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Remember that summer barbecue at Aunt Carol's? The one where the sun was blazing, the kids were running wild, and the adults were huddled around the picnic table, swapping stories and laughter? Well, these American Antipasto Skewers bring back that exact vibe. They're fun, approachable, and require absolutely zero fuss. It's like summer on a stick!
But what exactly makes these skewers 'American'? Think of your favorite deli counter staples—cubes of cheddar and jack cheese, juicy cherry tomatoes, briny dill pickles, and savory salami. Throw in some crusty bread or crackers for a bit of crunch, and you've got yourself a skewer that screams 'Stars and Stripes!'
These aren't just for cookouts, either. Need a quick and easy appetizer for a potluck? Got a last-minute invite to a friend's game night? These skewers are your answer. They require minimal prep, are easily customizable to suit different dietary needs, and are always a hit with both kids and adults. Plus, who doesn't love eating food off a stick?
Required Equipments
Cutting board
Knife
Skewers
Platter
American Antipasto Skewers: A Simple Delight: Frequently Asked Questions
American Antipasto Skewers: A Simple Delight
American Antipasto Skewers are the perfect appetizer! Combining classic American flavors into a simple, easy-to-assemble treat, these skewers are always a crowd-pleaser.
⏳ Yield & Time
Yield:6 servings
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time:
🍽 Ingredients
📖 Instructions
First, gather all your ingredients. It's always easier to assemble when everything is prepped and within reach. Slice your cheese into approximately 1-inch cubes. I personally like using a mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack, but feel free to use whatever cheese you prefer. Provolone or pepper jack would also be great choices!
Next, slice your salami or pepperoni into similar-sized pieces. If you're using larger slices, you might want to fold them in half or quarters so they're easier to skewer. Avoid any overly complex slicing method, simpler is better to achieve a balance of flavor.
Now for the pickles! I like using small dill pickles, but you can use pickle spears cut into smaller segments. Make sure to pat them dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. Nobody wants a soggy skewer!
Wash and dry your cherry tomatoes. If you're feeling fancy, you can use a mix of red, yellow, and orange tomatoes for a pop of color. This step should be simple enough and you shouldn't run into any problems.
If you're using crusty bread or crackers, cut them into bite-sized pieces. You can lightly toast the bread for extra flavor and texture, but this isn't strictly necessary.
Now comes the fun part—assembling the skewers! Thread the ingredients onto each skewer in whatever order you like. I usually alternate between cheese, meat, pickles, and tomatoes for a good balance of flavors and colors. I am a bit biased but it seems to get the best results this way!
Once all the skewers are assembled, arrange them on a platter. You can drizzle them with a bit of olive oil or balsamic glaze for extra flavor. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, try a sprinkle of Italian seasoning or red pepper flakes.
Serve immediately and watch them disappear! If you're making them ahead of time, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. But be warned – they're best when served fresh.
📝 Notes
For a vegetarian version, substitute the salami with marinated artichoke hearts or roasted red peppers.
Feel free to add other vegetables like olives, cucumber, or bell peppers.