20 Savory Spedini Recipes Perfect for Entertaining
Are you tired of serving the same old appetizers at your gatherings? Look no further! Spedini, the Italian term for “skewers,” is a delicious and easy way to feed a crowd. These bite-sized morsels can be made with a variety of ingredients, from meats and seafood to vegetables and cheese.
In this article, we’ll explore 20 mouthwatering Spedini recipes that are sure to impress your friends and family. From classic beef skewers with garlic and herb butter to spicy sausage and pepper skewers with charred onions, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just want to add some excitement to your next barbecue, these Spedini recipes are perfect for any occasion.
So let’s get started! In the following pages, we’ll dive into each of these 20 recipes, providing step-by-step instructions and tips for making them a success. Get ready to elevate your entertaining game with these savory and delicious Spedini dishes!
Classic Italian Beef Spedini with Garlic and Herb Butter
Savor the flavors of Italy with this classic recipe for tender beef spedini, elevated by a rich garlic and herb butter. Perfect for snacking or as an appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef top round or round tip
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 tablespoons butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Slice the beef into thin strips and season with salt and pepper.
3. In a shallow dish, mix breadcrumbs and garlic.
4. Dip each beef strip in the breadcrumb mixture, coating evenly.
5. Place coated beef strips on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Drizzle olive oil over the beef and bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Meanwhile, mix softened butter with parsley, salt, and pepper.
8. Serve beef spedini warm with garlic and herb butter spread on top.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Grilled Chicken Spedini Skewers with Lemon and Rosemary
Elevate your outdoor cooking game with these flavorful skewers, perfect for a quick and easy dinner or impressive party appetizer. Tender chicken, zesty lemon, and fragrant rosemary come together in a harmonious union.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10-12 bamboo skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, rosemary, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Add chicken pieces to the marinade and mix well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Thread marinated chicken onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Grill skewers for 8-10 minutes per side, or until chicken is cooked through and slightly charred.
6. Serve hot with your favorite sides or as an appetizer.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Garlic Butter Shrimp Spedini with Chili Flakes
Add a spicy kick to your seafood with this flavorful and easy-to-make Garlic Butter Shrimp Spedini dish, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix together garlic, butter, and chili flakes.
3. Add shrimp to the bowl and toss until they are evenly coated with the garlic-butter mixture.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the shrimp in a single layer.
6. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the shrimp are pink and cooked through.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Pork and Bacon Spedini with Honey Mustard Glaze
Elevate your appetizer game with this sweet and savory combination of pork, bacon, and honey mustard glaze. Perfect for parties or gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pork tenderloin, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon, cooked and crumbled
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together honey, mustard, and olive oil.
3. Add the pork pieces and toss to coat.
4. Thread the pork and crumbled bacon onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Place the skewers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Brush the glaze evenly over the meat, ensuring all surfaces are coated.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the pork reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
9. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Vegetable Spedini with Zucchini, Bell Peppers, and Mushrooms
This Italian-inspired appetizer is a flavorful and colorful combination of sautéed zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms, all wrapped up in crispy bread. Perfect for snacking or as a side dish, this vegetable spedini is sure to please!
Ingredients:
– 1 medium zucchini, sliced
– 2 medium bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 8 oz fresh mushrooms (button or cremini), sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 package of puff pastry, thawed
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms. Cook until vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Roll out puff pastry to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Cut into squares or strips.
5. Place a spoonful of the vegetable mixture onto one half of each pastry square. Fold other half over filling and press edges with fork to seal.
6. Brush tops with olive oil and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lamb Spedini with Mint Pesto and Yogurt Sauce
Experience the authentic flavors of Italy with this refreshing lamb skewer recipe, perfectly paired with a cooling mint pesto and tangy yogurt sauce.
Ingredients:
– 500g lamb cubes ( shoulder or neck)
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Mint Pesto Sauce (recipe below)
– Yogurt Sauce (recipe below)
Mint Pesto Sauce:
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Yogurt Sauce:
– 250ml plain yogurt
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, combine lamb cubes, olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Thread lamb onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Grill for 8-10 minutes per side or until cooked to desired level of doneness.
5. Serve with Mint Pesto Sauce and Yogurt Sauce.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Sausage and Pepper Spedini with Charred Onions
This recipe combines the flavors of spicy sausage, sweet peppers, and caramelized onions for a hearty and satisfying snack or appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb spicy Italian sausage
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced into 1-inch pieces
– 1 large onion, sliced into 1-inch rings
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: crusty bread or crackers for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place sausage slices on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each slice.
4. Roast in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until browned and cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, toss pepper slices and garlic with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a separate baking sheet.
6. Roast peppers in the oven for 15-18 minutes, or until tender and slightly caramelized.
7. Remove from oven and let cool slightly. Slice onions into rings and cook over medium-high heat until charred, about 5 minutes per side.
