Italian Antipasto Skewers with Marinated Tortellini and Mozzarella

This recipe takes the classic antipasto platter and transforms it into an eye-catching, hand-held appetizer that’s easy to assemble and totally satisfying. It’s basically a pasta salad on a stick—with layers of textures and flavors from the creamy cheese, tangy veggies, herby marinade, and savory meats.

I made these once for a bridal shower, and they were gone within 15 minutes. People were literally pulling them off the tray while I was still setting them out.

Why You’ll Love These Skewers

• Make-ahead friendly – perfect for prepping a day before your event.
• Bold Italian flavor – thanks to the herby marinated tortellini and salami.
• Totally customizable – mix and match with your favorite antipasto ingredients.
• No utensils required – the easiest party food ever.
• Gorgeous presentation – colorful and vibrant for any table.

Prep Time and Servings

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 20–24 skewers
• Calories per skewer: ~140
• Protein: 6g | Carbs: 9g | Fat: 9g

Ingredients

For the Skewers:

• 1 (9 oz) package refrigerated cheese tortellini
• 20–24 mini mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine)
• 20–24 cherry tomatoes
• 20–24 pitted olives (green, kalamata, or a mix)
• 20–24 slices of salami or turkey pepperoni, folded
• ½ cup roasted red peppers, chopped or cut into strips
• Fresh basil leaves (optional)
• 20–24 wooden skewers (6- to 8-inch)

For the Tortellini Marinade:

• ¼ cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar or balsamic vinegar
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook and Marinate the Tortellini

• Cook tortellini according to package directions. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking.
• In a medium bowl, whisk together olive oil, vinegar, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
• Add the cooked tortellini and toss to coat. Let marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes, or up to 24 hours.

Step 2: Assemble the Skewers

On each skewer, thread the following (or any order you like!):

1. One marinated tortellini
2. One cherry tomato
3. One folded slice of salami or turkey pepperoni
4. One mozzarella ball
5. One olive
6. One piece of roasted red pepper
7. Optional: a small fresh basil leaf for brightness

Repeat until all skewers are filled. You can double up on ingredients depending on skewer size.

Step 3: Arrange and Serve

• Arrange skewers on a large platter or tray.
• Drizzle lightly with extra marinade or olive oil just before serving.
• Garnish with extra chopped herbs or a few whole basil sprigs.

How to Serve

• As a party appetizer: Serve on a festive platter with toothpicks or cocktail napkins nearby.
• With a grazing board: Surround with extra antipasto ingredients, cheeses, nuts, and crackers.
• At picnics or BBQs: Perfect portable side for warm-weather gatherings.
• As a light lunch: Pair 3–4 skewers with crusty bread and a side salad.

Tips for Success

1. Let the tortellini marinate as long as possible for the best flavor.
2. Keep everything bite-sized for easy snacking.
3. Use sturdy skewers—wooden or bamboo skewers hold up best.
4. Rinse olives and peppers if they’re packed in brine to balance flavors.
5. Chill before serving—these taste best cold or at room temp.

Recipe Variations

• Vegetarian version: Skip the salami and double up on veggies or add artichoke hearts.
• Caprese twist: Use mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, basil, and tortellini only.
• Spicy version: Use hot soppressata and add pepperoncini slices.
• Mini skewers: Use cocktail picks and only 3–4 ingredients for bite-sized snacks.
• Pesto drizzle: Add a spoonful of pesto to the marinade or drizzle over before serving.

Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

• Fridge: Store assembled skewers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Make ahead: Marinate the tortellini and prep ingredients the day before; assemble the skewers a few hours before serving.
• Avoid sogginess: Pat roasted peppers and mozzarella dry before assembling.

FAQ

Can I use frozen tortellini?
Yes—just cook according to package instructions, cool completely, and marinate as directed.

Do I need to use meat?
Nope! These are just as delicious vegetarian. Add artichokes, pickled onions, or more veggies instead.

What’s the best cheese for this?
Mini mozzarella balls are ideal, but you can cube up mozzarella, provolone, or even marinated feta.

Can I serve them warm?
They’re best chilled or room temp—but you can gently warm the skewers if you want the cheese a little melty.

Conclusion

These Italian Antipasto Skewers with Marinated Tortellini and Mozzarella are your new go-to party app—easy to make, stunning on a platter, and loaded with flavor. They’re the kind of appetizer that looks fancy but is secretly so simple, and they never last long once they hit the table.

Make a big batch, mix up the ingredients to fit your style, and watch these get devoured at your next gathering. If you make them, don’t forget to tag me—I’d love to see your antipasto masterpieces!

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