Antipasto Bites are tasty little snacks that pack a punch of flavor! They usually include a mix of salami, cheese, olives, and veggies, all ready to enjoy in one bite.
These bites are perfect for parties or a fun night in. I love how easy they are to put together—just skewer your favorite ingredients and you’re good to go! Who can resist something that looks this good?
Ingredients & Substitutions
Baguette: For the base, a small baguette is great for its crunch. You can use any rustic Italian bread or even gluten-free bread if needed. Just ensure it can hold toppings without getting soggy.
Olive oil: Extra virgin olive oil is perfect for brushing on the bread, enhancing the flavor. If you’re out of it, use any cooking oil you have on hand.
Cherry tomatoes: Mixed colors add a pop of visual appeal! If you can’t find them, any ripe plum or grape tomatoes will do. You can also roast larger tomatoes cut into chunks.
Mixed olives: A variety of olives works well! Substituting with just one type is fine too. If avoiding olives, try pickled vegetables for a similar tang.
Cheese: Fresh mozzarella or halloumi brings a lovely texture. If you want a vegan option, consider using a dairy-free cheese alternative or marinated tofu.
Salami and prosciutto: I love using cured meats for that rich flavor. If you prefer vegetarian options, try roasted red peppers or marinated artichokes instead.
Pesto or chimichurri: Both add freshness. You can also use store-bought versions or make a simple herb mix with olive oil, garlic, and lemon juice if you’re out of pesto.
How Do You Get the Perfect Toast on Bread?
Getting the bread just right is key to delicious antipasto bites. Proper toasting adds a crispy base that holds up under toppings. Here’s how to do it:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place bread slices on a baking sheet and brush both sides with olive oil for even crispiness.
- Toast in the oven for 5-7 minutes, watching carefully until golden, turning halfway through for even browning.
- Remove and let cool slightly before adding toppings—this helps prevent sogginess!
Following these steps will ensure your bread supports all the delicious toppings without falling apart!
How to Make Antipasto Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Base:
- 1 small baguette or rustic Italian bread, sliced into 1-inch pieces
- Olive oil, for brushing
For the Toppings:
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes (mixed colors)
- 1 cup mixed olives (black and green)
- 6 oz fresh mozzarella or halloumi cheese, sliced into small squares
- 6 oz salami, sliced
- 6 oz prosciutto, sliced
- 1/4 cup pesto sauce or basil chimichurri
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
- Roasted red peppers (optional)
- 2 tsp balsamic glaze (optional)
- Toothpicks or small skewers
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep and 10 minutes to cook. So, you’re looking at roughly 25 minutes from start to finish before you can enjoy these delicious bites!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Bread:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Take your sliced baguette or Italian bread and arrange the pieces on a baking sheet. Lightly brush each slice with olive oil to enhance the flavor and help it crisp up.
2. Toast the Bread:
Pop the baking sheet in the oven and toast the bread for about 5-7 minutes, or until it’s golden and crisp. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning! Once done, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly.
3. Cook the Cheese:
If you’re using halloumi or mozzarella, grill or pan-fry the cheese squares for 2-3 minutes until they get those beautiful grill marks and soften a bit. Set them aside once done.
4. Roast the Tomatoes:
Next, you’ll want to roast the cherry tomatoes, either in the oven or a skillet with a drizzle of olive oil. Cook them until they’re slightly blistered and softened, which should take about 5 minutes. This will intensify their flavor!
5. Assemble the Bites:
Now comes the fun part—assembling! On each toasted piece of bread, layer your toppings, such as:
- Grilled cheese, roasted tomatoes, a spoonful of pesto, and an olive.
- Salami, folded or rolled, topped with a tomato and a drizzle of pesto.
- Prosciutto shaped or folded, with olives or basil leaves on top.
- Cheese topped with a basil leaf and a cherry tomato half.
6. Secure and Serve:
Use a toothpick or small skewer to secure each assembled bite. If you want an extra touch of flavor, drizzle with balsamic glaze just before serving. Arrange everything nicely on a platter.
7. Final Touch:
Garnish your antipasto bites with fresh basil leaves for that colorful look and fresh aroma!
That’s it! Enjoy these vibrant and flavorful antipasto bites as a delightful appetizer or snack at your next gathering or while relaxing at home!
Can I Use Different Types of Bread for Antipasto Bites?
Absolutely! While a baguette or rustic Italian bread works great, feel free to use any sturdy bread you have on hand, like ciabatta or sourdough. Just make sure it’s thick enough to hold the toppings without getting soggy.
Can I Make Antipasto Bites Vegetarian?
Yes! You can easily customize this recipe to be vegetarian. Simply omit the salami and prosciutto, and add more veggies like artichokes, marinated mushrooms, or even grilled zucchini for added flavor and texture.
How Should I Store Leftover Antipasto Bites?
To store leftovers, keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. However, it’s best to eat them fresh, as the toppings can make the bread soggy over time. If storing, add the fresh toppings just before serving.
Can I Prepare the Ingredients in Advance?
Yes, you can prep components ahead of time! Slice the bread, cheese, and veggies, and store them separately in the fridge. Just assemble them right before serving for the best taste and texture.
