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Antipasto for Brunch: A Creative Addition to Your Morning Spread

Carey Schaal
Written By Carey Schaal
Original Publish Date: Nov 30, 2024, 03:27 PM
Last updated: Dec 17, 2024, 07:50 PM
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When you think of antipasto, your mind probably goes to an elegant dinner appetizer spread—savory meats, cheeses, and marinated vegetables served alongside wine. But what if we told you antipasto makes an excellent addition to your brunch table? By mixing sweet, savory, and fresh elements, you can create an Italian-inspired brunch centerpiece that feels indulgent yet balanced. Here’s how to incorporate antipasto into your morning spread for a creative and unforgettable meal.

Why Antipasto Works for Brunch

Antipasto is all about variety—cured meats, cheeses, marinated vegetables, olives, nuts, and fruit all coexist beautifully on one platter. This versatility allows you to customize the flavors for a morning spread, offering both light bites and rich indulgences. With a mix of textures and tastes, antipasto provides something for every palate, from savory eaters to those with a sweet tooth.

Building a Brunch-Friendly Antipasto Platter

The key to a successful brunch antipasto is balancing classic Italian elements with brunch staples. Here’s a breakdown of components to include:

cured meats

Cured Meats

Start with classic Italian meats, but keep the selection light and approachable:

  • Prosciutto: Delicate and salty, prosciutto pairs beautifully with fruit like melon or figs.
  • Salami: Mild varieties like soppressata work well for a morning spread.
  • Speck: A smoky cured meat that adds depth without being too heavy.

 

cheese

Cheeses

Add creamy and mild cheeses to balance the saltiness of the meats:

  • Burrata or Fresh Mozzarella: Creamy, soft, and perfect when paired with fresh tomatoes or fruit.
  • Ricotta: Spreadable and slightly sweet, ricotta works as a morning-friendly cheese option. Serve it with honey or jam.
  • Parmesan or Asiago: Add small, aged cheese wedges for a nutty, salty flavor.

 

fruit

Fruits for a Sweet Touch

Fresh fruits bring brightness and balance to the rich meats and cheeses. Include:

  • Fresh figs, melon slices, or grapes.
  • Slices of pears or apples for a crisp bite.
  • Dried fruits like apricots or dates for natural sweetness.

 

olives

Marinated Vegetables and Olives

Antipasto’s signature marinated elements add a savory, tangy kick:

  • Roasted red peppers
  • Artichoke hearts
  • Marinated cherry tomatoes
  • Kalamata or Castelvetrano olives

For a brunch twist, add pickled veggies like asparagus or green beans for a fresh flavor.

 

crostini

Breads and Crackers

No antipasto is complete without a vehicle for all the delicious toppings:

  • Ciabatta or focaccia: Lightly toasted with olive oil for crunch.
  • Grissini (breadsticks): A classic, crunchy Italian accompaniment.
  • Bagels or crostini: A brunch-friendly addition that’s perfect for spreading ricotta or topping with meats.

 

deviled eggs

Extras for a Unique Brunch Vibe

To make your brunch antipasto stand out, include:

  • Soft-boiled eggs or deviled eggs for a protein-packed addition.
  • Small bowls of honey, fig jam, or balsamic glaze for drizzling.
  • Nuts like almonds or pistachios for a salty crunch.




Brunch Antipasto Ideas and Pairings

Once you’ve built your antipasto platter, use it as the centerpiece for a larger brunch spread. Here are a few ideas to inspire you:

  • Antipasto Crostini Bar: Set out toasted bread slices, ricotta, prosciutto, marinated veggies, and fresh fruit so guests can build their own crostini.
  • Savory Breakfast Panzanella: Combine cubed focaccia, roasted tomatoes, burrata, and arugula with a drizzle of olive oil and balsamic glaze for a brunch salad.
  • Eggs and Antipasto Plate: Pair soft-boiled eggs with prosciutto, marinated artichokes, and Parmesan shavings for a light and balanced plate.
  • Sweet and Savory Skewers: Alternate fresh melon, mozzarella, prosciutto, and grapes on skewers for a fun, portable brunch snack.
  • Ricotta Toast Station: Offer toasted bread with toppings like ricotta, honey, figs, or roasted tomatoes for a customizable brunch option.

Tips for Serving Brunch Antipasto

  1. Keep It Fresh: Assemble the antipasto just before serving to maintain freshness.
  2. Room Temperature is Best: Let meats and cheeses come to room temperature for optimal flavor.
  3. Balance the Spread: Offer both sweet and savory options so guests can enjoy variety.

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Carey Schaal
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