The enticing aroma of baked pastry fills my kitchen as I prepare for another family gathering. Among the whirlwind of meal planning, I’ve discovered a transformative recipe that takes minimal effort but delivers maximum wow factor—Antipasto Roll-Ups. These delightful little parcels are crafted from flaky, buttery puff pastry and packed with a medley of flavors that transport you straight to an Italian trattoria.
Each roll-up reveals a treasure trove of savory salami, zesty pepperoni, and creamy Provolone paired with a punchy Kalamata olive spread. Perfect for entertaining or satisfying those snack cravings, these bites are an effortless way to impress your guests without the fuss of an elaborate charcuterie board. Whether it’s a cozy night in or a festive celebration, these Antipasto Roll-Ups are sure to become your go-to appetizer, bringing smiles and a taste of Italian cuisine right to your table.
Why Are Antipasto Roll-Ups a Must-Try?
Effortless Preparation: These roll-ups require minimal kitchen skills, making them perfect for anyone.
Bold Flavors: Bursting with salami, cheese, and olives, each bite is a flavor explosion.
Versatile Delight: Ideal for parties, game days, or a cozy family dinner, they’re a crowd-pleaser in any setting.
Quick to Bake: Just pop them in the oven while you mingle—no need for lengthy prep!
Impressive Presentation: Their golden-brown appearance and sophisticated taste will have guests asking for the recipe.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep these in advance for hassle-free entertaining, so you can enjoy more time with loved ones!
Antipasto Roll-Ups Ingredients
For the Filling
• Puff Pastry – Forms the crispy outer layer; use thawed, store-bought pastry for convenience.
• Thinly Sliced Provolone – Provides creamy texture and mild flavor; substitute with mozzarella if desired.
• Thinly Sliced Salami and Pepperoni – Adds savory and spicy notes; choose varieties based on preferred spice level.
• Roasted Red Peppers – Gives a sweet and tangy contrast; fresh bell peppers can be roasted as a substitute.
• Kalamata Olives – Offers briny depth; can be substituted with green olives for a milder taste.
• Pepperoncini – Adds a tangy bite; replace with pickled jalapeños for heat if desired.
• Grated Pecorino Romano – Enhances the flavor with salty, tangy notes; Parmesan can also work well.
For the Spread
• Extra-Virgin Olive Oil – Used for the spread and brushing; can substitute with melted butter for richness.
• Garlic – Adds aromatic depth; fresh garlic is recommended for the best flavor.
• Kosher Salt – Balances flavors; adjust according to taste preferences.
With these simple yet flavorful ingredients, your Antipasto Roll-Ups will be a delightful hit at any gathering!
How to Make Antipasto Roll-Ups
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Prepare the Spread: In a mixing bowl, combine finely chopped Kalamata olives, pepperoncini, grated garlic, kosher salt, and 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil until mixed well. This zesty blend will be the heart of your roll-ups!
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Roll Out the Puff Pastry: Lightly flour your countertop and carefully roll out the thawed puff pastry sheet to about ¼ inch thickness. Ensuring the pastry is evenly rolled will create a nice, even bake.
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Layer Ingredients: Spread the olive mixture evenly over the pastry. Then, layer thin slices of Provolone, salami, pepperoni, and roasted red peppers, sprinkling grated Pecorino Romano on top for that extra cheesy goodness.
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Roll and Cut: Tightly roll the pastry from one end to the other, creating a long log. Slice it into pinwheels about an inch thick, arranging them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
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Bake: Drizzle the remaining olive oil over the pinwheels and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F for about 25-30 minutes, or until they are golden brown and flaky. The aroma will draw everyone to the kitchen!
Optional: Serve with a side of marinara sauce for dipping.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Antipasto Roll-Ups are perfect for busy home cooks who want to save time and still impress their guests! You can prepare the entire roll-up mixture and refrigerate it up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow the initial steps up until rolling and slicing; then cover the tray with plastic wrap and pop it in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, bake them straight from the fridge, just adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time to ensure they’re heated through. This way, you’ll maintain that delightful flakiness of the puff pastry while enjoying a stress-free cook-ahead approach, allowing you to focus on your guests!
Antipasto Roll-Ups Variations
Feel free to personalize your Antipasto Roll-Ups with these delicious tweaks and substitutions!
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Meatless: Swap out all meats for roasted veggies like zucchini and eggplant for a colorful, vegetarian twist.
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Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for some added heat that will awaken your taste buds.
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Smoky Flavor: Incorporate smoked provolone or gouda cheese to bring a rich, smoky layer to your roll-ups.
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Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh herbs like basil or parsley into the olive spread for a peppery freshness that elevates the flavors.
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Nutty Crunch: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pine nuts into the filling for added texture that will surprise your guests with each bite.
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Mediterranean Flair: Replace Kalamata olives with sun-dried tomatoes and feta cheese for a delightful Mediterranean-inspired filling.
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Sweet Twist: Layer in some thinly sliced figs or a drizzle of honey to balance the savory flavors with a hint of sweetness.
