Antipasto Skewers Recipe

Soak skewers (optional)

If using wooden skewers and serving outdoors or with wet ingredients, soak them in water for 15–20 minutes to reduce the chance of burning and to keep them sturdy.

Drain marinated artichoke hearts and roasted red pepper strips on paper towel to remove excess oil. Pat mozzarella balls dry with paper towel. Slice provolone or cheddar into bite-size cubes if not already done.

In a small bowl or jar, whisk together extra-virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper until emulsified. Taste and adjust seasoning. Set aside.

Lay out all ingredients within reach. For each skewer, thread items in this suggested sequence for balance and visual appeal: cherry tomato, folded slice of salami (fold once and thread so it sits like a ruffle), mozzarella ball, olive, small piece of provolone cube, artichoke quarter (folded if large), roasted red pepper strip (folded), pepperoncini ring, and finish with a basil leaf threaded near the end so it sits on top. Alternate order as desired. Make 12 skewers total.

If using prosciutto, drape a torn piece on the skewer between the salami and cheese or serve prosciutto loosely on the platter so it doesn't tear when skewered; you can also thread a small prosciutto piece as a last step by folding it into a small bundle and securing it on the skewer.

Arrange assembled skewers on a serving platter. Lightly brush or drizzle the prepared dressing over the skewers (use about half the dressing). Reserve remaining dressing for guests to add more if desired.

Garnish platter with extra basil leaves and a few whole olives or artichoke pieces. Let skewers sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes to allow flavors to meld, or chill up to 1 hour before serving. If chilled, bring to room temperature for 10 minutes before serving for best flavor.

Provide small plates and napkins; recommend guests eat skewers whole or slide components off the skewer onto bread or crackers if preferred.