The first time I rolled out a sheet of puff pastry, I felt like a culinary magician, ready to transform buttery layers into something delightful. Enter Antipasto Roll-Ups: my version of comfort food that’s both incredibly easy to make and bursting with flavor. With savory salami and creamy provolone wrapped snugly in flaky pastry, each bite is a little explosion of taste that will impress even your pickiest friends.
One afternoon, after a long week filled with mundane takeout, I found myself craving something different—something vibrant and exciting. These roll-ups turned out to be the perfect remedy; a zesty Kalamata olive and pepperoncini spread ties the ingredients together, creating a gourmet appetizer that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply want to elevate a lazy night in, these Antipasto Roll-Ups are sure to bring smiles around the table. Let’s dive into the recipe and elevate your appetizer game!
Why are Antipasto Roll-Ups a must-try?
Flavor Explosion: Each bite bursts with a delightful mix of savory meats, zesty olives, and creamy cheeses, all enveloped in a flaky puff pastry.
Quick and Easy: With minimal prep and just a few ingredients, these roll-ups come together in no time—perfect for both seasoned chefs and beginners.
Versatile Options: Customize your antipasto experience by swapping out ingredients to cater to your taste preferences.
Crowd-Pleasing: Ideal for parties, these roll-ups are sure to impress guests with their gourmet flair and irresistible taste.
Make Ahead: Prep them in advance and store them in the fridge, ready to bake for a hassle-free appetizer!
Antipasto Roll-Ups Ingredients
Get ready to create flavor-packed joy!
For the Spread
• Finely Chopped Pepperoncini – Adds tanginess; substitute with pickled jalapeños for a spicier kick.
• Finely Chopped Pitted Kalamata Olives – Provides richness and a briny flavor; green olives can be used as a substitute.
• Grated Garlic (2 cloves) – Enhances taste with a robust aroma; fresh garlic is preferred, but garlic powder can work in a pinch.
• Kosher Salt (1/2 tsp.) – Balances flavors and enhances overall taste.
• Extra-Virgin Olive Oil (3 Tbsp., divided) – Contributes richness and helps with browning; flavored oils can add depth.
For the Pastry and Filling
• All-Purpose Flour (for surface) – Prevents sticking while rolling out pastry.
• Sheet Frozen Puff Pastry (thawed, 17.3-oz box) – Provides a flaky and buttery layer; homemade puff pastry can substitute for a fresh taste.
• Thin Slices Provolone (8 slices) – Adds creamy texture and flavor; mozzarella or gouda can be alternate cheeses.
• Thin Slices Salami (8 slices) – Offers a spicy, savory profile; other cured meats like prosciutto can be used instead.
• Thin Slices Pepperoni (8 slices) – Introduces a mildly spicy flavor; any thinly sliced deli meat works well.
• Strips Roasted Peppers (8 strips) – Adds sweetness and color; fresh bell pepper strips can replace roasted ones.
• Grated Pecorino Romano (1/4 cup) – Boosts flavor with a nutty note; parmesan cheese is a suitable substitute.
Dive into these Antipasto Roll-Ups and watch them disappear from the plate!
How to Make Antipasto Roll-Ups
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Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). This step is crucial for achieving that perfect golden-brown crust.
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Mix together finely chopped pepperoncini, Kalamata olives, grated garlic, kosher salt, and 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a mixing bowl. This zesty spread will enhance the flavor of your roll-ups beautifully.
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Roll out the thawed puff pastry on a floured surface to prevent sticking. Cut it into rectangles for easy rolling.
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Layer each rectangle with slices of Provolone, salami, pepperoni, and roasted peppers, then sprinkle with Pecorino Romano. Feel free to adjust the layers to suit your taste!
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Roll each rectangle tightly, sealing the edges by pinching them together. This ensures the delicious filling stays inside during baking.
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Brush the tops with the remaining olive oil for a beautiful finish and extra flavor. This little detail makes a big difference!
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Bake on a baking sheet for 15-20 minutes, until they are golden brown and puffed. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
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Cool slightly before serving to get the perfect bite and allow the flavors to settle.
Optional: Serve with warm marinara or aioli on the side for dipping.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Antipasto Roll-Ups Variations
Feel free to put your own spin on these delicious roll-ups; creativity in the kitchen leads to delightful discoveries!
- Cheese Swap: Replace Provolone with cheddar or gouda for a different flavor twist. Each cheese offers its unique character!
- Deli Meat Options: Use turkey or ham instead of salami for a lighter, but equally satisfying option. The flavors meld beautifully!
- Veggie Delight: Add sautéed spinach or mushrooms to create a veggie version. These earthy additions enhance the richness.
- Add Heat: Incorporate jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick. A touch of heat elevates the overall dish!
- Herb-Infused Oil: Use rosemary or garlic-infused olive oil in the spread for an aromatic upgrade. Simple yet impactful!
- Mix of Olives: Blend Kalamata and green olives for an interesting flavor combination. The contrast adds depth and complexity.
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Chop sun-dried tomatoes into the spread for a sweet-tart element that pairs nicely with savory meats. It is an unexpected delight!
- Creative Toppings: Top the roll-ups with sesame seeds or poppy seeds before baking for added texture and visual appeal. They’re sure to impress!
