Ever have an impromptu happy hour at home? Ever feel like, what on earth do I feed my guests let alone serve as cocktails? It’s ok, I’ve got you covered. Creating a refined and flavorful aperitivo hour with this ridiculously easy antipasti platter plus a few other ideas will leave your guests feeling transported to the Amalfi Coast or a fine dining experience at a fancy Italian restaurant.
Hosting a stylish and memorable aperitivo hour doesn’t have to be complicated. Imagine the breeze of the Amalfi Coast, the clinking of glasses, and the aroma of fresh, vibrant ingredients. Antipasti—the quintessential Italian appetizer—sets the perfect tone for a relaxed yet refined gathering. This easy-to-prepare plate is light, flavorful, and effortlessly elegant, making it ideal for cocktail hour. Whether you’re entertaining at home like me here in Charlotte or anywhere across the globe, my Prosciutto, Fig, Gorgonzola Antipasti Platter will transport your guests to Italy in no time.
Keep it Light and Fresh
When planning your aperitivo hour, opt for light and fresh ingredients that are easy to prepare and full of flavor. Think vibrant vegetables, fresh cheeses, and cured meats. Here are some simple yet refined antipasti ideas:
Caprese Skewers: Cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil leaves drizzled with balsamic glaze.
Prosciutto-Wrapped Melon: Sweet cantaloupe or honeydew slices wrapped in salty, savory prosciutto.
Stuffed Mini Peppers: Sweet mini peppers filled with herbed goat cheese or ricotta.
Marinated Olives and Artichokes: A mix of green and black olives with marinated artichoke hearts for a flavorful bite.
My Prosciutto, Fig, and Gorgonzola Platter came together on a whim (last minute) after scouring through my fridge and pantry for what was on hand. With a “let’s make the best of it!” mindset, I began arranging the ingredients.
Here’s what you’ll need and how you put it together to recreate this dish in your home.
Easy Antipasti
Ingredients
- 4-6 slices Prosciutto
- 4-6 Figs halved
- 1-2 oz Gorgonzola Cheese broken up into lil pieces
- Pistachios a handful; sub for another nut or omit if you or your guests have a nut allergy
- 10 oz Honey for drizzling at the end
- 2 sprigs Thyme fresh; leaves removed will do it!
Instructions
- Start with your favorite platter or large dinner plate. Don’t worry about the plate being huge. You need to focus on using a platter that corresponds to hosting the number mouths you need to feed.
- Next, arrange your sliced figs around the plate, evenly spaced, in a circular fashion.
- Nestle your sliced prosciutto pieces, alternating between each fig.
- Scatter your lil pieces of Gorgonzola cheese around the plate.
- Sprinkle your pistachios and time evenly so that each bite scooped up has a taste.
- Drizzle your honey and serve alongside crispy baguette, flatbread, or pair with endive boats.
This platter is perfect for guests to nibble on while sipping a refreshing cocktail or glass of prosecco. If you need more ideas to delight your guests or if you’re feeling overzealous about creating multiple dishes, read on…
Add a Touch of the Amalfi Coast
To create an antipasti platter that transports your guests to the Amalfi Coast, incorporate flavors and ingredients synonymous with this sun-drenched region. Lemons, capers, anchovies, and seafood are key components of coastal Italian cuisine. Here are some ideas to get you started:
Lemon and Herb Marinated Shrimp: Lightly grilled shrimp marinated in lemon juice, olive oil, and fresh herbs like parsley and oregano.
Anchovy Crostini: Toasted baguette slices topped with a smear of butter, a filet of anchovy, and a sprinkle of lemon zest.
Caprese Salad with Burrata: Upgrade the classic Caprese by swapping mozzarella for creamy burrata and finishing with a drizzle of high-quality olive oil.
Citrus-Marinated Olives: Olives marinated with orange zest, lemon slices, and a dash of red pepper flakes for a hint of heat.
These additions will bring an authentic taste of Italy to your gathering, making your aperitivo hour feel like a mini vacation.
Keep It Easy with Make-Ahead Options
To ensure your cocktail hour is enjoyable for you as well as your guests, choose antipasti that can be prepared in advance. Not only does this minimize stress, but it also allows you to spend more time mingling with your guests.
Roasted Red Pepper Dip: Made ahead and served with crusty bread or crunchy vegetables.
Marinated Bocconcini: Mozzarella balls marinated in olive oil, garlic, and herbs.
Crostini with Ricotta and Honey: Toasted bread topped with ricotta cheese and drizzled with honey.
Whipped Basil Feta Dip: Fresh, colorful vegetables served with a homemade whipped basil feta dip is an absolute show-stopper. No one I’ve served this to has turned it down!
These make-ahead antipasti will keep you free to enjoy the party while still serving a refined and delicious spread.
Elevate the Experience with an Instagram-Worthy Presentation
Presentation can turn a simple appetizer into an elegant experience. Use beautiful platters, wooden boards, or marble trays to display your antipasti. Add fresh herbs, citrus slices, or edible flowers to enhance the visual appeal. Use small bowls for dips and spreads and provide a variety of textures to create an inviting display that encourages guests to graze.
With these easy and flavorful antipasti ideas, you’ll create an aperitivo hour that is light, elegant, and memorable. Whether you’re dreaming of the Amalfi Coast or simply looking to elevate your next cocktail hour, these suggestions offer a refined approach to entertaining with ease.
Cin cin!