8. Serve sausage with roasted peppers and charred onions. Enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cheesy Mozzarella and Tomato Spedini with Basil Drizzle
Cheesy Mozzarella and Tomato Spedini with Basil Drizzle is a delightful appetizer or snack that combines the richness of mozzarella, the sweetness of tomatoes, and the brightness of fresh basil. Perfect for any gathering or celebration!
Ingredients:
– 12-15 cherry tomatoes, halved
– 8 oz mozzarella cheese, sliced into thin rounds
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (for drizzle)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together breadcrumbs, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each mozzarella round into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place coated mozzarella on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil.
5. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Top each cheese ball with a halved cherry tomato and a sprinkle of salt.
7. In a small bowl, mix together chopped basil leaves with a pinch of salt.
8. Serve the spedini warm with the basil drizzle spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Teriyaki Glazed Chicken Spedini with Pineapple Chunks
Elevate your appetizers game with this sweet and savory Teriyaki glazed chicken spedini, paired with juicy pineapple chunks.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into thin strips
– 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 pineapple, chunks (about 1 cup)
– Sesame seeds and chopped scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, brown sugar, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and grated ginger.
3. Add chicken strips to the marinade and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Remove chicken from marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off. Place chicken on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
6. During the last 2 minutes of cooking, place pineapple chunks on the baking sheet and return to the oven.
7. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped scallions (if using). Serve warm.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Greek-Style Spedini with Halloumi and Olives
Savor the rich flavors of Greece with this classic appetizer, perfect for warm gatherings or as a quick snack. Crunchy bread, salty olives, and creamy halloumi cheese come together in a delightful union.
Ingredients:
– 12 slices of baguette (or other crusty bread)
– 1 block of halloumi cheese, sliced
– 1/2 cup of pitted green olives, halved
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or oregano for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Slice the bread into 1-inch thick pieces.
3. In a small bowl, mix together minced garlic and olive oil.
4. Brush the garlic-oil mixture onto each bread slice.
5. Place the bread slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Top each bread slice with a piece of halloumi cheese and an olive half.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is slightly melted and the bread is toasted.
9. Garnish with fresh herbs, if desired.
10. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Balsamic Glazed Steak Spedini with Caramelized Onions
Elevate your steak game with this flavorful and easy-to-make Balsamic Glazed Steak Spedini, paired with sweet caramelized onions.
Ingredients:
– 1.5 lbs flank steak
– 1/4 cup balsamic glaze
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the steak over medium-high heat for 3-4 minutes per side, or until desired level of doneness.
3. Transfer the steak to a plate and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing into thin strips.
4. In the same skillet, add olive oil and cook onions over low heat for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until caramelized and golden brown.
5. Brush the balsamic glaze onto the sliced steak and serve with caramelized onions and garnish with thyme leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Mediterranean Spedini with Shrimp, Feta, and Cherry Tomatoes
Experience the bold flavors of the Mediterranean with this quick and easy appetizer or snack. Satisfy your taste buds with succulent shrimp, tangy feta cheese, and sweet cherry tomatoes, all wrapped up in a crispy pastry package.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of puff pastry, thawed
– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to desired thickness.
3. Place shrimp along the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border on either side.
4. Top with feta cheese and cherry tomatoes.
5. Fold the pastry over the filling, pressing edges to seal.
6. Brush tops with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
8. Garnish with fresh parsley leaves and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
BBQ Pulled Pork Spedini with Coleslaw Topping
Get ready to delight your taste buds with this mouth-watering combination of tender pulled pork, crunchy spedini, and a refreshing coleslaw topping. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for casual gatherings or weeknight dinners.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless pork shoulder
– 1 cup BBQ sauce
– 12-15 spedini (Italian meatballs)
– Coleslaw:
+ 1 head cabbage, shredded
+ 1/4 cup mayonnaise
+ 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
+ 1 tsp Dijon mustard
+ Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for greasing the rack
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Season the pork shoulder with salt, pepper, and your favorite BBQ seasoning.
3. Slow cook the pork in a Dutch oven or crockpot with 1/4 cup of BBQ sauce for 8-10 hours.
4. Prepare the spedini according to package instructions.
5. Assemble the pulled pork on the spedini and top with coleslaw (see below).
6. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for an additional 15 minutes.
Coleslaw Topping:
1. In a bowl, combine shredded cabbage, mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
2. Mix well until the slaw is creamy and crunchy.
Cooking Time: 9-10 hours (slow cooking) + 15 minutes for assembly and baking.
Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus Spedini with Lemon Zest
Elevate your appetizer game with this elegant and flavorful Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus Spedini. Thin slices of prosciutto wrapped around tender asparagus, finished with a burst of citrus from lemon zest, make for a stunning and delicious start to any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 6-8 thin slices of prosciutto
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon grated lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Wrap each asparagus spear with a slice of prosciutto, securing with a toothpick if needed.
