Recipe: The Simple Antipasto Plate

I always love antipasto. Maybe I have some Italian ancestors. Here is a wonderful list of suggestions that you can easily find in your pantry.

THE SIMPLE ANTIPASTO PLATE

When preparing a simple antipasto plate, narrow it down to two or three items, and incorporate fresh seasonal fruits and vegetables whenever possible.

These simple ideas require little or no cooking. Combine a few for a simple plate:

Jarred marinated artichoke hearts served with water crackers and Camembert cheese

Sliced Roma tomatoes marinated in Italian dressing with sliced havarti cheese and garlic-stuffed green olives

Thinly sliced Genoa salami and Cacio de Roma cheese served with a rustic bread

Shaved proscuitto (Italian ham) with melon balls and roasted nuts

Jarred roasted red and yellow peppers, garlic hummus and pita bread

Baba Ganouj eggplant spread served with flatbed crackers and prepared stuffed dolmas

Deli-prepared pasta salad and green beans served with baby carrots or cherry tomatoes

Toasted focaccia bread with sardines and sweet onions

Olives, capers, sweet pickles and natural pepperoni or smoked peppered turkey breast

Slices of hard boiled eggs served with anchovies and grape tomatoes

Lightly steamed button mushrooms marinated in balsamic vinegar and extra virgin olive oil, served with thinly sliced Black Forest ham and sharp cheddar cheese

Roasted beets and garlic served with a sliced French baguette and Saint Andre cheese

Roasted almonds, walnuts and pine nuts served with dried and fresh figs in season

Homemade garlic bread served with tomato relish and cold shrimp

Grilled deli vegetables with marinated fresh mozzarella

Source: Whole Foods Market