Antipasto bites are like a mini party on a plate! These tasty treats usually include olives, cheese, deli meats, and colorful veggies all skewered together.
They are perfect for a quick snack or a fun appetizer at gatherings. I love popping them in my mouth while chatting with friends—so easy and so yummy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Baguette: The base of your antipasto bites! A fresh baguette adds great texture. If you can’t find one, you can use ciabatta or any crusty bread. Just make sure it’s sturdy enough to hold the toppings.
Fresh Mozzarella: I love using fresh mozzarella for its creamy texture. If you’re looking for a low-fat option, try part-skim mozzarella. You can also use feta for a tangy twist, but keep in mind it’ll change the flavor profile.
Salami or Italian Deli Meats: Prosciutto is my favorite because of its rich taste. You can swap it for turkey or chicken slices if you’d rather go lean or vegetarian alternatives like marinated tofu.
Roasted Peppers: Use marinated peppers for added flavor. If you’re in a pinch, fresh roasted bell peppers work too. Just roast them on a grill or broiler until charred and peel off the skin.
Olives: Kalamata and green olives give a nice brininess. You could use your favorite olives, just avoid overly stuffed ones which might be too heavy on top of other ingredients.
Pepperoncini: These add a nice mild heat. If you can’t find them, banana peppers or even jalapeños for a kick work too!
How Do I Toast the Baguette to Perfection?
Toasting the baguette rounds is crucial for a crunchy base. Here’s how to do it right:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) so the bread can get crispy.
- Slice the baguette and lay the pieces flat on a baking sheet. Lightly brush both sides with olive oil to enhance flavor.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes or until golden brown. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning!
- Let them cool slightly before adding toppings; they’ll firm up as they cool.
This method ensures your antipasto bites hold up perfectly against the toppings without getting soggy!
Antipasto Bites
Ingredients
- For the Base:
- 1 baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
- For the Fillings:
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella or marinated mozzarella cubes
- 8 oz salami or cured Italian deli meats (such as prosciutto or pepperoni), sliced
- 1 cup marinated roasted red and yellow bell peppers
- 1/2 cup kalamata and green olives
- 1/2 cup pepperoncini or mild pickled peppers
- For Flavoring:
- 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped (plus sprigs for garnish)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional)
- Salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste
- For Assembly:
- Toothpicks or small wooden skewers
Time Needed
This recipe takes about 20 minutes to prepare, including the time to toast the bread and assemble the antipasto bites. It’s a quick and delightful appetizer perfect for any gathering!
Instructions
1. Prepare the Baguette:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the sliced baguette rounds in a single layer on a baking sheet. Lightly brush both sides with olive oil to help them get deliciously golden and crispy.
2. Toast the Bread:
Put the baking sheet in the oven and toast the bread until it’s golden and crisp, which should take about 8-10 minutes. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning. Once done, remove from the oven and let them cool slightly.
3. Make the Herb Mixture:
While the bread is toasting, prepare a tasty herb mixture by combining the chopped rosemary, parsley, olive oil, balsamic vinegar (if you choose to use it), and a sprinkle of salt and black pepper in a small bowl. Mix it well!
4. Assemble the Antipasto Bites:
Now comes the fun part! On a platter, place a piece of toasted bread as your base. Using a toothpick or skewer, assemble the bites in your favorite order. Start with a cube of mozzarella, then add a slice of salami, a piece of roasted pepper, an olive, and finish with a pepperoncini or pickled pepper.
5. Add Flavor:
Drizzle or lightly brush the herb mixture over each assembled bite. This will enhance the flavors and make them more delicious!
6. Garnish and Serve:
For a lovely presentation, garnish the platter with a few sprigs of fresh rosemary. Serve these tasty antipasto bites immediately at room temperature for the best flavor experience!
Enjoy these colorful, savory antipasto bites as a tasty appetizer that everyone will love!
Can I Use Different Types of Bread for Antipasto Bites?
Absolutely! While a baguette is traditional, feel free to use ciabatta, focaccia, or even whole-grain bread. Just make sure the bread is sturdy enough to hold all the tasty toppings!
How Can I Make Antipasto Bites Vegetarian?
To make these bites vegetarian, simply replace the salami and deli meats with more veggies, like artichoke hearts, zucchini slices, or marinated mushrooms. You can also add different types of cheese for an extra flavor kick!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Antipasto Bites?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best to keep the components separate to avoid sogginess, so you can reassemble them fresh when you’re ready to eat!
Can I Prepare Antipasto Bites in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the components (toast the bread, cut the veggies, and make the herb mixture) ahead of time. Assemble the bites just before serving to ensure the bread stays crisp and the ingredients fresh!
