When it comes to cooking, there are few things more exciting than firing up the grill and throwing together a batch of skewers. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or just want a quick and easy dinner solution, spedini (or Italian-style kebabs) are the way to go. These bite-sized morsels of flavor can be made with an incredible range of ingredients, from classic Italian meats like beef and pork to seafood, vegetables, and even cheese.
In this article, we’ll explore 18 different spedini recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. From spicy pork and grilled vegetable options to decadent prosciutto-wrapped mozzarella and savory lamb dishes, there’s something for everyone in this collection of mouthwatering recipes.
Classic Italian Beef Spedini
A classic Italian appetizer or snack, Beef Spedini is a crowd-pleaser. This recipe yields tender, flavorful beef skewers with a rich tomato sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef sirloin, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup dry white wine
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 12 bamboo skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Add beef cubes and toss to coat.
4. Thread beef onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Place skewers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
7. While the beef is cooking, combine wine, broth, tomato paste, and oregano in a saucepan.
8. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes or until reduced slightly.
9. Serve beef skewers with warm tomato sauce.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Garlic Butter Shrimp Spedini
Garlic Butter Shrimp Spedini Recipe
Savor the flavors of Italy with this classic shrimp dish, infused with the pungency of garlic and the richness of butter.
Ingredients:
– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
4. If using white wine, add it to the pan and cook for an additional minute.
5. Place the shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Spoon the garlic butter mixture evenly over the shrimp.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the shrimp are pink and cooked through.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Serves: 4
Lemon Herb Chicken Spedini
Brighten up your meal with this zesty and flavorful Italian-inspired dish, featuring chicken breasts marinated in a refreshing blend of lemon, herbs, and spices.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the chicken breasts to the marinade, turning to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
4. Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
5. Place the chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. If using breadcrumbs, sprinkle evenly over the top of each breast.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Pork Spedini with Peppers
Elevate your appetizer game with this flavorful and spicy pork spiedini, perfectly paired with sweet peppers.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pork tenderloin, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
3. Add the pork pieces to the bowl and toss to coat evenly with the spice mixture.
4. Thread the pork pieces onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Place the skewers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Roast in the oven for 12-15 minutes or until the pork is cooked through.
7. Meanwhile, toss the sliced peppers and onion with olive oil, salt, and black pepper.
8. Add the pepper mixture to the baking sheet and continue roasting for an additional 5-7 minutes.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Grilled Vegetable Spedini with Balsamic Glaze
Savor the flavors of Italy with this easy-to-make Grilled Vegetable Spedini, topped with a tangy balsamic glaze. Perfect for a quick and delicious dinner or as a side dish for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, zucchini, eggplant, onions, mushrooms)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup balsamic glaze (homemade or store-bought)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Brush vegetables with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
3. Grill vegetables for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until tender and slightly charred.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic glaze and 1 tbsp water.
5. Once vegetables are done grilling, brush the balsamic glaze evenly over the top of each spedini.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Prosciutto-Wrapped Mozzarella Spedini
Elevate your antipasto game with this elegant and easy-to-make Prosciutto-Wrapped Mozzarella Spedini. Thin slices of prosciutto wrapped around fresh mozzarella, then baked until golden and crispy.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz fresh mozzarella balls
– 6-8 thin slices of prosciutto
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the prosciutto into long strips.
3. Wrap each mozzarella ball with a prosciutto strip, leaving a small border at the top.
4. Place the wrapped mozzarella on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the prosciutto is crispy and golden.
6. Garnish with chopped basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
BBQ Glazed Beef and Onion Spedini
This recipe combines the tender goodness of beef with the sweet and tangy flavors of BBQ glaze, all wrapped up in a flavorful skewer. Perfect for your next outdoor gathering or dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef sirloin, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1 large onion, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup BBQ glaze (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10-12 bamboo skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, combine beef cubes, onion pieces, BBQ glaze, and olive oil. Toss until all the ingredients are well coated.
3. Thread beef and onion onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Season with salt and pepper as needed.
5. Place skewers on grill and cook for 8-10 minutes per side, or until beef reaches desired level of doneness.
6. Remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Mediterranean Lamb Spedini with Tzatziki
Savor the flavors of Greece with this refreshing and flavorful appetizer, perfect for warm weather gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound lamb or beef spiedini (skewers), cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped
– 1 lemon, juiced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Tzatziki sauce (see below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or broiler to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, oregano, and lemon juice.
3. Thread lamb or beef onto skewers, leaving a 1/4-inch space between each piece.
4. Brush the skewers with the olive oil mixture, season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Grill or broil for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until cooked through.
Tzatziki Sauce:
– 1 cup Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup diced cucumber
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Combine all ingredients in a bowl, stir well. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Teriyaki Salmon Spedini Skewers
Discover the flavors of Japan with these sweet and savory Teriyaki Salmon Skewers, perfect for a quick and easy dinner or outdoor gathering.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each), cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions, for garnish
– Wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, brown sugar, soy sauce, and ginger until smooth.
3. Thread salmon pieces onto skewers, leaving a 1-inch space between each piece.
4. Brush the teriyaki mixture evenly over the salmon, making sure all pieces are coated.
5. Grill skewers for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Garnish with green onions and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Pesto Chicken and Tomato Spedini
Pesto Chicken and Tomato Spedini Recipe
This recipe combines the flavors of Italy with a delicious twist on traditional chicken skewers. Tender chicken breast, cherry tomatoes, and fresh basil come together to create a dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a summer gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/2 cup store-bought or homemade pesto
– 12-16 cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together pesto and olive oil. Add chicken and toss until coated.
3. Thread chicken, cherry tomatoes, and salt onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Grill skewers for 8-10 minutes or until chicken is cooked through, turning occasionally.
5. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Bacon-Wrapped Scallop Spedini
A flavorful and elegant Italian-inspired appetizer that combines the sweetness of scallops with the smokiness of bacon.
Ingredients:
– 12 large scallops
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon, cut into thirds
– 1/4 cup of olive oil
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the scallops under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
3. Wrap each scallop with a piece of bacon, securing it with a toothpick if needed.
4. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
5. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the bacon-wrapped scallops.
6. Place the scallops on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 12-15 minutes or until the bacon is crispy and golden brown.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Greek-Style Halloumi Spedini
Greek-Style Halloumi Spedini Recipe
Discover the authentic flavors of Greece with this simple and delicious recipe for Halloumi Spedini, a classic Cypriot appetizer. Perfect for any gathering or party, these crispy cheese bites are sure to impress!
Ingredients:
– 1 block of halloumi cheese (about 8 oz)
– 1/4 cup of olive oil
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon of lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or oregano for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the halloumi cheese into bite-sized pieces.
3. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
4. Add the cheese pieces to the marinade and toss to coat evenly.
5. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the cheese bites in a single layer.
6. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until golden brown and crispy on the outside.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Garnish with fresh parsley or oregano, if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!
Sweet and Sour Pork Spedini
This classic Italian-inspired dish combines the tender sweetness of pork with the tangy kick of a sweet and sour sauce, all wrapped up in crispy speckled bread. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pork tenderloin, sliced into thin strips
– 1/4 cup sweet and sour sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4-6 Speckled bread rolls
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, whisk together sweet and sour sauce, olive oil, parsley, and oregano.
3. Add the pork strips to the marinade and toss to coat. Let sit for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
4. Meanwhile, preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Remove pork from marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
5. Grill pork for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through. Transfer to a baking sheet and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes to crisp the exterior.
6. Warm the Speckled bread rolls according to package instructions. Assemble by placing grilled pork on each roll and serving immediately.
Cooking Time: Approximately 25-30 minutes
Herbed Turkey and Cranberry Spedini
This recipe combines the flavors of turkey, herbs, and cranberries to create a delicious appetizer or main course. Perfect for a holiday gathering or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup cranberry sauce
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, parsley, olive oil, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and shape each portion into a ball.
4. Place the balls onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving about 1 inch of space between each.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
6. While the turkey is cooking, warm the cranberry sauce in the microwave or on the stovetop.
7. Serve the turkey with cranberry sauce and crumbled feta cheese (if using).
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Caprese Spedini with Fresh Basil
Experience the simplicity of Italy’s iconic Caprese salad reimagined as bite-sized skewers, bursting with fresh flavors and colors.
Ingredients:
– 8-10 cherry tomatoes, halved
– 8-10 fresh mozzarella balls, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze (or reduced balsamic vinegar)
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped
– Wooden toothpicks or skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Thread a cherry tomato half, a mozzarella round, and another cherry tomato half onto each toothpick or skewer.
3. Drizzle the olive oil over the skewers, followed by a drizzle of balsamic glaze.
4. Sprinkle chopped fresh basil leaves evenly among the skewers.
5. Place the Caprese Spedini on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 10-12 minutes or until the cheese is melted and slightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Cajun-Spiced Shrimp and Sausage Spedini
Elevate your appetizer game with this bold and flavorful Cajun-spiced shrimp and sausage dish. Perfect for a quick gathering or party, these bite-sized spiedini are sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 cup sliced Andouille sausage
– 1/4 cup Cajun seasoning blend
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together Cajun seasoning, olive oil, lemon juice, and garlic.
3. Add shrimp and sausage; toss to coat evenly.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Arrange shrimp and sausage in a single layer.
5. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until shrimp are pink and cooked through.
6. Serve hot with toothpicks, garnished with parsley or scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Asian-Inspired Beef and Mushroom Spedini
Elevate your snack game with this flavorful Asian-inspired beef and mushroom spedini, perfect for a quick and satisfying bite.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (shiitake, cremini, oyster), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– 8-10 wonton wrappers
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, and garlic.
3. Add the beef strips and marinate for at least 15 minutes, or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
4. Meanwhile, heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the mushrooms until they release their liquid and start browning, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Remove the beef from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off. Wrap each beef strip with a wonton wrapper, then place seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Drizzle the cooked mushrooms over the beef, then sprinkle with red pepper flakes (if using).
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the beef is cooked through and the wrappers are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Rosemary Garlic Steak Spedini
Rosemary Garlic Steak Spedini Recipe
This Italian-inspired dish is a flavorful twist on traditional steak sandwiches. Tender steaks are marinated in a mixture of olive oil, rosemary, and garlic, then grilled to perfection and served with crusty bread.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound flank steak
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 slices of Italian bread
– Fresh arugula leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, and rosemary.
2. Place the steak in a large ziplock bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the steak, turning to coat evenly. Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours.
3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Remove the steak from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off. Grill the steak for 5-7 minutes per side, or until it reaches desired level of doneness.
4. Slice the grilled steak against the grain into thin strips. Serve on Italian bread with a sprinkle of salt and pepper, topped with fresh arugula leaves.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to impress your guests with these 18 delicious spedini recipes, perfect for any occasion. From classic Italian beef and prosciutto-wrapped mozzarella to Mediterranean lamb and Cajun-spiced shrimp and sausage, there’s something for everyone. Try grilled vegetable skewers with balsamic glaze or teriyaki salmon skewers for a lighter option. For meat lovers, indulge in BBQ glazed beef and onion or Asian-inspired beef and mushroom spedini. Whether you’re hosting a party or just need a quick dinner solution, these recipes are sure to please.
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