Antipasto Skewers: a perfect Italian party food

Running down the streets of Rome during their Carnival taught me something.   Italians know 2 things better than anyone:  parties and food.  One of the dishes I tried during that fest was Antipasto.  It is an italian first course or appetizer consisting of an assortment of foods such as olives, anchovies, sliced sausage, peppers, and artichoke hearts.  It is one of my all time favs, and this version makes it party perfect.  Simply gather whatever ingredients you feel inspired to use.  Here is what I used for my skewers:

Arrange the food onto the skewers alternating between colors, and varying size.  Marinate overnight or for four hours in your favorite bottled Italian dressing,  OR my favorite is to blend together pesto, the oil of the sun dried tomatoes, a little liquid from the pepperocini jar, salt, pepper, and balsamic vinegar and pour that over the skewers.

Layer the plate with any kind of lettuce or leaf (I used cauliflower leaves from my garden).  I also like to tie an herb bundle to use on the platter.  Oregano tied with twine adds color and an amazing fragrance.  Lay the skewers on top of the leaves.

Beautiful and loaded with flavor.  Ciao!