Antipasto Squares

Introduction

Antipasto squares are one of those appetizers that just get the party started! With all the bold, savory flavors of a traditional antipasto platter—salami, olives, roasted red peppers, and lots of cheese—packed into a tender, flaky dough, these bite-sized squares are the perfect crowd-pleaser. The first time I made them, they disappeared so quickly, I had to make another batch! They’re a great option whether you’re hosting a party, prepping for a casual get-together, or just craving something savory.

What I love most about these antipasto squares is how easy they are to put together. You get all the complex, delicious flavors without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, you can get creative with your fillings—add some artichoke hearts, or swap the salami for pepperoni if that’s your thing. The dough bakes up perfectly golden and crispy, and the inside is a melty, flavorful delight. These squares are always a hit, no matter who’s around!

So, if you’re looking for a fun, savory snack that’s guaranteed to impress, these antipasto squares are your answer. They’re easy to make, fun to eat, and guaranteed to be a favorite with friends and family. Let’s dive into how to make them!

Why You’ll Love These Antipasto Squares

• Full of Flavor: Packed with Italian deli meats, cheeses, and tangy olives, these squares burst with delicious, savory flavors.
• Perfect for Parties: These bite-sized squares are ideal for serving at parties, picnics, or any gathering. No need for utensils—just pick them up and enjoy!
• Make Ahead: You can make them ahead of time and reheat them before serving, making your prep time easier.
• Versatile: You can customize the filling to suit your tastes—add your favorite meats, cheeses, and vegetables to make it your own.

Preparation Time and Cook Time

• Total Time: 1 hour
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30-40 minutes
• Servings: About 12-16 squares
• Calories per square: Approximately 150-180 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 7g, Carbohydrates: 15g, Fat: 10g

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 2 cans (8 oz each) refrigerated crescent roll dough (or 1 sheet of puff pastry if you prefer)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

the Filling:

• 1/2 cup cooked ham, chopped
• 1/2 cup salami, chopped
• 1/2 cup pepperoni, chopped
• 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1/2 cup provolone cheese, shredded
• 1/4 cup roasted red peppers, chopped
• 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, sliced
• 1/4 cup artichoke hearts, chopped (optional)
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
• Fresh basil, for garnish (optional)

For the Egg Wash:

• 1 egg, beaten (for brushing on the dough)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough

• Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil.
• Roll Out Dough: Unroll the crescent roll dough (or puff pastry) and press it into the bottom of the prepared baking dish, pinching the seams together to form a solid layer. If using puff pastry, you may need to roll it out slightly to fit the dish.

2. Make the Filling

• Mix the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the chopped ham, salami, pepperoni, mozzarella, provolone, roasted red peppers, olives, artichoke hearts, and red pepper flakes. Stir until all the ingredients are evenly mixed.
• Spread the Filling: Evenly distribute the filling over the dough in the baking dish, pressing it down slightly to ensure it holds together.

3. Top the Filling

• Add a Second Layer of Dough: Unroll the second can of crescent roll dough (or another layer of puff pastry) and place it on top of the filling, pressing down the edges to seal it. If you’re using crescent rolls, just pinch the seams together to form a smooth top layer.
• Brush with Egg Wash: Brush the top of the dough with the beaten egg for a golden, shiny finish.

4. Bake the Antipasto Squares

• Bake: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is heated through.
• Cool Slightly: Once baked, allow the antipasto squares to cool for a few minutes before cutting them into squares. This will help them set and be easier to serve.

5. Garnish and Serve

• Garnish: Garnish with fresh basil or a sprinkle of parmesan cheese, if desired.
• Serve: Serve the antipasto squares warm or at room temperature. They’re great on their own or served with a side of marinara sauce for dipping.

How to Serve

These antipasto squares are perfect for any occasion:

1. Party Appetizer: Serve them as a finger food at your next party or holiday gathering. They’re perfect for snacking.
2. Game Day Treat: These squares are sure to be a hit at your next sports game viewing party.
3. Picnics: Pack them up for a picnic—just be sure to bring along a small container of marinara sauce for dipping.
4. Lunch or Dinner: Pair with a light salad or a bowl of soup for a casual lunch or dinner.

Additional Tips

To make your antipasto squares even more delicious, try these tips:

1. Customize the Meats: Feel free to swap out or add other Italian deli meats like capicola, pancetta, or prosciutto.
2. Cheese Variations: You can use different cheeses like fontina, gouda, or even goat cheese for a unique twist.
3. Make Them Spicy: Add more red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot honey after baking for an extra kick.
4. Add Veggies: Add more roasted vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach for a veggie-packed version.

Recipe Variations

Feel free to get creative with these antipasto squares. Here are some variations to try:

1. Vegetarian Antipasto Squares: Skip the meats and load up on vegetables like roasted red peppers, olives, artichoke hearts, mushrooms, and spinach for a meatless version.
2. Spicy Antipasto Squares: Add some spicy sausage, jalapeños, or a dash of hot sauce to the filling for a spicy kick.
3. Mini Antipasto Squares: Use mini muffin tins to make bite-sized versions of these squares—perfect for parties or appetizers.

Freezing and Storage

You can store and freeze these antipasto squares to enjoy later:

• Storage: Store leftover squares in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the baked antipasto squares for up to 2 months. To reheat, just pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until warmed through.

Special Equipment

For this recipe, you’ll need:

• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Parchment paper or cooking spray (for greasing the baking dish)
• Rolling pin (if using puff pastry)
• Baking brush (for the egg wash)

FAQ Section

If you have any questions about making these delicious antipasto squares, you’re in the right place! Here’s a helpful FAQ section to guide you through any doubts or concerns.

• Can I make these squares ahead of time?
  • Yes, you can prepare them a day or two in advance. Simply assemble the squares, store them in the fridge, and bake them when you’re ready to serve. They also reheat well in the oven.
• Can I use a different dough?
  • Absolutely! If you prefer a flakier texture, puff pastry works great. You can also try pizza dough or a homemade dough if you want a chewier base.
• How can I make these squares less greasy?
  • To reduce the grease, choose leaner meats like turkey or chicken sausage. You can also use part-skim mozzarella and reduce the amount of cheese used in the filling.
• Can I freeze antipasto squares?
  • Yes, these squares freeze wonderfully! After baking, let them cool completely and store them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes.
• How do I know when the squares are done baking?
  • The antipasto squares are done when the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbling through the dough. You can check by gently lifting a corner with a spatula to see if the dough is fully cooked underneath.

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Conclusion

Antipasto squares are the ultimate crowd-pleasing dish, bursting with the flavors of Italy in every bite. The combination of savory meats, creamy cheeses, and aromatic spices makes these squares the perfect appetizer, snack, or even a main dish when you’re looking for something a little different. They’re super versatile, too—you can add your favorite ingredients like olives, roasted peppers, or fresh herbs to customize them to your taste.

What I love most about these antipasto squares is how simple they are to make yet how impressive they look once they’re served. They’re great for parties, family gatherings, or even a cozy night in. The best part is they’re easy to prepare ahead of time, so you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your meal with loved ones.

Grab your ingredients, get baking, and prepare to wow your guests with these delicious squares. Don’t forget to snap a photo and tag me on social media—I love seeing your delicious creations! Enjoy every savory, cheesy bite!