An antipasti platter is a traditional Italian appetizer that beautifully sets the tone for a meal, offering a variety of flavors, textures, and colors. This classic starter features a combination of cured meats, cheeses, marinated vegetables, olives, and breads, providing a little something for everyone. The platter allows you to mix and match to your taste, whether you’re in the mood for savory prosciutto with creamy mozzarella, or want to pair marinated artichokes with crusty bread. It’s the perfect choice for gatherings, casual dinners, or even a hearty snack, with its abundance of ingredients showcasing the best of Italian cuisine.
Ingredients:
- Cured meats: Prosciutto, salami, and capicola (about 4-6 oz each)
- Cheeses: Fresh mozzarella, aged parmesan, and a semi-soft cheese like provolone (about 4-6 oz each)
- Olives: Mixed olives, such as kalamata, green, and Castelvetrano (1 cup)
- Marinated vegetables: Artichoke hearts, roasted red peppers, and marinated mushrooms (1 cup each)
- Bread and crackers: Sliced baguette, grissini breadsticks, and assorted crackers
- Fresh fruits: Sliced melon, grapes, and fig halves
- Extras: Sun-dried tomatoes, stuffed cherry peppers, and fresh basil leaves
- Dips: A small bowl of extra virgin olive oil with balsamic vinegar, and a small bowl of pesto
Instructions:
- Arrange the meats: Start by placing the prosciutto, salami, and capicola on different sections of a large platter. Fold the prosciutto for visual appeal and fan out the salami and capicola.
- Add the cheeses: Place the mozzarella, parmesan, and provolone on the platter. Slice the cheeses into bite-sized pieces for easy serving.
- Organize the olives and marinated vegetables: Put the olives, artichokes, roasted red peppers, and marinated mushrooms into small bowls or pile them neatly onto the platter.
- Arrange the bread and crackers: Set the sliced baguette, grissini, and crackers in open spaces around the platter, creating a natural border.
- Add fresh fruits: Place sliced melons, grapes, and figs around the platter to add color and sweetness.
- Include the extras: Fill in any remaining gaps with sun-dried tomatoes, stuffed cherry peppers, and fresh basil leaves.
- Serve the dips: Place a small bowl of olive oil with balsamic vinegar and a bowl of pesto nearby for dipping.
Serving Tips:
Allow the platter to come to room temperature before serving, as this enhances the flavors of the meats and cheeses. Pair your antipasti with a crisp white wine or a sparkling beverage to complete the experience.
