Simple Antipasto Skewers

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These Antipasto Skewers are one of my favorite appetizers to make when I need something easy, quick, crowd-pleasing, and perfect for summer parties. It’s all the best parts of an Italian antipasto platter—salami, olives, marinated mozzarella, cherry tomatoes—stacked onto skewers so they’re easy to grab and eat.

A plate of colorful antipasto skewers arranged neatly.

Whether you’re making these for summer barbecues, pool parties, picnics, outdoor gatherings, or casual get-togethers, these skewers bring a touch of flavor and fun to the table. No cooking required. Just assemble and serve (or pop them in the fridge until you're ready).

Be sure to check out my Cantaloupe Prosciutto Skewers—they’re the perfect sweet-and-salty bite—and don’t miss the Flavorful Caprese Salad Skewers for a fresh, herby option that’s always a crowd-pleaser. Both are just as simple and party-ready!

Ingredients

Small bowls filled with olives, salami, mozzarella balls, and cherry tomatoes.

Large Olives: Briny and bold, olives add a salty bite that pairs perfectly with the creamy cheese and savory meat.
Salami: Adds a bit of texture and makes each skewer feel hearty and satisfying.
Mozarella Balls: Balance the saltiness of the olives and meat, giving the skewer a smooth, fresh bite.
Cherry Tomatoes: Brighten everything up and add a beautiful pop of color to each skewer.

See recipe card for quantities.

How to Make Simple Antipasto Skewers

A toothpick with a single green olive skewered on it.

On a large toothpick or appetizer skewer, place an olive.

A toothpick with a green olive and a folded slice of salami skewered together.

Next, fold a slice of salami in half, then in half again, and skewer it right under the olive.

A single antipasto skewer with an olive, folded salami, mozzarella ball, and cherry tomato on a plate.

Add a mozzarella ball, followed by a cherry tomato.

Close-up photo of a plate with colorful antipasto skewers arranged neatly.

Serve right away or chill in the fridge until ready to serve.

Hint: If you're short on time, prep all the ingredients ahead of time (like slicing the salami and draining the mozzarella), and assemble the skewers right before serving. This keeps everything fresh and flavorful!

Substitutions & Variations

If you don’t have marinated mozzarella, use plain mozzarella balls and drizzle with olive oil + Italian seasoning.
For Olives, you can use your favorite kind—green, black, or even stuffed ones.
For Meatless Option, swap salami for roasted red pepper slices or artichoke hearts for a vegetarian twist.
For Add-ons, try adding basil leaves, pepperoncini, or small tortellini for fun extras.
For Vegan Option, use dairy-free cheese and grilled veggie slices.

💭Crucial Success Tips

Use sturdy toothpicks or appetizer skewers so everything stays put.
Fold the salami neatly so it adds a little texture and doesn’t overwhelm the other ingredients.
Pat the mozzarella and tomatoes dry to avoid soggy skewers.
Assemble right before serving if you want the freshest look—but they hold up well in the fridge too.
Chill for flavor: If you have time, let the skewers rest in the fridge for 30 minutes so the flavors meld together beautifully.

FAQ

Can I make these the day before?

Yes! Assemble them a few hours in advance and refrigerate in an airtight container.

Can I make a larger batch for a party?

Absolutely! Just double or triple the ingredients based on how many guests you’re serving.

📖 Recipe

17 servings

Simple Antipasto Skewers

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 10 minutes

These Antipasto Skewers are a tasty and simple appetizer, packed with Italian favorites like cured meat, cheese, olives, and veggies. They're quick to make and always a hit at any party!

Ingredients

17 large olives
½ lb deli style hard salami
12 oz marinated mozzarella balls
1 pt cherry tomatoes

Instructions

On a large toothpick or appetizer skewer, place an olive.
Next, fold a slice of salami in half, then in half again, and skewer it right under the olive.
Add a mozzarella ball, followed by a cherry tomato.
Serve right away or chill in the fridge until ready to serve.

Notes

NOTE: The servings will really depend on how many mozzarella balls are in your container, and cherry tomatoes. My 12 oz container of marinated mozzarella had 17 mozzarella balls, my pint of cherry tomatoes had 22

Nutrition Information:

Yield:

Serving Size:

1
Amount Per Serving: Calories: 116Total Fat: 9gSaturated Fat: 4gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 392mgCarbohydrates: 1gFiber: 0gSugar: 0gProtein: 7g

How to Store Simple Antipasto Skewers

Place your assembled skewers in a single layer in an airtight container. You can stack them with a piece of parchment or wax paper in between layers to prevent sticking. Keep them refrigerated and enjoy within 1–2 days for the best taste and texture.