Antipasto Skewer

These easy Antipasto Pasta Skewers are a fun and flavorful twist on the classic antipasto platter — all your favorite bites on a stick! Perfect for parties, picnics, or an easy make-ahead appetizer, each skewer layers a cube of pepper jack cheese, a folded salami “bow,” a green olive, and a balsamic-seasoned bowtie pasta for the ultimate bite-sized snack. They’re colorful, simple to assemble, and guaranteed to impress with minimal effort.

Ingredients (makes about 12 skewers):

• 8oz pepperjack cheese (cut into cubes)

• 12 slices salami (thinly sliced, about 2” diameter)

• 12 green olives

• 12 pieces bowtie (farfalle) pasta, cooked and cooled

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar

• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning

• Pinch of salt and black pepper

• 12 small skewers or cocktail picks

Instructions:

1. Cook the pasta:
   Boil the bowtie pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain, rinse under cold water, and pat dry. In a small bowl, toss the cooked pasta with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Set aside.

2. Fold the salami:
   Take each slice of salami and fold it in half, then fold it in half again to create a small “bow” shape. You can secure the folds with the skewer as you assemble.

3. Assemble the skewers:
   On each skewer, layer in this order:

   1. Pasta (this will be on top once assembled)

   2. Green olive

   3. Salami

   4. Cube of cheese (this is the base)

4. Serve or store:
   Arrange the skewers on a platter and drizzle lightly with any leftover balsamic mixture if desired. Serve immediately, or refrigerate until ready to serve (up to 4 hours).

Serving Tips:

• These skewers are great for cocktail parties, brunch spreads, or picnics.

• Swap the pepper jack for mozzarella cubes or sharp cheddar for a milder flavor.

• Add cherry tomatoes or roasted red peppers for extra color and variety.