I love having beautiful appetizers available for guests. Charcuterie trays are always a crowd-pleaser, but they often take quite a bit of time, planning, and expense to pull together. That’s why I’m so excited to share my new favorite way to capture that same charcuterie board charm without all the hassle. These pepperoni rose skewers are incredibly easy to make, require only a few simple ingredients, and feel just as elevated as a traditional spread.
With fresh basil, mozzarella cheese balls, and savory salami roses (or pepperoni flowers, as I like to call them), each skewer delivers bold flavor and gorgeous presentation with minimal effort. Whether you’re hosting a backyard get-together or preparing for a cozy date night, this appetizer is stylish, budget-friendly, and perfect for mingling guests. Plus, because they’re already assembled on skewers, they’re a grab-and-go favorite at any gathering.
Ingredients for Pepperoni Rose Skewers
Optional: You can swap in slices of salami if you prefer a different flavor profile or want to make salami roses instead of pepperoni flowers.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Pepperoni Rose Skewers
Step 1: Add the Mozzarella Ball
Start by adding one mozzarella cheese ball to the skewer. Push it gently but firmly all the way to the opposite end of the stick. This will act as the anchor for your other ingredients.
Step 2: Add a Fresh Basil Leaf
Next, fold a fresh basil leaf slightly if needed and press it up against the mozzarella ball on the skewer. The vibrant green adds beautiful color contrast and aromatic flavor.
Step 3: Create the Pepperoni Rose
Now it’s time to make the pepperoni rose. Begin by laying four slices of pepperoni in a horizontal row, overlapping each slice slightly from left to right. Once aligned, fold the row in half lengthwise, away from you, so the rounded edges are still visible.
Turn the folded strip 90 degrees toward you. Starting from the end closest to you, begin rolling the pepperoni tightly away from you. As you roll, it will naturally form a rose-like shape. Once fully rolled, carefully secure it onto the skewer, nestling it up against the basil leaf.
Step 4: Add Another Basil Leaf and Mozzarella Ball
After the pepperoni flower is secured, add another basil leaf followed by a second mozzarella cheese ball. This completes the full look of the skewer and balances the ingredients beautifully.
Step 5: Repeat the Process
Repeat this full process for each of your remaining skewers. Each one will have two mozzarella cheese balls, two basil leaves, and one pepperoni rose. You should be able to make about five skewers with the listed ingredients.
Step 6: Style and Serve
Once your skewers are assembled, style them on a serving tray or board for a stunning presentation. Serve immediately, or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before serving.
These skewers are just as practical as they are beautiful. They’re perfect for outdoor parties, family gatherings, holiday tables, or even tailgates. With their red, white, and green color scheme, they also make a festive Christmas appetizer and look lovely paired with a bottle of wine in a gift box.
Tips for the Best Pepperoni Rose Skewers
- Use toothpicks or smaller cocktail skewers if you’re making these for a bite-sized hors d’oeuvre.
- Try making salami roses using thin slices of salami if you want to switch things up.
- Chill the mozzarella cheese balls before assembling for easier handling.
- Tuck in a cherry tomato or an olive if you want to add a burst of extra flavor.
- Serve with a side of balsamic glaze for dipping to elevate the flavor even more.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these pepperoni rose skewers ahead of time?
Yes, you can make them up to 24 hours in advance. Just store them in an airtight container in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.
What kind of mozzarella works best?
Fresh mozzarella cheese balls are perfect for this recipe. Look for the kind sold in tubs with water for the best flavor and texture.
Do I have to use pepperoni?
Not at all. Slices of salami work beautifully too and are a great way to create salami roses for a different take on this appetizer.
Can I serve these warm?
These skewers are meant to be served cold or at room temperature, making them ideal for entertaining with minimal effort.
What occasions are these best for?
These are perfect for everything from casual date nights and dinner parties to holiday entertaining and tailgating. The presentation is elegant enough for formal gatherings but easy enough for everyday celebrations.
These pepperoni rose, mozzarella, and basil skewers are one of my favorite ways to elevate my appetizer game without spending a fortune or hours in the kitchen. They combine simple ingredients with beautiful presentation and a flavor that everyone loves.
If you try this recipe, I’d love to hear how it went! Tag me on social media @returninggrace or leave a comment on the blog post to let me know. And don’t forget to subscribe to my email list so you never miss a new recipe, DIY project, or seasonal decorating idea. Happy hosting!
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Equipment
- Wood Skewer Sticks
Ingredients
- 20 deli sized slices of pepperoni
- 12 oz Fresh Mozzarella Cheese Balls
- 10 fresh Basil Leaves
Instructions
- Add Fresh mozzarella ball to the skewer advancing all the way to the opposite end.
- Add Fresh Basil leaf to the skewer and press against the Mozzarella ball.
- Make the Pepperoni rose. To Make the Rose: Layer 4 pepperoni pieces over each other from left to right. Fold the pieces in half away from you keeping all of the pieces together. Turn the folded pepperoni pieces 90 degrees toward you. Starting at the bottom end closest to you, roll the folded pepperoni tightly away from you util the end. Secure the pepperoni rose shape onto the skewer pressing it up to the basil leaf.
- Repeat the processes of adding another fresh basil leaf and mozzarella ball. Step 5: Repeat the entire process for each skewer.
- Style and serve immediately or refrigerate in airtight container up to 24 hours before serving.
