Follow these steps for perfect results
romaine lettuce
washed and trimmed
iceberg lettuce
shredded
scallions
trimmed
carrots
pared and sliced into ribbons
water
ice cold
grape tomatoes
provolone cheese
thin
hot capicola ham
genoa salami
thin
tuna
drained
pepperoncini peppers
prosciutto
thin
provolone cheese
sharp
cherry peppers
pickled
olives
pimento stuffed
pickled mushrooms
halved
black olives
pitted
cream cheese
room temperature
celery
cut into two-bite pieces
burpless cucumbers
channeled and sliced
artichoke hearts
marinated and quartered
anchovies
salted
Prepare all produce by washing and trimming.
Cut half the scallions lengthwise, leaving the centers uncut, and place in ice water to fringe.
Slice carrots into thin ribbons, roll into coils, and secure with toothpicks. Add to ice water.
Wrap each piece of sharp provolone cheese with a slice of prosciutto.
Seed cherry peppers and stuff with the wrapped cheese, then return to pickle brine.
Line a large platter with romaine lettuce leaves.
Spread shredded iceberg lettuce on the platter to support the tonno cups.
Create tonno cups by layering capicola, salami, and provolone slices into a pleated cone shape.
Secure the tonno cups with a frilled toothpick.
Place one tablespoon of tuna into each tonno cup.
Arrange the tonno cups around the edge of the platter, supported by the iceberg lettuce.
If using anchovies, create a space in the center of the platter for a ramekin to hold them.
Arrange the stuffed cherry peppers around the platter.
Stuff black olives with cream cheese and add them, along with the green olives, to the platter.
Stuff half of the celery with the remaining cream cheese and arrange them on the platter.
Score the cucumbers with a fork or zester and arrange them on the platter.
Scatter the artichoke hearts and mushrooms around the platter.
Add anchovies to the ramekin, if using.
Dry the scallions and unfurl the carrots.
Decorate the platter with the scallions, carrots, tomatoes, and remaining ingredients.
Serve with Italian bread, red wine vinegar, extra virgin olive oil, and parmesan shavings.
Expert advice for the best results
Chill the platter for 15-20 minutes before serving to enhance the flavors.
Prepare the stuffed cherry peppers and wrapped cheese a day in advance.
Use high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.
Don't be afraid to customize the platter with your favorite ingredients.
Everything you need to know before you start
20 minutes
Some components can be prepared a day ahead.
Arrange ingredients artfully on a large platter, creating visual appeal with colors and textures.
Serve with crusty Italian bread, olive oil, and balsamic vinegar.
Offer a selection of Italian wines.
Provide small plates and forks for easy serving.
Pairs well with the salty and savory flavors.
A light white wine that complements the antipasto.
Discover the story behind this recipe
Antipasto is a traditional Italian starter course, meant to stimulate the appetite.
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