Christmas Antipasto Wreath Recipe
The Christmas Antipasto Wreath is a dazzling, edible centerpiece that will instantly make your holiday table feel brighter and more inviting! Brimming with creamy mozzarella balls, colorful cherry tomatoes, tangy olives, and savory bites of cured meat, this wreath is as delightful to look at as it is to eat. The rosemary and basil lend festive green notes and an irresistible aroma, while artichoke hearts and roasted red peppers add lively Mediterranean flair. Not only does it come together in just 20 minutes with zero cooking, but everyone can pluck their favorite nibbles straight from the wreath—no utensils needed. Perfect for parties, this showstopper celebrates the flavors and colors of the season in a truly memorable way.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You’ll be amazed at how a handful of fresh, flavorful ingredients can transform into a holiday masterpiece! Each element of the Christmas Antipasto Wreath is carefully chosen for taste, texture, and a punch of festive color.
- Mini mozzarella balls (bocconcini): Creamy, mild cheese bites that anchor the wreath with their snowy white hue and mellow flavor.
- Cherry tomatoes: Bright and juicy, these add gorgeous pops of red and a refreshing snap with every bite.
- Mixed olives (green and black): Salty and briny, olives deliver deep flavor and a wonderful contrast to the other ingredients.
- Marinated artichoke hearts, halved: Tender and tangy, these bring an unmistakable Mediterranean character to your wreath.
- Roasted red pepper strips: Sweet, smoky, and vibrant—roasted peppers add both color and a hint of softness.
- Salami or pepperoni slices, folded or rolled: A savory, meaty element that makes the wreath extra satisfying and perfect for nibbling.
- Fresh basil leaves: These provide herbal brightness and a fresh aroma with every mouthful.
- Fresh rosemary sprigs (for garnish): Rosemary forms the “wreath base” and infuses the platter with its festive fragrance.
- Wooden skewers or cocktail picks (optional): Handy for keeping groups of ingredients together or making appetizers easy to grab.
How to Make Christmas Antipasto Wreath
Step 1: Create the Rosemary Wreath Base
Begin by arranging your rosemary sprigs in a neat circle on a large round platter or wooden board. This forms the aromatic “wreath” foundation and instantly sets that festive tone. Use 4 or 5 generous sprigs, overlapping the ends slightly so they look lush and full—this is your chance to get creative and make the base look as close to a real wreath as you like!
Step 2: Layer on the Cheeses, Veggies, and Meats
Now for the fun part: build up your wreath by layering mozzarella balls, cherry tomatoes, mixed olives, artichoke hearts, roasted pepper strips, folded salami or pepperoni, and basil leaves right on and around the rosemary circle. Keep the shape nice and round by tucking ingredients close together, alternating colors and shapes for the prettiest look. If you want a super tidy presentation, you can thread ingredients onto small skewers or cocktail picks before arranging them.
Step 3: Fill Gaps and Finish with Fresh Herbs
Once your main ingredients are in place, step back and look for any empty spots. Fill in those spaces with extra basil leaves or more rosemary sprigs to give the wreath a full, lush appearance. This not only helps balance out the flavors, but it makes the Christmas Antipasto Wreath look irresistible and bursting with color.
Step 4: Chill until Serving
Cover the finished wreath gently with plastic wrap and refrigerate until you’re ready to share it with your guests. Chilling ensures everything stays fresh, crisp, and ready to go. Wait until the last moment to add any extra basil or greens, so they look perky and bright.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
When it’s party time, bring out your chilled wreath and set it on the table as a centerpiece. Pair with a basket of crackers or a loaf of crusty bread on the side, and watch as everyone dives in for their favorite festive bites.
How to Serve Christmas Antipasto Wreath
Garnishes
Garnishing your Christmas Antipasto Wreath is the finishing touch that makes it sparkle on the table. Add a few extra sprigs of rosemary or fresh basil for vibrant green accents, or scatter pomegranate seeds for a little jewel-toned sparkle and subtle sweetness. A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a quick grind of pepper will elevate flavor and enhance the wreath’s natural gloss.
