Squared Antipasto Recipe

Savor the flavors of Italy with this delightful Squared Antipasto recipe. Perfect for parties, gatherings, or a cozy night in, this dish combines savory meats, cheeses, and aromatic pesto nestled between layers of flaky crescent roll dough. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.

Ingredients

• 1 package Crescent roll dough (8 ounces)
• 6 slices Salami
• 6 slices Pepperoni
• 6 slices Deli ham
• 6 slices Provolone cheese
• 6 slices Swiss cheese
• 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 2 tablespoons Basil flavored pesto
• 2 large Eggs
• 1/2 cup Roasted red peppers, diced

Instructions

Preparation:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Unroll the crescent roll dough and press it evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish, ensuring it covers the entire surface.
3. Layer the slices of salami, pepperoni, deli ham, provolone cheese, and Swiss cheese over the crescent roll dough, creating an even distribution of flavors.
4. Spread the basil flavored pesto evenly over the layers of cheese and meats, adding a burst of herbal goodness to each bite.
5. In a small bowl, lightly beat the eggs. Drizzle the beaten eggs over the top of the antipasto layers, ensuring they coat the entire surface.
6. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese and diced roasted red peppers over the top, adding a final touch of savory and sweet flavors.

Baking:

1. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the crescent roll dough is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
2. Remove the squared antipasto from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing into squares or rectangles for serving.

Serving:

1. Serve the squared antipasto warm, either as an appetizer or a main dish. Pair it with a fresh green salad dressed with balsamic vinaigrette for a complete meal.
2. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving to maintain the flavors and texture.

Cook’s Notes:

• Variations: Feel free to personalize your squared antipasto by experimenting with different combinations of meats, cheeses, and toppings. Add olives, sun-dried tomatoes, or artichoke hearts for a Mediterranean twist.
• Make-Ahead: You can assemble the squared antipasto ahead of time, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. Bake it when you’re ready to serve, ensuring a fresh and delicious dish every time.
• Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian version, omit the meats and double up on the cheeses. Add grilled vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, or bell peppers for added flavor and texture.

This Squared Antipasto recipe is a celebration of Italian flavors and culinary simplicity. With layers of savory meats, creamy cheeses, and zesty pesto baked into flaky crescent roll dough, it’s a dish that brings comfort and satisfaction to any table. Whether you’re hosting a party or looking for a delicious weeknight dinner option, this recipe delivers on taste and ease of preparation. Enjoy the rich flavors and versatility of this delightful squared antipasto, and watch it become a staple in your kitchen repertoire

Additional Tips and Variations

Tips for Success:

• Even Layering: When layering the meats and cheeses, ensure they are evenly distributed to achieve a balanced flavor in every bite.
• Egg Wash: Be sure to lightly beat the eggs before drizzling over the antipasto. This helps to bind the layers together and adds a golden brown finish to the crescent roll dough.
• Pesto Application: Use a generous amount of basil flavored pesto for a robust herbal taste. You can adjust the amount based on your preference for a more pronounced or subtle flavor.

Serving Suggestions:

• Appetizer Spread: Cut the squared antipasto into smaller squares or triangles for a delightful appetizer spread. Serve alongside marinara sauce or additional pesto for dipping.
• Main Course: Serve larger portions as a main dish alongside a fresh garden salad and crusty bread. It makes for a satisfying meal that’s both hearty and flavorful.

Variations:

• Meat Lover’s Delight: For a heartier version, add cooked Italian sausage or crumbled bacon between the layers of cheese and meats.
• Vegetarian Twist: Omit the meats altogether and layer with grilled or roasted vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms. You can also add a layer of sun-dried tomatoes or marinated artichoke hearts for added depth of flavor.
• Mediterranean Inspiration: Replace the basil pesto with a sun-dried tomato pesto and add Kalamata olives and feta cheese for a Mediterranean flair.

Make-Ahead and Storage:

• Make-Ahead: Assemble the squared antipasto up to 24 hours in advance. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate until ready to bake. This allows the flavors to meld together for an even more delicious dish.
• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through before serving.

Nutritional Information:

• Calories: A serving of squared antipasto typically contains around 300-350 calories, depending on the size and ingredients used.
• Protein and Calcium: With the combination of meats and cheeses, this dish provides a good amount of protein and calcium, making it a satisfying and nutritious choice.

This Squared Antipasto recipe not only delights the palate with its layers of savory meats, cheeses, and aromatic pesto but also offers versatility and ease of preparation. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply enjoying a cozy meal at home, this dish brings the flavors of Italy to your table with every bite. With tips for success, creative variations, and practical make-ahead options, you can confidently create a delicious squared antipasto that’s sure to impress. Embrace the culinary spirit of Italy and enjoy the rich flavors and textures of this delightful dish!