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Cheese Blend: Experiment with a mix of cheeses like fresh mozzarella, cheddar, or goat cheese for a unique, creamy composition.
Each variation opens a realm of flavor possibilities, ensuring your Antipasto Roll-Ups remain delightful and exciting at every gathering!
What to Serve with Antipasto Roll-Ups?
Bring your gathering to life with the perfect array of sides that elevate your delectable antipasto roll-ups to a full-on feast.
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Fresh Garden Salad: A crisp salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, and a zesty lemon vinaigrette cuts through the richness, offering a refreshing balance.
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Herbed Garlic Bread: The buttery, garlic-infused goodness pairs beautifully with the savory flavors of the roll-ups. It’s perfect for sopping up any extra olive spread!
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Bruschetta: Topped with diced tomatoes, basil, and drizzle of balsamic, this classic appetizer brings a fresh, vibrant flavor that complements the rich flavors of the roll-ups.
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Marinara Sauce: Serve a small bowl of warm marinara alongside for dipping. Its tangy sweetness enhances the savory notes of the roll-ups, creating a delightful contrast.
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Pesto Pasta Salad: A light pasta salad tossed with fresh basil pesto adds a delightful herbaceous touch that pairs well with your antipasto creation.
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Sliced Antipasto Platter: A small charcuterie board with extra salami, cheeses, olives, and roasted vegetables allows guests to customize their bites, further enhancing the appetizer experience.
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Sparkling Water with Lemon: This crisp, refreshing drink cleanses the palate and encourages conversation—perfect for an entertaining evening!
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Tiramisu: For dessert, the creamy, coffee-flavored Italian classic rounds out the meal beautifully, echoing the meal’s Italian theme while satisfying those sweet cravings.
How to Store and Freeze Antipasto Roll-Ups
- Room Temperature: Enjoy these delicious Antipasto Roll-Ups right after baking for the best flavor and texture. If needed, store at room temperature for up to 2 hours.
- Fridge: Store baked roll-ups in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to regain crispiness, about 10-12 minutes at 350°F.
- Freezer: Freeze unbaked roll-ups in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
- Reheating: For leftover roll-ups, reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10-12 minutes or until warmed through, ensuring a delightful crunch on the outside.
Expert Tips for Antipasto Roll-Ups
- Thaw Properly: Ensure the puff pastry is fully thawed before rolling out. This prevents tearing and gives a nice flaky texture.
- Spacing is Key: When placing roll-ups on the baking sheet, leave space between them. This allows for even baking and crispiness on all sides.
- Add a Shine: Brush the tops of the roll-ups with olive oil before baking for a golden finish and extra flavor.
- Watch the Time: Keep an eye on the oven as baking times may vary; remove them when they are beautifully golden brown.
- Experiment with Fillings: Feel free to mix and match ingredients based on your preferences while keeping the core flavors of the Antipasto Roll-Ups intact!
Antipasto Roll-Ups Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right ripeness of ingredients?
Absolutely! When selecting olives, they should be firm and free of dark spots. For peppers, look for ones that are vibrant in color and have smooth skin. The salami and pepperoni should be fresh, with no discoloration. Choosing slightly under-ripe produce can add a refreshing crunch!
What is the best way to store leftover Antipasto Roll-Ups?
Very! After baking, store the roll-ups in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For optimal flavor and texture, reheat them in the oven at 350°F for about 10-12 minutes to regain their crispy exterior.
Can I freeze Antipasto Roll-Ups? If so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze unbaked roll-ups, lay them on a baking sheet in a single layer until firm, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container. They can be stored for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, bake them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
What if my puff pastry tears while rolling?
Don’t worry; it happens! If you notice tearing, simply patch it with a small piece of pastry dough and gently press it together. Make sure your pastry is well-thawed, as this will help avoid tearing. Additionally, ensure your work surface is lightly floured to prevent sticking.
Are Antipasto Roll-Ups suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
Yes, indeed! If you’re accommodating allergies, you can easily swap out ingredients. Use dairy-free cheese alternatives for lactose intolerance or replace cured meats with vegetarian options like marinated artichokes and mushrooms. Always check labels for potential allergens in store-bought components.
How long can I prepare the roll-ups in advance?
Very! You can assemble the Antipasto Roll-Ups a day before your event. Simply keep them uncooked in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake them. This ensures incredible freshness while saving you time on the day of your gathering. Just pop them in the oven when your guests arrive!
Savory Antipasto Roll-Ups That Will Wow Your Guests
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a mixing bowl, combine finely chopped Kalamata olives, pepperoncini, grated garlic, kosher salt, and olive oil until mixed well.
- Lightly flour your countertop and carefully roll out the thawed puff pastry sheet to about ¼ inch thickness.
- Spread the olive mixture evenly over the pastry. Layer thin slices of Provolone, salami, pepperoni, and roasted red peppers, then sprinkle grated Pecorino Romano on top.
- Tightly roll the pastry from one end to the other, creating a long log. Slice it into pinwheels about an inch thick.
- Drizzle the remaining olive oil over the pinwheels and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F for about 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and flaky.