Side Dishes
This wreath is a star on its own, but it’s also wonderful with rustic accompaniments. Offer an assortment of crackers, crunchy breadsticks, or thick slices of crusty Italian bread on the side. For a heartier spread, serve it alongside light salads or a warming soup for a complete and welcoming holiday meal.
Creative Ways to Present
There’s no wrong way to display your Christmas Antipasto Wreath! Try assembling mini individual wreaths on small plates for personalized starters, or build one giant showstopper for a crowd. For outdoor gatherings, use disposable wooden boards for easy clean-up. Change up the shape by making a long garland down the center of a table, or tuck in edible flowers for a playful twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftover Christmas Antipasto Wreath (lucky you!), simply transfer the remaining ingredients to an airtight container and refrigerate. Most elements will keep their flavor and texture for up to two days, although the fresh basil may wilt a bit.
Freezing
Freezing isn’t recommended for the Christmas Antipasto Wreath, since some components—like mozzarella balls and fresh basil—can change texture and become watery or limp. For the best taste and appearance, enjoy the wreath fresh within a day or two of assembling.
Reheating
There’s truly no need to reheat this festive appetizer, as the beauty lies in its fresh, cool flavors and crisp veggies. If you want to revive any chilled meats or peppers, let them sit briefly at room temperature before serving for the best texture and flavor.
FAQs
Can I make a vegetarian Christmas Antipasto Wreath?
Absolutely! Just skip the salami or pepperoni and add more vegetables like marinated mushrooms, pickled onions, or cubes of semi-firm cheese for a satisfying and colorful wreath everyone can enjoy.
What are some other ingredient ideas for my wreath?
This recipe is endlessly customizable—try adding prosciutto, sun-dried tomatoes, pickled peppers, feta cubes, or even thin slices of cucumber for fresh crunch. Pick your favorites and mix them in to match your guests’ preferences.
How far ahead can I assemble the wreath?
You can prepare the Christmas Antipasto Wreath up to 4–6 hours before your gathering. Just keep it tightly wrapped in the refrigerator and add tender herbs or final garnishes right before serving to keep them fresh-looking.
Do I need to use skewers or toothpicks?
Skewers and toothpicks are totally optional! They’re helpful for grouping ingredients together and make it easier for guests to serve themselves, but you can also arrange everything in clusters directly on the platter if you prefer a more rustic look.
What’s the best platter to use for this wreath?
A round wooden board or large circular platter works best, but feel free to get creative! Any flat surface that will hold a circle shape—and fit all those beautiful ingredients—will work perfectly for the Christmas Antipasto Wreath.
Final Thoughts
I hope you’ll give this Christmas Antipasto Wreath a special spot at your next festive gathering. It’s quick to assemble, bursting with flavor, and guaranteed to bring both beauty and fun to your holiday table. Give it a try, and let it become part of your own tradition!
Print
Christmas Antipasto Wreath Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Impress your guests with this festive Christmas Antipasto Wreath that’s as delicious as it is visually appealing. Perfect for holiday gatherings, this no-cook appetizer is easy to assemble and customizable to suit your tastes.
Ingredients
Mozzarella Balls:
8 ounces mini mozzarella balls (bocconcini), drained;
Cherry Tomatoes:
1 cup cherry tomatoes;
Mixed Olives:
1 cup mixed olives (green and black);
Artichoke Hearts:
1/2 cup marinated artichoke hearts, halved;
Roasted Red Peppers:
1/2 cup roasted red pepper strips;
Salami or Pepperoni:
1/2 cup salami or pepperoni slices, folded or rolled;
Fresh Basil:
1/4 cup fresh basil leaves;
Rosemary Sprigs:
4–5 fresh rosemary sprigs (for garnish);
Skewers or Cocktail Picks:
wooden skewers or cocktail picks (optional)
Instructions
- Arrange the Wreath Base: Place rosemary sprigs in a circle on a large platter.
- Layer Ingredients: Arrange mozzarella, tomatoes, olives, artichokes, peppers, salami, and basil around the rosemary.
- Final Touches: Add more rosemary or basil for color. Chill until serving. Enjoy with crackers or bread.
Notes
- Customize with pickled onions, prosciutto, or cheese.
- For a vegetarian option, exclude cured meat and add more veggies.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/8 of wreath
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
