Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Charcuterie skewers are the perfect appetizer to serve when you want a no-fuss, yet impressive dish. They offer all the classic flavors of a charcuterie board in a more convenient, portable form. The skewers can be easily customized to suit different tastes and dietary preferences, making them a versatile option for any gathering. Whether you prefer mild cheese, spicy meats, or sweet fruit, these skewers are the perfect balance of flavors that will impress your guests and keep them coming back for more.

Ingredients

12 slices of salami or pepperoni
12 slices of prosciutto
12 cubes of cheddar cheese or Brie
12 cubes of gouda or Swiss cheese
12 cherry tomatoes
12 olives (green or black)
1/2 cup grapes or other fresh fruit (like figs or strawberries)
1/4 cup nuts (almonds or walnuts)
Fresh basil or rosemary sprigs (for garnish, optional)
Wooden or metal skewers

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the skewers: Begin by gathering all of your ingredients. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 10 minutes to prevent burning. Lay out your cheese, meats, fruits, and nuts in separate sections for easy assembly.
Assemble the skewers: On each skewer, thread the ingredients in a pattern that looks appealing to you. A good suggestion is alternating between the meats, cheeses, olives, tomatoes, and fruits. You can also add a sprig of fresh basil or rosemary at the top for a pop of color and added flavor.
Serve: Once the skewers are assembled, arrange them on a platter. You can drizzle with a little olive oil, balsamic glaze, or honey for extra flavor, or serve as is.
Optional: For a fun touch, serve the skewers with small bowls of dipping sauces like mustard, honey, or a tangy vinaigrette.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes about 12 skewers. The preparation time is approximately 15-20 minutes, depending on how quickly you can assemble the ingredients.

Variations

Vegetarian: Skip the meats and add extra veggies like cucumbers, bell peppers, or roasted red peppers. You can also add more fruits such as apples, pears, or dried fruits like apricots and figs.
Spicy: Add spicy ingredients such as pickled jalapeños, hot pepper cheese, or spicy sausage to bring some heat to your skewers.
Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, but be sure to check the ingredients of any pre-packaged items (like nuts or olives) to ensure they haven’t been processed with gluten.
Cheese Variations: Try different types of cheese like goat cheese, feta, or blue cheese for a more varied flavor profile.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftover skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. These skewers are best served chilled or at room temperature. They don’t require reheating, so you can serve them straight from the fridge.

FAQs

Can I make charcuterie skewers ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the skewers a few hours in advance. Just cover them tightly with plastic wrap or store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.

Can I use other types of meat?

Absolutely! You can swap out salami, prosciutto, or pepperoni for other deli meats like ham, turkey, or even chicken. The key is to pick meats that are easy to slice and skewer.

Are these skewers gluten-free?

Yes, the ingredients in this recipe are naturally gluten-free, making these skewers a great choice for gluten-sensitive guests. Just check any pre-packaged items (such as nuts or olives) to ensure they’re gluten-free.

How do I keep the skewers from falling apart?

To keep the ingredients on the skewers securely, try to alternate between firmer items like cheese and meats with softer items like fruit. Make sure the skewers are not overloaded, as this can cause them to collapse.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, feel free to get creative with your cheese selection. You can use any cheese that holds up well on a skewer, such as goat cheese, brie, or even blue cheese for a stronger flavor.

Can I add more fruits?

Yes! You can add other fruits such as berries, melon, or even citrus slices like orange or grapefruit for a refreshing twist on your skewers.

How many skewers should I prepare for a party?

For a party, plan for 2-3 skewers per person, depending on the size of your other appetizers. For a larger crowd, it’s always best to have extra skewers available.

Can I use toothpicks instead of skewers?

Yes, toothpicks work just as well for this recipe, especially if you’re serving smaller portions or for a more finger-food style appetizer.

Can I add herbs or spices to the skewers?

Yes, you can sprinkle the skewers with herbs like oregano, thyme, or rosemary for extra flavor. You can also season with a bit of cracked black pepper or a drizzle of olive oil for added richness.

Can I serve these skewers with a dipping sauce?

Yes, adding a dipping sauce can enhance the flavors. Mustard, honey, balsamic glaze, or a tangy vinaigrette are all great options for dipping.

Conclusion

Charcuterie skewers appetizers are a fun and delicious way to enjoy all the flavors of a charcuterie board without the fuss. These skewers are versatile, customizable, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party, looking for a light snack, or wanting to impress guests with a simple yet elegant dish, these charcuterie skewers are sure to be a crowd favorite. With a combination of savory meats, creamy cheeses, fresh fruits, and crunchy nuts, they offer a satisfying balance of flavors in each bite. Enjoy the convenience, creativity, and tasty results of this fun appetizer!

Charcuterie Skewers Appetizers

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Charcuterie skewers are a bite-sized version of the classic charcuterie board, combining cured meats, cheeses, fruits, and nuts into an easy-to-eat appetizer, perfect for parties and gatherings.

Author: Laura
Prep Time: 15-20 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 15-20 minutes
Yield: 12 skewers
Category: Appetizer
Method: Assembling
Cuisine: Italian
Diet: Gluten Free

Instructions

Prepare the skewers: Begin by gathering all of your ingredients. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 10 minutes to prevent burning. Lay out your cheese, meats, fruits, and nuts in separate sections for easy assembly.

Assemble the skewers: On each skewer, thread the ingredients in a pattern that looks appealing to you. A good suggestion is alternating between the meats, cheeses, olives, tomatoes, and fruits. You can also add a sprig of fresh basil or rosemary at the top for a pop of color and added flavor.
Serve: Once the skewers are assembled, arrange them on a platter. You can drizzle with a little olive oil, balsamic glaze, or honey for extra flavor, or serve as is.
Optional: For a fun touch, serve the skewers with small bowls of dipping sauces like mustard, honey, or a tangy vinaigrette.

Notes

Vegetarian: Skip the meats and add extra veggies like cucumbers, bell peppers, or roasted red peppers. You can also add more fruits such as apples, pears, or dried fruits like apricots and figs.
Spicy: Add spicy ingredients such as pickled jalapeños, hot pepper cheese, or spicy sausage to bring some heat to your skewers.
Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, but be sure to check the ingredients of any pre-packaged items (like nuts or olives) to ensure they haven’t been processed with gluten.
Cheese Variations: Try different types of cheese like goat cheese, feta, or blue cheese for a more varied flavor profile.
Storage: Store any leftover skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. These skewers are best served chilled or at room temperature.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 skewer
Calories: 150
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 500mg
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Unsaturated Fat: 5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 5g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 8g
Cholesterol: 20mg