Tortellini Skewers

5 from 2 votes

Dec 16, 2015, Updated May 24, 2025

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These tortellini skewers are a fun, easy party appetizer made with cheesy tortellini, olives, grape tomatoes, and fresh mozzarella. Perfect for holidays, potlucks, or anytime you need a quick make-ahead snack!

Tortellini Skewers with Olives Tomatoes and Cheese | Holiday Appetizer

Hi! Hello! Hey! So, remember when I said I was taking my girls to see Santa last Friday? Usually, they freak out the moment they even see that red suit. But guess what?! Total success. They hugged him, sat next to him, and gave him their toy wish list – it was the whole magical scene! I was proud, slightly emotional, and honestly? A little shocked. Turns out, Santa ain’t so scary after all. ⬇️

Oh but you came for the tortellini skewers, too! No worries; I’m comin’ with the info.

SO. How about that one time I ate tortellini skewers like it was my job, just straight-up olives, tomatoes, mozzarella, and cheesy tortellini on repeat until the platter was gone. Honestly, I go after them the same way I scarf down these deviled eggs or a big ol’ bowl of tortellini salad. No shame, no regrets. These tortellini skewers are one of my go-to appetizers for parties, holidays, and last-minute gatherings. They’re delicious, cheesy, and always the first to disappear.

Reasons To Make This Tortellini Appetizer

They’re ridiculously easy. Skewer, chill, serve. That’s it. No cooking required (unless you’re counting boiling pasta), and you can make these tortellini skewers ahead of time.
They look like a party on a stick. Whether it’s for a holiday table or a random weekday lunch you’re trying to make feel fancy, these easy tortellini skewers bring all the color and all the vibes. They’re festive, fun, and totally Instagram-worthy.
You can customize them however you want. I went meatless this time, but you do you! Add salami, swap the olives, drizzle with balsamic, etc. There’s no wrong way to stack delicious things on a stick. Your guests will love them, and so will you.

A bowl of olives, a bowl of fresh mozzarella balls, packaged tortellini, and cherry tomatoes all arranged on a table.

Ingredients For Tortellini Skewers

These antipasto-inspired skewers are made with a handful of fresh ingredients. They’re the ultimate make-ahead cold appetizer with pasta. I’ve listed all the ingredients below, but be sure to scroll to the recipe card for the full amounts and instructions.

Cheese-Stuffed Tortellini – Use a 20-ounce package of multi-colored tortellini for a fun, festive look. Cook and cool before assembling.
Fresh Mozzarella Balls – Cherry-size mozzarella adds a creamy, mild contrast to the briny olives and tangy tomatoes.
Pimiento-Stuffed Manzanilla Olives – A classic salty touch that brings bold flavor to every skewer. Use your favorite jarred brand.
Grape Tomatoes – Juicy, fresh, and sweet—perfect for balancing all the savory notes.
Wooden Skewers – 10-inch skewers work great for stacking all your ingredients with room to hold at the bottom.
Fresh Basil – Thin strips of basil add freshness and color—don’t skip it!
Extra Virgin Olive Oil – Just a light drizzle over the top gives richness and ties everything together.
Balsamic Glaze – A final drizzle for that perfect sweet-tangy finish.

Tortellini kabobs arranged on an oval platter.

How To Make Tortellini Skewers

These holiday tortellini kabobs are super easy to put together and always look party-perfect! With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a delicious appetizer ready to go! Here’s how you do it, step-by-step:

Cook the tortellini. Boil according to package directions, then rinse with cold water to stop the cooking. Drain well and pat them dry. They need to be completely cool before assembling.
Assemble the skewers. Thread 3 tortellini onto each skewer, followed by 1 mozzarella ball, 3 olives, 1 grape tomato, 3 more tortellini, 2 more olives, and finish with another grape tomato. Continue assembling the skewers until you’ve used up all your ingredients.
Add finishing touches. Sprinkle with fresh basil strips, then drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar right before serving.
Serve and enjoy. Arrange the tortellini skewers on a long platter and get ready for them to disappear fast!

🕒 Make Ahead Tips

You can assemble these tortellini skewers up to 24 hours in advance. Just cover them tightly with plastic wrap or store them in an airtight container in a single layer. Keep them chilled in the fridge until you’re ready to serve. Don’t drizzle the olive oil and balsamic until right before serving to keep everything fresh and vibrant.

Tortellini Skewers with Olives Tomatoes and Cheese served on a platter.

Proper Storage

Wrap leftover tortellini skewers tightly or store them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. They’re still delicious the next day, but give them a little toss or refresh the drizzle of oil and vinegar before serving again.

Delicious Tortellini Recipes

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Tortellini Skewers with Olives Tomatoes and Cheese Recipe - Fun and festive appetizer plate with cheesy tortellini, flavorful manzanilla olives, grape tomatoes and fresh mozzarella cheese threaded on skewers. A gorgeous addition to your Holiday table!

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5 from 2 votes