Make Ahead Options
These Antipasto Roll-Ups are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the filling (the zesty spread) up to 24 hours in advance, storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Additionally, you can roll up the pastry and filling and keep the assembled roll-ups in the fridge for up to 24 hours as well. Just be sure to cover them tightly to prevent the pastry from drying out. When you’re ready to bake, simply brush with olive oil and pop them into a preheated oven as directed. This way, you’ll have restaurant-quality appetizers ready to go with minimal effort, making your busy weeknights smoother and stress-free!
What to Serve with Antipasto Roll-Ups?
Create the perfect spread with scrumptious accompaniments that enhance the flavor of each bite.
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Marinara Sauce: Serve warm for a classic dipping experience, adding a rich tomato flavor that pairs beautifully with the savory roll-ups.
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Crispy Green Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the hearty flavors of the roll-ups.
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Garlic Bread: Crunchy, buttery garlic bread complements the Italian flavors, providing a satisfying crunch that’s perfect for sopping up any extra sauce.
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Bruschetta: Topped with diced tomatoes and basil, this fresh appetizer brings a bright, herbaceous quality to your table that balances the richness of the roll-ups.
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Italian Wine: A light Pinot Grigio or a fruity Chianti enhances the flavor profile, creating a delightful pairing for gatherings or a cozy night in.
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Savory Cheese Platter: An assortment of cheeses, such as aged cheddar, goat cheese, and asiago, creates an exciting and flavorful experience that complements the roll-ups.
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Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies, like zucchini or bell peppers, offer an earthy flavor that rounds out your appetizer spread beautifully.
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Antipasto Platter: Continue the theme with marinated olives, artichokes, and cured meats for a bountiful and colorful presentation that echoes the roll-up flavors.
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Chocolate Fondue: For something sweet, a chocolate fondue served with fruits or marshmallows creates a fun and interactive dessert experience to end your meal on a high note.
Expert Tips for Antipasto Roll-Ups
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Chill the Ingredients: Using cold ingredients helps maintain the puff pastry’s flakiness during baking, which is key to delightful Antipasto Roll-Ups.
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Mind the Filling: Avoid overfilling each roll-up to prevent them from bursting while baking. Less is more to keep things neat and delicious!
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Preheat Your Oven: Ensure your oven is fully preheated at 400°F (200°C) for evenly cooked and beautifully golden roll-ups.
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DIY Puff Pastry: If you have the time, homemade puff pastry can elevate the flavor, giving your antipasto roll-ups a fresh, gourmet touch.
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Experiment with Spices: Don’t hesitate to sprinkle in some Italian herbs or red pepper flakes to customize your spread and enhance the flavor profile of your antipasto roll-ups.
How to Store and Freeze Antipasto Roll-Ups
Fridge: Keep the baked Antipasto Roll-Ups in an airtight container for up to 3 days. They can also be stored unbaked for 24 hours before you pop them into the oven!
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the unbaked roll-ups in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They should last up to 2 months.
Reheating: To reheat baked roll-ups, place them on a baking sheet and warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (180°C) for about 10-12 minutes to regain crispiness.
Make Ahead: Preparing these Antipasto Roll-Ups in advance makes entertaining a breeze; just bake them fresh when you’re ready to impress your guests!
Antipasto Roll-Ups Recipe FAQs
What should I look for when choosing pepperoncini?
When selecting pepperoncini, look for firm peppers with a vibrant green or yellow color. Avoid any that have dark spots or appear shriveled. If you prefer more spice, you could opt for pickled jalapeños as a great alternative, which adds a zesty kick!
How should I store leftover Antipasto Roll-Ups?
Store baked Antipasto Roll-Ups in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you’re storing them before baking, they can last for up to 24 hours in the refrigerator. Just ensure they are properly covered to keep them fresh!
Can I freeze Antipasto Roll-Ups, and what’s the process?
Absolutely! To freeze unbaked Antipasto Roll-Ups, lay them out on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can last up to 2 months. When you’re ready to bake, just pop them right from the freezer into the preheated oven—no need to thaw!
What should I do if the puff pastry is sticky?
If you find the puff pastry is sticky while rolling, sprinkle a bit more flour on your work surface and the pastry itself. This will help prevent it from sticking and ease the rolling process. Additionally, make sure to handle the dough as little as possible to keep it flaky.
Are there any dietary considerations when making these roll-ups?
Yes! If you’re cooking for someone with dairy allergies, consider using a dairy-free cheese alternative for the filling. You can also substitute the meats with plant-based options. Always check individual ingredient labels to ensure no allergens are present!
Can I make any ingredient substitutions for the spread?
Certainly! If you prefer a milder spread, you can reduce the amount of pepperoncini or use different olives like green olives, which provide a less briny flavor. Feel free to experiment with adding fresh herbs like basil or parsley for an herby twist in the spread!
Delicious Antipasto Roll-Ups for the Ultimate Party Snack
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). This step is crucial for achieving that perfect golden-brown crust.
- Mix together finely chopped pepperoncini, Kalamata olives, grated garlic, kosher salt, and 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a mixing bowl.
- Roll out the thawed puff pastry on a floured surface to prevent sticking. Cut it into rectangles for easy rolling.
- Layer each rectangle with slices of Provolone, salami, pepperoni, and roasted peppers, then sprinkle with Pecorino Romano.
- Roll each rectangle tightly, sealing the edges by pinching them together.
- Brush the tops with the remaining olive oil for a beautiful finish and extra flavor.
- Bake on a baking sheet for 15-20 minutes, until they are golden brown and puffed.
- Cool slightly before serving to get the perfect bite and allow the flavors to settle.