Antipasto is the perfect way to kick off any meal, bringing together a variety of flavors and textures that tantalize the taste buds. This Squared Antipasto recipe takes the classic Italian appetizer to the next level by layering it into a savory, cheesy, and utterly delicious baked dish. Whether you’re serving it as an appetizer, a party snack, or even a light meal, this Squared Antipasto is sure to impress. Let’s dive into the recipe and see how to create this delightful dish.
Ingredients:
- 2 tubes of crescent roll dough
- ¼ pound salami, sliced thin
- ¼ pound pepperoni, sliced thin
- ¼ pound deli ham, sliced thin
- ¼ pound Provolone slices
- ¼ pound Swiss cheese slices
- 3 tbsp Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
- 1 tbsp basil flavored pesto
- 3 eggs
- 12 ounces roasted red peppers, drained and sliced
Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or a light coat of olive oil.
2. Prepare the Crescent Roll Dough:
- Open one tube of crescent roll dough and unroll it into the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Press the seams together to form a solid layer of dough.
3. Layer the Meats and Cheeses:
- Start by laying down the thin slices of salami evenly over the crescent roll dough.
- Next, layer the pepperoni slices, followed by the deli ham.
- Place the Provolone cheese slices over the meats, ensuring an even layer.
- Add the Swiss cheese slices on top of the Provolone.
4. Add the Pesto and Parmesan:
- Spread the basil flavored pesto evenly over the layer of Swiss cheese.
- Sprinkle the freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the pesto for an extra burst of flavor.
5. Prepare the Egg Mixture:
- In a medium bowl, beat the eggs until well mixed. Reserve a small amount (about 1 tablespoon) of beaten egg to brush on the top layer of dough later.
- Pour the remaining beaten eggs evenly over the layers in the baking dish.
6. Add Roasted Red Peppers:
- Spread the sliced roasted red peppers evenly over the egg layer, ensuring they are distributed throughout the dish.
7. Top with Crescent Roll Dough:
- Open the second tube of crescent roll dough and unroll it carefully over the top of the layered ingredients. Press the seams together to form a solid top layer.
- Brush the reserved beaten egg over the top layer of dough to give it a beautiful golden color when baked.
8. Bake the Squared Antipasto:
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is set.
9. Cool and Serve:
- Allow the Squared Antipasto to cool for about 10 minutes before cutting into squares. This will help it set and make it easier to slice.
- Serve warm or at room temperature. Enjoy!
Tips and Variations:
1. Meat and Cheese Variations:
- Feel free to mix and match your favorite deli meats and cheeses. You can use turkey, roast beef, or even add some spicy capicola for a kick.
2. Add Vegetables:
- For added flavor and nutrition, consider adding some sliced olives, artichoke hearts, or sautéed spinach between the layers.
3. Herb Infusion:
- Add a sprinkle of Italian seasoning or dried oregano between the layers for an extra burst of flavor.
4. Make-Ahead Option:
- This dish can be assembled a day in advance. Simply cover and refrigerate it, then bake it fresh before serving.
5. Gluten-Free Option:
- Use gluten-free crescent roll dough and ensure all your other ingredients are gluten-free to accommodate dietary needs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use a different type of dough?
- A: Yes, you can use puff pastry or pizza dough as a substitute. Just adjust the baking time as needed to ensure the dough is fully cooked.
Q: How should I store leftovers?
- A: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Q: Can I freeze Squared Antipasto?
- A: Yes, you can freeze the assembled, unbaked dish. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. When ready to bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed.
Q: What can I serve with this dish?
- A: Squared Antipasto pairs well with a fresh green salad, garlic bread, or a bowl of minestrone soup for a complete meal.
Squared Antipasto is a delicious and versatile dish that combines the rich flavors of Italian antipasto into a convenient, baked form. Whether you’re making it for a family meal, a potluck, or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to be a hit. The layers of meats, cheeses, and roasted red peppers, combined with the savory pesto and Parmesan, create a mouthwatering treat that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare. Enjoy this delightful dish and share the recipe with friends and family for a taste of Italy in every bite.
Enjoy the savory and cheesy goodness of Squared Antipasto and elevate your appetizer game with this crowd-pleasing recipe!
