Tortellini Skewers

I swear, I could eat tortellini skewers like it was my job. And for a day, it sort of was: Straight-up olives, tomatoes, mozzarella, and cheesy tortellini on repeat while finessing this recipe, until the platter was gone. Honestly, I go after them the same way I scarf down these deviled eggs or a big bowl of tortellini salad.

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. You’ll see why soon enough!

Reasons To Make These Tortellini Appetizer Skewers

• 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.

What You’ll Need 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.
• Fresh Basil – Thin strips of basil add freshness and color—don’t skip it!
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil – Just a drizzle over the top gives richness and ties everything together.
• Balsamic Glaze – A final drizzle for that perfect sweet-tangy finish.
• Wooden Skewers – Can’t forget these! 10-inch skewers work great for stacking all your ingredients with room to hold at the bottom.

What to Serve With Tortellini Skewers

These are such a fun and easy appetizer to make for any occasion. They’re great for summer meals, but just as perfect during the holidays. Try these serving suggestions:

• Dips: Stick with the Italian theme with crackers and pizza dip, or this Mediterranean 7-layer dip. I also love this baked shrimp dip and classic creamy artichoke dip.
• Appetizers: Pair these tortellini skewers with grissini breadsticks dipped in garlic butter, or try these crispy homemade arancini.
• Cookout food: I love preparing these tortellini skewers for picnics and BBQs to serve alongside corn on the cob and cheeseburgers or Macedonian kebabs from the grill.
• More skewers: Make it a hands-only party with tortellini skewers, BBQ chicken skewers, and these bacon-wrapped chicken bites on skewers.

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:

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. Add finishing touches. Sprinkle with fresh basil strips, then drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar right before serving.
4. Serve and enjoy. Arrange the tortellini skewers on a long platter and get ready for them to disappear fast!

Proper Storage

• Refrigerate. 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

• Chicken Tortellini
• Tortellini Alfredo
• Tortellini Soup
• Spinach Tortellini Tomato Soup