Antipasto is a traditional first course of an Italian meal. This varied Antipasto Platter does not disappoint!
This Antipasto Platter is filled with a variety of filling and tasty meats and cheeses. It is easy to assemble and really looks amazing! It is a eye catching feast for the eyes and the belly. For more perfect appetizer spreads try Sausage Stuffed Mushrooms, Easy Antipasto Kebobs, and Fresh Bruschetta.
What is Antipasto?
Antipasto is an Italian appetizer typically consisting of olives, anchovies, cheeses, and meats. Literally, the word “antipasto” is derived from the Latin root “anti” meaning “before” and “pastus,” which means “meal.” Thus, the antipasto course simply refers to the dish that precedes all others.
Antipasto can be served in salad form, as a bite sized appetizer, or as a tray or kind of cheese board. The ingredients included can vary, but does typically stick to the meats, cheeses and olives.
It is a great spread to nibble on and is quite satisfying. Your guests will love to graze on all of this tastiness!! Best part is it can be made ahead, and literally takes minutes to assemble.
How to Make an Antipasto Platter
It’s really so easy! Just gather your ingredients and get started…
ARRANGE. To assemble the platter, arrange serving bowls on the platter for the messy/oily ingredients.
FILL. Arrange the cured meats and cheese, then fill in the spaces with vegetables, bread, and garnish.
SERVE & STORE. Serve immediately, or cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate until ready to serve.
Variations
Any type of cured meats, cheeses, and bread slices you like will work just fine!
- If you want more spice try going for more peppers, pepper jack cheese, and a hot salami.
- If you want a sweeter board try using sweet peppers, honey roasted ham, and Swiss cheese.
- For more veggies on your board and more textures, add cherry or grape tomatoes, pickled pearl onions, olive tapenade.
- For some crunch, consider adding some vegan protein with almonds, cashews and/or pecans.
And, as always, be sure to add any other favorite ingredients!
Serving and Storing
When SERVING, keep this at room temperature for a max of 2 hours. You don’t want to leave anything at room temperature for longer because you risk stuff spoiling. If there are
Prior to serving, keep the meats, cheeses, and vegetables STORED in the fridge in airtight containers. Keep the bread in an airtight bag/container at room temperature. After serving, if there are any leftovers, you may want to discard anything that’s been left at room temperature for too long, or dried out.
For more fresh appetizers:
Antipasto Platter Recipe
Ingredients
- Cured meats - pepperoni, salami, prosciutto, etc.
- Cheeses - fresh mozzarella, parmesan, manchego, sharp cheddar, provolone, etc.
- Pickled vegetables - artichoke hearts, mushrooms, olives, roasted red peppers, etc.
- Bread - crostini, crackers, breadsticks, etc.
- Fresh parsley and/or basil - for garnish
Instructions
- To assemble the platter, arrange serving bowls on the platter for the messy/oily ingredients. Arrange the cured meats and cheese, then fill in the spaces with vegetables, bread, and garnish. Serve immediately, or cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate until ready to serve.
Looks like something my family would love. Can’t wait to try this with them.
LOVE! So simple to put together, great for parties or even just for snacking on during a movie.
I will take antipasto over anything at a party! Love this so much!