Coppa and Marinated Artichoke Skewers offer a taste of the Mediterranean in each bite. Combining savory Italian coppa, tangy marinated artichoke hearts, creamy mozzarella balls, and sweet cherry tomatoes, these skewers bring a balance of flavors that will delight guests. Perfect for parties, picnics, or gatherings, they require no cooking and are easy to assemble. These colorful skewers add an elegant touch to any appetizer spread, blending fresh and cured flavors that satisfy the palate.

In this guide, we’ll go through the steps to make these easy skewers, explore variations to suit different tastes, and offer pairing ideas to create a memorable Mediterranean-inspired appetizer experience.

Why You’ll Love Coppa and Marinated Artichoke Skewers

1. Classic Mediterranean Flavors

The combination of coppa, marinated artichoke hearts, mozzarella, and cherry tomatoes embodies the essence of Mediterranean cuisine. These skewers offer a balance of flavors, from salty and savory to fresh and tangy.

2. Simple, No-Cook Recipe

This appetizer requires no cooking, making it a quick, fuss-free option for parties or gatherings. With only a few steps, you can prepare a sophisticated dish that’s visually appealing and delicious.

3. Portable and Easy to Serve

The skewer format makes these bites easy to serve and enjoy. Guests can easily pick up a skewer and enjoy the blend of flavors in one convenient, bite-sized portion.

4. Customizable and Versatile

These skewers can be customized with different cheeses, meats, or vegetables, allowing you to adapt the recipe based on personal preferences or dietary needs.

Ingredients for Coppa and Marinated Artichoke Skewers

Here’s what you’ll need to make 12 skewers:

  • 12 slices of coppa: This Italian cured pork adds a rich, savory flavor that pairs beautifully with the artichokes.
  • 12 marinated artichoke hearts, drained: These provide a tangy and slightly acidic contrast to the coppa.
  • 12 small mozzarella balls (such as bocconcini or ciliegine): The mozzarella adds a creamy texture that balances the bold flavors of coppa and artichokes.
  • 12 cherry tomatoes: Adds a burst of sweetness and color.
  • Fresh basil leaves (one per skewer, optional): Provides a fresh, herbal flavor that enhances the Mediterranean taste.
  • Olive oil (for drizzling): Adds a touch of richness to the skewers.
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper: To taste, adding a final layer of flavor.
  • 12 small skewers or toothpicks: For easy serving.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Coppa and Marinated Artichoke Skewers

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

  1. Drain and prepare artichokes: If the artichokes are packed in oil, drain them to avoid excess oil on the skewers.
  2. Arrange other ingredients: Lay out the coppa slices, mozzarella balls, cherry tomatoes, and fresh basil leaves for easy assembly.

Step 2: Assemble the Skewers

  1. Layer the ingredients on each skewer: Start by threading a marinated artichoke heart onto the skewer, followed by a folded slice of coppa, a cherry tomato, and a mozzarella ball. Add a basil leaf if desired for added flavor and a burst of green color.
  2. Repeat for each skewer: Continue assembling until all skewers are complete.

Step 3: Drizzle and Season

  1. Add olive oil and seasoning: Place the assembled skewers on a serving platter and drizzle lightly with olive oil. Sprinkle with a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper to enhance the flavors.

Step 4: Serve

  1. Serve immediately: These skewers are best enjoyed fresh, so serve right after assembly for optimal flavor and texture.

Tips for Perfect Coppa and Marinated Artichoke Skewers

1. Use Fresh Ingredients for Best Flavor

High-quality ingredients make a difference in this simple recipe. Choose fresh mozzarella, ripe cherry tomatoes, and quality coppa for the best results.

2. Assemble Just Before Serving

To maintain freshness, it’s best to assemble these skewers right before serving. This keeps the basil leaves bright and the mozzarella soft and creamy.

3. Experiment with Different Cheeses and Meats

If you can’t find coppa, try using prosciutto, salami, or chorizo as alternatives. Other cheeses, like feta or gouda, can also add unique flavors to the skewers.

4. Serve with Additional Dipping Sauces

Consider serving with a side of balsamic glaze or pesto for dipping. These sauces add depth and complement the flavors in the skewers.

Nutritional Information

Per Serving (1 skewer):

  • Calories: 50
  • Fat: 4g
  • Carbohydrates: 1g
  • Protein: 3g
  • Sodium: 120mg

Note: Nutritional values may vary based on specific ingredients used.

Variations of Coppa and Marinated Artichoke Skewers

This recipe can be customized to suit various tastes and dietary needs. Here are some fun variations to try:

1. Make it Vegetarian

For a vegetarian version, omit the coppa and add marinated roasted red peppers or sun-dried tomatoes. This still provides a satisfying bite with a similar Mediterranean flavor.

2. Add a Crunch with Nuts

Place a small roasted almond or walnut on each skewer for added crunch and flavor. The nuts provide a nice contrast to the creamy mozzarella and soft artichoke.

3. Include Additional Vegetables

Add other marinated vegetables like olives, roasted peppers, or grilled zucchini to the skewers for extra variety and flavor.

4. Try a Different Cheese

Swap mozzarella for other soft cheeses like feta, goat cheese, or provolone for a twist on the original recipe. Each cheese brings its own unique flavor to the skewer.

5. Drizzle with Balsamic Glaze for Sweetness

For a touch of sweetness, drizzle the skewers with balsamic glaze before serving. The glaze adds a slight tang that enhances the flavors of the tomatoes and basil.

Pairing Suggestions

These Coppa and Marinated Artichoke Skewers are versatile and pair well with a variety of beverages and flavors:

  • Serve with Wine: A crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, complements the flavors in the skewers. For red wine lovers, try a light-bodied red like Pinot Noir.
  • Include on a Charcuterie Board: Arrange these skewers alongside other charcuterie items like olives, nuts, and crackers for a complete appetizer spread.
  • Pair with Sparkling Water or Lemonade: For a refreshing, non-alcoholic option, sparkling water with a slice of lemon or homemade lemonade pairs well with the Mediterranean flavors.
  • Serve with Breadsticks or Crostini: Place a few breadsticks or crostini on the platter to add a crunchy element that complements the skewers.

Coppa and Marinated Artichoke Skewers are a quick, no-cook appetizer that combines classic Mediterranean flavors in one bite. With savory coppa, tangy marinated artichokes, creamy mozzarella, and sweet cherry tomatoes, these skewers bring a variety of textures and flavors that guests will enjoy. Perfect for parties, gatherings, or casual entertaining, these skewers add a touch of elegance to any appetizer spread.

Give these Coppa and Marinated Artichoke Skewers a try at your next event, and let the simplicity and sophistication of this Mediterranean-inspired appetizer impress your guests!