Antipasto Tortellini Skewers with Lemon Basil Vinaigrette (Easy Party Appetizer)

If you’re searching for a unique, flavorful appetizer that combines Mediterranean-inspired ingredients with the fun and convenience of skewers, look no further than Antipasto Tortellini Skewers with Lemon Basil Vinaigrette. This vibrant dish features a delightful combination of cheese tortellini, marinated artichoke hearts, mozzarella balls, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and roasted red peppers, all perfectly balanced with a tangy Lemon Basil Vinaigrette. It’s the ideal dish for impressing your guests at parties, serving as a crowd-pleasing snack, or simply enjoying with family.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and versatility. You can serve it at your next gathering, barbecue, or as an easy meal starter, and it can be customized to suit your tastes and dietary preferences. The freshness of the vegetables, the tang of the vinaigrette, and the satisfying bite of cheese tortellini make it a dish that stands out at any table.

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What Are Antipasto Tortellini Skewers?

Antipasto is an Italian appetizer that traditionally includes a variety of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and marinated vegetables. When paired with cheese tortellini, a popular Italian pasta stuffed with creamy cheese, and skewered for easy serving, the classic antipasto is given a fresh and fun twist. The addition of Lemon Basil Vinaigrette further enhances the dish with its zesty, herbaceous flavor that complements the variety of textures and flavors of the ingredients.

These skewers are perfect for both formal and casual events. They’re easy to make, requiring no fancy tools or preparation, but they still offer an elegant and flavorful presentation. The lemon basil vinaigrette ties all the ingredients together, making each bite refreshing and satisfying.

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Ingredients for Antipasto Tortellini Skewers with Lemon Basil Vinaigrette

To create these delectable Antipasto Tortellini Skewers, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Skewers:

• 1 (9 oz) package cheese tortellini – The base of the skewers, providing that creamy, cheesy bite that pairs wonderfully with the other ingredients.
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes – Fresh and juicy, these will add a burst of color and sweetness to each skewer.
• 1 cup marinated artichoke hearts – These tender, tangy pieces add an earthy flavor that perfectly balances the rest of the ingredients.
• 1 cup mozzarella balls – Soft, creamy mozzarella brings a mild, slightly tangy contrast to the other more robust flavors.
• 1 cup sliced black olives – Providing a salty, briny element that adds depth to the flavor profile of the skewers.
• 1 cup sliced cucumber – Adds a crisp, refreshing crunch, balancing the richness of the other ingredients.
• 1/2 cup roasted red peppers, cut into strips – Sweet, smoky, and tender, roasted red peppers lend a subtle heat and sweetness.
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves – A burst of herbal freshness, basil complements the tangy vinaigrette and enhances the flavors of the skewers.
• Wooden skewers – Used to skewer and serve the ingredients.

For the Lemon Basil Vinaigrette:

• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil – A high-quality olive oil forms the base of the vinaigrette, bringing richness and depth.
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice – Adds brightness and tang to the vinaigrette, perfectly complementing the other ingredients.
• 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar – Provides a mild acidity to balance the richness of the olive oil.
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard – For a slight tang and emulsifying the vinaigrette, ensuring a smooth texture.
• 1 clove garlic, minced – Adds a savory depth to the vinaigrette that pairs well with the fresh basil.
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil – The fresh basil adds herbal freshness, aligning perfectly with the Mediterranean flavors of the skewers.
• Salt and black pepper to taste – Enhances the flavor of the vinaigrette and balances the acidity and richness.

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How to Make Antipasto Tortellini Skewers with Lemon Basil Vinaigrette

Creating Antipasto Tortellini Skewers with Lemon Basil Vinaigrette is incredibly simple and quick. Follow these steps to assemble the skewers and prepare the vinaigrette:

Step 1: Cook the Tortellini

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once the water is boiling, add the cheese tortellini and cook according to the package instructions. Typically, this takes about 8-10 minutes, or until the tortellini floats to the top, indicating that it’s cooked.

Once the tortellini is cooked, drain it and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and keep it from becoming mushy. Set the cooked tortellini aside to cool while you prepare the rest of the ingredients.

Step 2: Prepare the Lemon Basil Vinaigrette

In a small bowl, whisk together the following ingredients to create the vinaigrette:

• Extra virgin olive oil
• Lemon juice
• Red wine vinegar
• Dijon mustard
• Minced garlic
• Chopped fresh basil

Whisk these ingredients until well combined and smooth. Taste the vinaigrette and adjust the salt and black pepper to your preference. If you prefer a tangier vinaigrette, add more lemon juice or vinegar.