4. Drizzle the asparagus with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the prosciutto is crispy and golden brown.
6. Remove from oven and drizzle with lemon juice and zest.
7. Serve warm, garnished with additional lemon zest if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Cajun-Spiced Chicken and Andouille Spedini
Experience the bold flavors of Louisiana with this hearty appetizer featuring spicy Cajun chicken and smoky Andouille sausage. Perfect for game day gatherings or casual get-togethers.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup Cajun seasoning blend
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 4 Andouille sausages, sliced
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together Cajun seasoning blend and olive oil.
3. Add chicken pieces to the marinade, tossing to coat evenly. Let sit for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
4. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and spray with cooking spray. Arrange sausage slices on the sheet.
5. Remove chicken from marinade, letting excess liquid drip off. Place chicken pieces on the baking sheet with the sausages.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until chicken is cooked through and sausage is crispy.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Caprese-Inspired Spedini with Fresh Basil and Balsamic Reduction
Elevate your appetizer game with this vibrant Caprese-inspired take on traditional spiedini. Fresh basil and balsamic reduction add a burst of flavor to this easy-to-make, visually stunning dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound veal or beef cut into thin strips
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Balsamic reduction (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, whisk together olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Add veal or beef strips; marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
4. Remove meat from marinade; thread onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Grill or broil spiedini for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until cooked through.
6. Meanwhile, toss cherry tomatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast in the oven for 10-12 minutes, or until tender.
7. Assemble skewers by placing mozzarella slices between meat pieces. Top with roasted tomatoes and sprinkle with chopped basil.
8. Drizzle balsamic reduction over the top; serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Moroccan Lamb Spedini with Harissa and Apricot Glaze
Savor the rich flavors of Morocco with this aromatic lamb skewer dish, marinated in a blend of spices, herbs, and sweet apricot glaze. Perfect for special occasions or casual gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound lamb shoulder or leg, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons harissa
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly chopped parsley
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup apricot jam
– 2 tablespoons honey
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or broiler to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, harissa, garlic, parsley, cumin, salt, and pepper. Add lamb cubes and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Thread marinated lamb onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Grill or broil lamb for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired level of doneness.
5. Meanwhile, mix apricot jam and honey in a small bowl. Brush glaze over lamb during the last minute of cooking.
6. Serve warm with additional harissa on the side (optional).
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes.
Buffalo Chicken Spedini with Blue Cheese Dip
Elevate your snack game with this addictive appetizer that combines the bold flavors of buffalo chicken and creamy blue cheese. Perfect for parties or casual gatherings, these bite-sized treats are sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup Frank’s RedHot sauce
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 package of frozen puff pastry, thawed
– 1/4 cup blue cheese crumbles
– 1/4 cup sour cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine chicken, buffalo sauce, and butter. Mix until coated.
3. Unroll puff pastry on a floured surface. Cut into 1-inch squares.
4. Place a spoonful of the chicken mixture onto each square, leaving a 1/2-inch border around edges.
5. Fold squares in half to form triangles, pressing edges to seal.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Meanwhile, mix blue cheese crumbles and sour cream in a bowl. Serve with warm spedini.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Ratatouille Spedini with Eggplant, Zucchini, and Tomato
This classic Provençal dish gets a delicious twist with the addition of tender eggplant, zucchini, and tomato. A flavorful vegetarian delight that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 3 large tomatoes, diced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss together eggplant, zucchini, and tomatoes.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour the olive oil mixture over the vegetables and toss to coat.
5. Transfer the vegetable mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until the vegetables are tender and lightly browned.
7. Garnish with chopped fresh basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Garlic Butter Scallop Spedini with Crispy Prosciutto
Elevate your appetizer game with this decadent and flavorful dish, featuring succulent scallops, crispy prosciutto, and a rich garlic butter sauce.
Ingredients:
– 12 large scallops
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 6 slices prosciutto, thinly sliced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add white wine (if using), chicken broth, and lemon juice. Bring to a simmer and cook until reduced by half.
4. Meanwhile, preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Season scallops with salt and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Wrap prosciutto slices around grilled scallops, securing with toothpicks if needed.
6. Serve scallop spedini with garlic butter sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to impress your guests with these 20 savory spedini recipes! From classic Italian beef with garlic and herb butter, to grilled chicken skewers with lemon and rosemary, there’s something for everyone. Try your hand at garlic butter shrimp with chili flakes, pork and bacon with honey mustard glaze, or vegetable options like zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms. For a taste of the Mediterranean, try lamb with mint pesto and yogurt sauce, or go bold with spicy sausage and pepper with charred onions. And don’t forget sweet treats like cheesy mozzarella and tomato with basil drizzle! With so many options, you’ll never be at a loss for inspiration.
