Lovebirds’ Antipasto Platter

Name: Lovebirds’ Antipasto Platter
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4-6 servings
Ingredients: 100g prosciutto, thinly sliced; 100g salami, thinly sliced; 150g assorted cheeses (e.g., mozzarella, cheddar, goat cheese); 1 cup mixed olives (green and black); 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/2 cucumber, sliced; 1 bell pepper, sliced; 1/2 cup roasted red peppers, drained; 1/2 cup hummus or dip of choice; Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Highlighted under: World Cuisine Creations

I adore putting together the Lovebirds’ Antipasto Platter because it allows me to showcase a variety of flavors and textures on a single board. This delightful assortment is not only visually stunning but also perfect for sharing with loved ones. With a mix of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and fresh veggies, every bite offers a different taste sensation. I love how it invites conversation and laughter, making it ideal for gatherings or a romantic night in. This platter is so versatile that you can tailor it to suit any occasion or season.

Created by

Olivia

Last updated on 2026-01-13T12:51:31.478Z

Creating the Lovebirds’ Antipasto Platter has been a delightful journey of exploration. I love experimenting with different combinations of ingredients, from artfully arranging slices of prosciutto to including a range of colorful veggies and dips. One of my favorite tips is to incorporate seasonal produce, which not only enhances the freshness but also adds vibrant colors to the platter.

What I find most rewarding is watching guests gather around the platter, chatting and enjoying the varied bites. When arranging the platter, I keep in mind the balance of flavors and textures, ensuring there’s a little something for everyone. It’s all about creating an experience that’s as delightful to eat as it is to behold!

        Why You Will Love This Platter
        A visually stunning array of fresh and cured ingredients
Perfect for any occasion, from date night to family gatherings
Easy to customize based on personal preferences

      

Crafting the Perfect Balance

The beauty of the Lovebirds’ Antipasto Platter lies in its harmonious blend of flavors and textures from various ingredients. Choosing high-quality cured meats like prosciutto and salami is crucial as they provide a salty, savory contrast to the creaminess of the cheeses. Aim for a balance in your selection; if you include a sharp cheddar, consider pairing it with a milder cheese, such as fresh mozzarella, to create a delightful tasting experience with every bite.

When selecting olives, don’t shy away from mixing varietals. A combination of briny green olives and rich, meaty black olives guarantees a burst of flavor that elevates your platter. Consider marinating your olives in olive oil, herbs, or garlic for added depth, inviting your guests to savor the complexity of each ingredient. This versatility allows for endless personalization.

Veggie Variations and Creative Dips

Adding fresh vegetables not only enhances the visual appeal but also contributes to the overall freshness of the platter. You can substitute any of the recommended veggies with seasonal alternatives, such as radishes in spring or roasted squash in the fall. These colorful additions will entice guests while keeping them engaged with different tastes and textures while nibbling on the meats and cheeses.

For the dips, hummus is a fantastic choice, but you can definitely experiment with various flavors such as roasted red pepper or garlic-infused hummus. If you want a cheese spread, consider a soft goat cheese mixed with herbs or a creamy tzatziki sauce. These dips add a different dimension to your platter, inviting guests to explore more flavor profiles as they enjoy the array of ingredients you’ve curated.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create your Lovebirds’ Antipasto Platter:

Antipasto Ingredients

100g prosciutto, thinly sliced
100g salami, thinly sliced
150g assorted cheeses (e.g., mozzarella, cheddar, goat cheese)
1 cup mixed olives (green and black)
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 cucumber, sliced
1 bell pepper, sliced
1/2 cup roasted red peppers, drained
1/2 cup hummus or dip of choice
Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Feel free to substitute any ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to assemble your platter:

Prepare Ingredients

Wash and slice all the vegetables and arrange them on a large serving board or plate.

Arrange the Meats

Drape the slices of prosciutto and salami around the board, creating a beautiful display.

Add Cheeses and Olives

Place the cheeses in the center and scatter the olives around them for contrast.

Fill in with Veggies and Dips

Add the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and roasted red peppers, and tuck bowls of hummus or dips amongst the ingredients.

Garnish

Finish off by adding fresh basil leaves for a vibrant touch.

Serve immediately with toothpicks and enjoy!

Pro Tips

Experiment with different meats and cheeses to match the season or your taste. You can also add fruits like figs or grapes for a sweet touch.

Make-Ahead Tips

One of the wonderful aspects of the Lovebirds’ Antipasto Platter is its make-ahead potential. You can prep the ingredients a few hours ahead of time—slice the vegetables and meats, and arrange everything on the board except for the fresh herbs, which should be added just before serving to retain their color and aroma. Store your prepped items in airtight containers in the refrigerator to keep them fresh.

If you’re planning for a larger gathering, consider doubling or tripling your ingredients. Doing so not only ensures that everyone can indulge but also allows for a wide variety of flavors, satisfying different taste preferences. Just remember to adjust the size of your serving board accordingly or spread the ingredients across multiple boards for an inviting display.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

Any leftover ingredients can be easily stored, although assembled platters should ideally be consumed the same day. Wrap remaining meats and cheeses tightly in plastic wrap or store them in airtight containers to keep them fresh in the refrigerator for up to three days. Fresh vegetables may lose their crunch, so use them within a day for the best texture.

When serving, I like to place the platter at the center of the table, allowing everyone to share and pick their favorites. Pair your antipasto platter with a selection of drinks—think red wine, sparkling water, or a citrusy cocktail—to enhance the experience and complement the flavors of your carefully chosen ingredients.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this platter ahead of time?

Yes! You can prep most ingredients a few hours in advance. Just keep your dips separate until serving.

→ What other ingredients can I include?

You can add items like marinated artichokes, different kinds of bread, or even nuts for extra crunch.

→ Is this platter suitable for vegetarians?

Absolutely! You can skip the meats and focus on a variety of cheeses, olives, and veggies for a delicious vegetarian option.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover items in airtight containers in the fridge, and consume within a couple of days for the best flavors.