Step 3: Assemble the Skewers

Now it’s time to assemble the skewers. Start by taking a wooden skewer and threading the ingredients onto it. Arrange the ingredients in a pleasing order, alternating between:

• Cooked tortellini
• Cherry tomatoes
• Artichoke hearts
• Mozzarella balls
• Black olives
• Cucumber slices
• Roasted red pepper strips
• Fresh basil leaves

Repeat until all the ingredients are used up. You can adjust the order or quantity of ingredients based on your personal preferences. The colorful array of ingredients on the skewers not only makes for a visually appealing dish but also provides a variety of textures and flavors that complement each other perfectly.

Step 4: Drizzle with Lemon Basil Vinaigrette

Once all the skewers are assembled, arrange them neatly on a serving platter. Just before serving, drizzle the Lemon Basil Vinaigrette over the skewers. The vinaigrette adds a tangy, herbaceous element that enhances the flavors of the mozzarella, tortellini, and marinated vegetables, making each bite even more delicious.

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Why You’ll Love Antipasto Tortellini Skewers with Lemon Basil Vinaigrette

There are several reasons why these Antipasto Tortellini Skewers with Lemon Basil Vinaigrette will quickly become one of your favorite recipes. Let’s take a look at what makes this dish so special:

1. Fresh and Flavorful Ingredients: Each component of this dish is packed with fresh, vibrant ingredients, from the sweet cherry tomatoes to the tangy artichokes and creamy mozzarella. The Lemon Basil Vinaigrette ties everything together with its bright, zesty flavor, enhancing the natural tastes of the vegetables and cheese.
2. Customizable: You can easily customize these skewers to suit your tastes or dietary needs. Want to swap the cheese tortellini for another pasta? You can! Prefer a different type of cheese or vegetables? Feel free to mix and match to your heart’s content.
3. Simple to Prepare: Despite looking like a fancy, gourmet dish, these Antipasto Tortellini Skewers are surprisingly easy to prepare. With just a few basic steps—cooking the tortellini, preparing the vinaigrette, and assembling the skewers—you’ll have a delicious and impressive appetizer in no time.
4. Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re hosting a casual family dinner, attending a barbecue, or looking for a party appetizer, these skewers are the perfect choice. They’re easy to serve, fun to eat, and guaranteed to be a hit with guests of all ages.

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FAQs About Antipasto Tortellini Skewers with Lemon Basil Vinaigrette

1. Can I use other types of pasta for the skewers?

Yes, you can substitute the cheese tortellini with other types of pasta, such as penne, fusilli, or farfalle. Just be sure to cook the pasta until al dente to ensure it holds up well on the skewers.

2. Can I make the Lemon Basil Vinaigrette ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can make the Lemon Basil Vinaigrette up to a day in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Just give it a good stir or shake before drizzling it over the skewers.

3. Can I prepare the skewers ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the skewers a few hours ahead of time. Just be sure to keep them covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve them. Drizzle the vinaigrette on top just before serving to keep the skewers fresh and vibrant.

4. Are these skewers vegetarian?

Yes, Antipasto Tortellini Skewers with Lemon Basil Vinaigrette are vegetarian, as they contain no meat. They’re perfect for vegetarians or anyone looking for

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5. What can I serve with these skewers?

These skewers pair well with a variety of dishes, including grilled meats, salads, breadsticks, or soups. They’re also perfect as part of a charcuterie board or appetizer spread.

6. Can I use store-bought vinaigrette instead of making my own?

While homemade Lemon Basil Vinaigrette offers the freshest taste and best control over the ingredients, you can use a high-quality store-bought vinaigrette in a pinch. Look for one with lemon and basil flavors for the best match.

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Conclusion: A Crowd-Pleasing Skewer Recipe You’ll Make Again and Again

There’s no denying the charm and flavor-packed goodness of Antipasto Tortellini Skewers with Lemon Basil Vinaigrette. Whether you’re entertaining guests or just looking for a fresh twist on a classic antipasto platter, these skewers check all the boxes. They’re colorful, vibrant, and bursting with flavor thanks to the cheese tortellini, fresh veggies, and zesty lemon basil vinaigrette.

What makes this recipe shine is its flexibility—it can be served as a light lunch, a party appetizer, or even a fun addition to your picnic or potluck. And with the ability to easily customize the ingredients, it’s a recipe you can reinvent every time you make it. So grab your skewers, round up your ingredients, and enjoy a dish that’s as fun to make as it is to eat!

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