Italian-American Antipasto Platter
A vibrant and delicious spread of classic Italian-American cured meats, cheeses, and marinated vegetables. Perfect for entertaining, this no-cook platter is easy to assemble and always a crowd-pleaser.
For 8 servings
6 steps.
- 1
Begin by preparing your components
- a.Take the cheeses out of the refrigerator about 30 minutes before assembling to allow them to come to room temperature, which enhances their flavor. Drain the marinated artichoke hearts, roasted red peppers, and olives. Slice the baguette into rounds.
- 2
Select a large wooden board, slate, or platter
- a.Place small bowls for the olives, artichoke hearts, and fig jam on the board first. These will act as anchors for your design. Spoon the jam into its bowl.
- 3
Arrange the cheeses
- a.Slice the fresh mozzarella and provolone. Use a cheese knife to break the Parmigiano-Reggiano into rustic, bite-sized chunks. Place the cheeses in different areas of the board, leaving space between them.
- 4
Artfully arrange the cured meats
- a.Create visual interest by folding the salami and soppressata into quarters or 'roses'. Loosely drape or roll the prosciutto slices. Tuck the meats into the spaces around the cheeses and bowls, creating flowing 'rivers' of meat.
- 5
Fill in the gaps
- a.Fan out the baguette slices and crackers in the remaining empty spaces on the board. Pile the roasted red peppers directly onto the board near one of the cheeses.
- 6
Add the finishing touches
- a.Tuck fresh basil leaves into various spots for a pop of color and fresh aroma. If desired, drizzle a little extra virgin olive oil over the fresh mozzarella. Serve immediately.
What to keep in mind.
6 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the best flavor, allow cheeses to sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before serving.
- 2Create visual appeal by varying textures and shapes: fold salami, roll prosciutto, and fan out crackers.
- 3Use a board that is large enough to prevent overcrowding. You want each item to be distinct and easy to grab.
- 4For a fuller platter, add complementary items like Marcona almonds, dried apricots, fresh figs, or grapes.
- 5Provide small serving utensils for the jam and marinated items to keep the platter neat.
- 6This platter pairs beautifully with Italian wines like Chianti, Pinot Grigio, or Prosecco.
Adapt it for your goals.
Spicy Kick
Swap the Genoa salami for a spicy soppressata or add a small bowl of Calabrian chili paste for drizzling.
Vegetarian DelightVegetarian Delight
Omit the cured meats and increase the variety of cheeses. Add other marinated items like mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, and grilled zucchini.
Sweet & FruitySweet & Fruity
Incorporate fresh fruits that pair well with cheese, such as sliced pears, fresh figs, or bunches of red and green grapes.
Seafood TwistSeafood Twist
For a coastal Italian feel, add a small bowl of marinated shrimp, some smoked salmon, or a tin of high-quality anchovies.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Protein Powerhouse
The combination of cured meats and various cheeses provides a significant amount of high-quality protein, which is essential for muscle repair, immune function, and overall satiety.
Rich in Healthy Fats
Olives and the optional drizzle of extra virgin olive oil are excellent sources of monounsaturated fats, which are known to support heart health by helping to reduce bad cholesterol levels.
Source of Calcium
Cheeses like Parmigiano-Reggiano and Provolone are packed with calcium, a vital mineral for maintaining strong bones and teeth, as well as proper nerve and muscle function.
Frequently asked questions
A typical serving of this antipasto platter, including a mix of meats, cheeses, vegetables, and a few crackers, contains approximately 450-550 calories. The exact number can vary based on the specific brands and quantities of each item you consume.