Healthy Antipasto Recipe

BySarah Lynn

Antipasto, the traditional Italian starter, is a colorful and flavorful assortment of cured meats, cheeses, marinated vegetables, olives, and more. It’s perfect for entertaining, offering a variety of tastes and textures that will please any palate. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just looking to enjoy a special appetizer, this antipasto platter is sure to impress.

Ingredients

To create a delightful antipasto platter, you will need:

  • Cured Meats:
    • Prosciutto: 4-6 slices
    • Salami: 8-10 slices
    • Soppressata: 4-6 slices
  • Cheeses:
    • Fresh Mozzarella: 8 ounces, sliced
    • Provolone: 8 ounces, sliced
    • Parmigiano-Reggiano: 4 ounces, shaved or cubed
  • Marinated Vegetables:
    • Artichoke Hearts: 1 cup, marinated
    • Roasted Red Peppers: 1 cup, sliced
    • Marinated Mushrooms: 1 cup
    • Sun-Dried Tomatoes: ½ cup
  • Olives:
    • Mixed Olives: 1 cup (such as Kalamata, Castelvetrano, and green olives)
  • Other Additions:
    • Cherry Tomatoes: 1 cup
    • Pepperoncini: ½ cup
    • Fresh Basil Leaves: For garnish
    • Crusty Bread or Breadsticks: For serving

Step-by-Step Guide

  1. Prepare the Ingredients:
    • Cured Meats: Arrange the prosciutto, salami, and soppressata on the platter. You can fold or roll the slices for a more attractive presentation.
    • Cheeses: Slice the mozzarella and provolone. Shave or cube the Parmigiano-Reggiano. Arrange the cheeses next to the meats.
    • Marinated Vegetables: Drain any excess oil or liquid from the marinated vegetables. Arrange the artichoke hearts, roasted red peppers, marinated mushrooms, and sun-dried tomatoes on the platter.
    • Olives: Place the mixed olives in small bowls or scatter them around the platter.
    • Other Additions: Add the cherry tomatoes and pepperoncini to the platter. Garnish with fresh basil leaves.
  2. Assemble the Platter:
    • Start with the larger items, such as the cheeses and meats, and arrange them on the platter.
    • Fill in the gaps with marinated vegetables and olives.
    • Add the cherry tomatoes, pepperoncini, and fresh basil leaves for color and freshness.
    • Serve with crusty bread or breadsticks on the side.

Storage Tips

  • Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the meats and cheeses separate from the vegetables to prevent them from becoming soggy.

Add-On Suggestions

  • Seafood: Add marinated shrimp, anchovies, or smoked salmon for a seafood twist.
  • Nuts: Include a selection of nuts like almonds, walnuts, or pistachios for added crunch.
  • Fruit: Fresh or dried fruits such as grapes, figs, or apricots can add a sweet contrast.

FAQs

Q: Can I prepare the antipasto platter in advance? A: Yes, you can prepare the platter a few hours in advance. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate until ready to serve.

Q: What are some vegetarian options for an antipasto platter? A: For a vegetarian antipasto, focus on a variety of marinated vegetables, cheeses, olives, nuts, and fruits. You can also include items like hummus or roasted chickpeas.

Q: How can I make a gluten-free antipasto platter? A: To make it gluten-free, ensure all marinated items are gluten-free and serve with gluten-free crackers or breadsticks.

Health Considerations

Antipasto platters can be customized to fit various dietary needs. Use leaner meats and include plenty of vegetables for a healthier option. Enjoying a variety of foods in moderation is key to a balanced diet.

Antipasto is a versatile and impressive appetizer that showcases a variety of flavors and textures. Perfect for entertaining or enjoying a special treat, this antipasto platter is sure to delight your guests and elevate your dining experience. Enjoy crafting and sharing this beautiful and delicious starter!