
Antipasto platter
Description
Antipasto platter - Authentic recipe from Italy. Ready in 15 min. Try it now!
Directions
✓ researched- 1
Have the prosciutto (e.g. Parma ham) sliced thin or buy it pre-sliced. Cut the cheese (Parmesan, Pecorino or Provolone) into pieces or shavings. Cut 2 bell peppers into strips (grilled or marinated if desired). Set out 1 cup of olives.
⏱️ approx. 12 min💡 Tip: The antipasto platter ('before the meal') is the classic Italian starter. A good platter is defined by variety in colors, textures and flavors (salty, savory, creamy, tangy). Quality of ingredients is what counts.
- 2
Arrange all the components decoratively on a large platter or wooden board — the prosciutto fanned out or loosely rolled (so it's easy to pick up), the cheese in chunks, and the bell peppers and olives grouped together. Add sun-dried tomatoes, artichokes and grissini as desired.
⏱️ approx. 10 min💡 Tip: The arrangement is part of the pleasure — group the components, distribute the colors. Fan or roll the ham so it's easy to pick up. A good antipasto platter is a feast for the eyes.
- 3
Garnish with fresh basil and drizzle with a little olive oil. Serve with bread (ciabatta, grissini). Serve at room temperature — that's when the ham and cheese develop their full aroma (take out of the fridge 30 minutes beforehand).
⏱️ approx. 5 min💡 Tip: Serve at room temperature — cold dulls the flavors. An antipasto platter is perfect for sharing, for guests and as an aperitivo. Better to have a little more — leftovers taste great the next day too.
📜 Origin & History
The antipasto plate originated in Italy and is a fixed part of Italian food culture. The term 'Antipasto' literally means 'before eating' and refers to an appetizer that often consists of a variety of ingredients such as sausage, cheese, olives, and vegetables. This tradition goes back to Roman antiquity, when small appetizers were served before the main course to stimulate the appetite.
🌿 Regional variants
Vegetarian Antipasto Platter
Only with cheese, grilled vegetables, olives and bean spread — no cured meats.
Antipasto Misto del Mare
With seafood (marinated anchovies, squid salad, shrimp) — a maritime twist.
🍷 What goes with it?
As a starter or aperitivo to share. With ciabatta and grissini. With a glass of Prosecco, Aperol Spritz or Italian red wine.
Frequently Asked Questions
What belongs on a classic antipasto platter?
Cured meats (prosciutto, salami, mortadella), cheese (Parmesan, Pecorino, Provolone), pickled vegetables (artichokes, sun-dried tomatoes, pepperoncini), olives and bread/grissini. Variety is the key.
Which ham and cheese?
Ham: Prosciutto di Parma, Prosciutto San Daniele, Coppa, Bresaola. Cheese: Parmigiano, Pecorino, Provolone, Mozzarella, Gorgonzola. A mix of different varieties is ideal.
How much per person?
As a starter, about 100–150 g per person; as an aperitivo main course, 250–300 g. More variety = smaller quantities per component. Serve at room temperature for full flavor.
Reviews
No reviews yetLogin to rate
LoginAll Reviews
Ingredients
verified- Prosciutto1
- Cheese1 pcs
- Paprika2 pcs
- Olives1 cup
- Basil1





