The Antipasto Christmas Wreath is one of those holiday appetizers that looks fancy but takes only minutes to assemble. Think of it as a gorgeous platter of savory bites shaped into a festive wreath. It’s perfect for Christmas Eve Luncheon spreads, Apps For Christmas Eve, or even casual family nights before the big dinner.
If you love Easy Cute Christmas Appetizers, this one will be your new favorite centerpiece.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It looks like it took hours, but it comes together in 15 minutes.
- No cooking required just skewer, arrange, and serve.
- Perfect for Appetizers For Christmas Eve or potlucks.
- It’s flexible: use what you love, from marinated veggies to fancy cheeses.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This wreath is all about color, flavor, and variety. Here’s what you’ll need and why:
- Cherry tomatoes: They add juicy pops of color that make the wreath shine.
- Fresh mozzarella balls: Creamy, mild, and a great contrast to salty meats.
- Marinated artichokes and olives: Bring briny depth and richness.
- Salami or prosciutto: Adds a touch of indulgence and saltiness.
- Fresh basil or rosemary: These herbs make it smell like Christmas morning.
- Skewers: The secret tool for making the wreath shape easily.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep the ingredients
Drain olives, artichokes, and mozzarella balls. Pat everything dry so the wreath holds its shape and stays fresh.
Step 2: Skewer the ingredients
Thread cherry tomatoes, meats, cheese, and veggies onto small skewers or toothpicks. Mix and match for a fun, colorful look.
Step 3: Arrange into a wreath
Place a small bowl of dressing or Xmas dips in the center of a large platter. Circle the skewers around it, layering to look full and festive.
Step 4: Add the greens
Tuck sprigs of rosemary and basil between the skewers. This step transforms it from “snack platter” to true Christmas Eve Hors D’oeuvres elegance.
Step 5: Serve and enjoy
Keep it chilled until serving. Right before guests arrive, drizzle lightly with olive oil or balsamic glaze for shine.
Helpful Tips & Variations
- Add cubes of sharp cheddar or pepper jack for a colorful twist.
- Include roasted red peppers or sundried tomatoes for deeper flavor.
- If making ahead, assemble skewers a few hours early and refrigerate covered.
- Want a vegetarian version? Skip the meats and load up on marinated veggies and cheese.
Serving & Storage
This Appetizer For Christmas pairs beautifully with crisp white wine or sparkling cider. It fits right into any Christmas Hor Dourves spread, sitting proudly beside dips, breads, and seafood dishes like Christmas Salmon. I love placing it next to my Pull-Apart Christmas Tree Bread for a festive touch that wows everyone.
Antipasto Christmas Wreath
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Drain olives, artichokes, and mozzarella balls. Pat dry with paper towels to ensure the wreath holds shape.
- Thread cherry tomatoes, meats, cheeses, and veggies onto small skewers or toothpicks. Mix and match ingredients for variety and color.
- Arrange the skewers in a circular shape on a large platter, forming a wreath. Leave space in the center for a small bowl of dip if desired.
- Tuck fresh rosemary and basil sprigs between the skewers to fill out the wreath and add a festive, aromatic touch.
- Refrigerate until ready to serve. Just before serving, drizzle lightly with olive oil or balsamic glaze if desired.
Notes
- Feel free to customize with different cheeses, cured meats, or marinated vegetables.
- Can be made vegetarian by omitting the meat.
- Assemble skewers ahead and refrigerate, then arrange into a wreath just before serving for freshest presentation.
If you have leftovers, simply store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Refresh with a drizzle of olive oil before serving again. You can also pull apart the skewers and mix them into a quick pasta salad the next day.
FAQs
Can I make this wreath a day ahead?
Yes, you can prepare the skewers the night before and keep them refrigerated. Just wait to assemble the wreath until right before serving to keep the herbs fresh and perky.
What dips go well with this antipasto wreath?
Classic Xmas dips like creamy pesto, hummus, or roasted red pepper aioli pair beautifully. You can also serve it with balsamic glaze for an extra festive touch.
Can I use different meats or cheeses?
Absolutely. Swap prosciutto for pepperoni or add gouda, feta, or provolone. This recipe is very flexible and great for creating your own Christmas Eve Appetizer Ideas.
How do I transport this to a party?
Arrange the skewers on a platter and cover tightly with plastic wrap. Bring the herbs separately and decorate on-site. It will look like you made it right before serving at the Christmas Eve Luncheon.
What are some other Easy Cute Christmas Appetizers to serve?
I love pairing this with Grinch Fruit Sticks for a sweet bite or my Pull-Apart Christmas Tree Bread for a cozy, shareable snack. Both make perfect Apps For Christmas Eve or family gatherings.
Final Thoughts from Ama
This Antipasto Christmas Wreath has become a little holiday ritual in my home. I love setting it on the counter while music plays and the kids sneak bites of cheese when they think I’m not looking. It’s beautiful, simple, and just the kind of recipe that makes the holidays feel special. Remember, food doesn’t have to be fancy to make people smile. This one’s proof that a few colorful bites can feel like a celebration all on their own. Simple food, big heart.