Easy Appetizers: Antipasto Platter

Antipasto means "before the meal" in Italian. An antipasto platter is one of the easiest appetizers to offer because there is virtually no assembly and it allows all of the diners to pick and choose their own toppings.

Traditional ingredients include cured meats, olives, pepperoncini, artichokes, cheeses, and vegetables, frequently topped by a drizzle of olive oil.

In the photo at the left, I used (clockwise from top left):

• Fresh mozzarella
• Cherry tomatoes
• Store-bought olive salad with olives, artichokes, and pepperoncini
• Prosciutto slices
• Pepperoni (in the center).  

Served with crusty slices of bread or pita chips and a roasted garlic-and-artichoke hummus it makes for a tasty and filling start to a meal.
Other suggestions:

• Roasted red peppers
• Mushrooms
• Anchovies
• Roasted garlic
• Salami
• Pancetta
• Asparagus