Description
Antipasto Bites
Ingredients
24 slices of salami (thinly sliced)
1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
12 small mozzarella balls (halved)
1/2 cup marinated artichoke hearts (chopped)
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp balsamic glaze
2 tbsp fresh basil (chopped)
Salt and pepper (to taste)
Directions
Make salami cups: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place salami slices into mini muffin tin cups, pressing them to form a cup shape. Bake for 8-10 minutes until crispy. Remove and let cool.
Mix the filling: In a bowl, combine cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, chopped artichoke hearts, olive oil, balsamic glaze, basil, salt, and pepper. Toss gently to combine.
Assemble: Spoon the antipasto mixture into the cooled salami cups.
Serve: Garnish with additional basil and serve immediately for a flavorful, bite-sized appetizer!
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 12 (2 bites per serving)
Calories: 150 kcal per serving
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Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect Antipasto Bites every time. First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 24-cup mini muffin tin. Carefully place one salami slice into each cup, pressing down gently so the edges ruffle and form a cup shape. Bake for 8-10 minutes until the salami is firm and slightly crispy. Remove the tin from the oven and let the cups cool completely in the pan—they will crisp up further as they cool. While the cups cool, prepare the filling. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the halved cherry tomatoes, halved mozzarella balls, and chopped artichoke hearts. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic glaze, then add the chopped basil, salt, and pepper. Toss the mixture gently until everything is evenly coated. Once the salami cups are at room temperature, carefully remove them from the tin. Use a small spoon to fill each cup generously with the antipasto mixture.
Serving Suggestions
These bites are incredibly versatile. For an elegant party platter, arrange them on a large serving tray lined with fresh arugula or kale leaves. Add a small bowl of extra balsamic glaze for drizzling. They pair wonderfully with other Italian appetizers like bruschetta or stuffed mushrooms. For a complete drink pairing, serve with a light Pinot Grigio, a crisp Prosecco, or a non-alcoholic sparkling lemonade. To make them a heartier snack, consider adding a small dollop of pesto or a sliver of roasted red pepper to the top of each bite just before serving.
How-to Summary
In summary, create crispy salami cups by baking slices in a mini muffin tin. Prepare a fresh, tangy filling of tomatoes, mozzarella, and artichokes tossed in a basil vinaigrette. Once the cups are cool, assemble by spooning the mixture into them. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the salami cups ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake the salami cups 1-2 days in advance. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They may soften slightly but will still be delicious.
What can I use instead of marinated artichoke hearts?
You can substitute with well-drained jarred roasted red peppers, chopped kalamata olives, or even marinated mushrooms for a different flavor profile.
How do I prevent the salami cups from becoming too greasy?
Choosing a high-quality, drier salami helps. You can also briefly blot the baked cups with a paper towel after they cool to remove excess grease.
Are these bites served warm or cold?
They are best served at room temperature. This ensures the salami cup remains crisp and the fresh filling isn’t wilted by heat.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely. For a vegetarian version, use thin slices of halloumi cheese or large pepperoni-sized slices of zucchini, brushed with oil and baked until pliable, to form the cups.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using thick-cut salami: It won’t crisp properly and may be too chewy. Always opt for thinly sliced.
- Filling the cups while they’re warm: This causes the filling to wilt and the cups to potentially become soggy. Patience is key.
- Over-mixing the filling: Be gentle to keep the mozzarella balls and tomato halves intact.
- Skipping the balsamic glaze: This ingredient adds essential sweetness and acidity that balances the salty, rich salami.
Conclusion
These Antipasto Bites are the ultimate crowd-pleasing appetizer, masterfully combining the salty crunch of baked salami with a bright, fresh Mediterranean filling. They are deceptively simple to make yet deliver impressive flavor and visual appeal. Perfect for any gathering, from casual game days to sophisticated holiday parties, this recipe is a guaranteed hit that will have your guests asking for the recipe. Enjoy the process of creating these delightful, bite-sized tastes of Italy.