and delicious.
4. Genoa Salami (8 ounces, thinly sliced) – Genoa salami is a type of Italian dry-cured salami known for its smooth texture and rich, savory flavor. The salami is sliced thinly, and when folded onto the skewers, it adds a satisfying depth of flavor. The slight saltiness and smoky taste of the salami work in perfect harmony with the other ingredients.
5. Black Olives (16 pieces, pitted and drained) – Black olives are a staple in Mediterranean cuisine, and their briny flavor adds a sharp contrast to the rich mozzarella and creamy textures. The olives help balance out the richness of the skewers, providing a burst of tangy flavor with each bite. Their deep color also adds to the visual appeal of the dish.
6. Pepperoncinis (8 whole, cut in half, stems removed) – Pepperoncinis are mild, tangy peppers that add just a touch of heat to the skewers. They help balance out the richness of the salami and mozzarella with their refreshing acidity. When cut in half and skewered, they offer a crunchy texture and a hint of spice, which brightens up the overall flavor profile.

For the Shallot Balsamic Dressing:

1. Olive Oil (1/4 cup) – Olive oil forms the base of the dressing and adds a rich, smooth texture. Its mild, fruity flavor is the perfect foundation for the zesty vinegar and the other ingredients, bringing everything together into a harmonious dressing.
2. Balsamic Vinegar (1 tablespoon) – Balsamic vinegar provides the dressing with a tangy, slightly sweet acidity. This vinegar is darker and more complex than regular vinegar, and its flavor deepens over time, adding layers of richness. It perfectly complements the creamy mozzarella and savory salami.
3. Dijon Mustard (2 teaspoons) – Dijon mustard adds a touch of sharpness and creaminess to the dressing. It also helps to emulsify the oil and vinegar, giving the dressing a smooth texture. The subtle spice of the mustard brings an extra dimension of flavor without overpowering the other ingredients.
4. Shallot (1 tablespoon, finely minced) – Shallots are a milder, sweeter alternative to onions. Their delicate, slightly tangy flavor enhances the dressing without overwhelming it. When minced finely, shallots blend seamlessly into the dressing, providing an aromatic kick that complements the other ingredients.
5. Garlic Powder (1 teaspoon, minced) – Garlic powder adds a savory depth to the dressing, infusing it with the familiar warmth and earthiness of garlic without being too overpowering. The garlic flavor complements the richness of the mozzarella and salami, helping to elevate the overall taste.
6. Italian Seasoning (1/2 tablespoon) – A blend of dried herbs like oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary, Italian seasoning brings a fragrant, herbaceous quality to the dressing. It ties all the Mediterranean ingredients together, giving the dressing an aromatic, savory note that lingers on the palate.
7. Kosher Salt (1/4 teaspoon) – A pinch of kosher salt is the finishing touch that helps balance all the flavors. Salt is an essential seasoning that enhances the natural flavors of the ingredients, ensuring that every bite is well-seasoned and satisfying.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Making these antipasto skewers is incredibly simple and requires very little time. Here’s how you can prepare this delicious dish in just a few easy steps:

1. Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, finely minced shallot, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and kosher salt. Whisk until the dressing is smooth and all ingredients are well incorporated. You can adjust the seasoning according to your preferences, adding more salt or vinegar to taste. Set the dressing aside and let it rest for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
2. Assemble the Skewers: Begin by threading the ingredients onto your skewers or food sticks in an alternating fashion. Start with a grape tomato, followed by a fresh basil leaf. Next, add a mozzarella ball, folding it slightly if needed to fit on the skewer. Then, layer on a piece of Genoa salami, folding it into a shape that fits snugly. Add a black olive and finish the skewer with a pepperoncini, cut in half with the stem removed. Repeat this process until all ingredients are used up. The key is to balance the different ingredients so that each skewer is visually appealing and full of flavor.
3. Brush with Dressing: Once the skewers are assembled, use a brush or spoon to generously drizzle the shallot balsamic dressing over each one. Make sure the dressing coats each ingredient well, allowing the flavors to sink in and infuse the skewers.
4. Serve and Enjoy: Arrange the antipasto skewers on a platter, making sure to present them in an aesthetically pleasing manner. You can serve them immediately or let them sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to come together. These skewers are best enjoyed fresh, but you can refrigerate them for a short time before serving if needed.

Tips for Success

• Ingredient Variations: If you prefer to make these skewers with a twist, feel free to substitute some of the ingredients. For example, you can swap the Genoa salami for prosciutto or pepperoni for a different flavor. If you’re not a fan of black olives, green olives or marinated artichokes can work just as well. You can also use larger mozzarella balls and cut them into smaller pieces to suit your preferences.
• Make Ahead: These antipasto skewers can be assembled up to a day ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. Simply brush the dressing over the skewers right before serving to maintain the freshness and vibrant colors. They are a perfect option for parties, picnics, or potlucks where you need to prepare ahead.
• Serving Suggestions: These skewers can be served on their own or as part of a larger Mediterranean-inspired spread. Consider pairing them with other appetizers like hummus, bruschetta, or a charcuterie board. For a more substantial meal, you can serve these skewers with a side of pasta, fresh bread, or a crisp salad.

Why You’ll Love These Antipasto Skewers

Antipasto skewers with shallot balsamic dressing are not only a feast for the eyes but a true explosion of flavor. From the creamy mozzarella and smoky salami to the tangy olives and sweet tomatoes, these skewers combine the very best of Mediterranean cuisine in one bite. The shallot balsamic dressing ties everything together with its sweet and tangy notes, making this dish a standout at any gathering. Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner or a sophisticated celebration, these antipasto skewers are sure to impress your guests and satisfy their appetites.

With their easy preparation, versatile ingredients, and vibrant flavors, these skewers are the perfect appetizer or snack to brighten up any occasion. So, next time you’re craving something quick, delicious, and full of Mediterranean flair, look no further than these antipasto skewers. They’re simple, flavorful, and absolutely irresistible.