Delicious Italian Snack Squares

Kitchen Spotlight Nibbles and bites when hunger strikes.

A simple Italian-inspired appetizer with puff pastry, meats, cheese, and roasted veggies in bite-sized squares.
alicia in the kitchen
Recipe by Alicia
Fresh from the kitchen: Sun, 09 Mar 2025 14:08:55 GMT
Tasty puff pastry filled with ham, tomato, and cheese, sprinkled with herbs, served on a platter. Save for Later
Tasty puff pastry filled with ham, tomato, and cheese, sprinkled with herbs, served on a platter. | Tasteofsavor.com

These layered antipasto squares are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser at any gathering. The combination of Italian meats, melted cheeses, and roasted peppers wrapped in flaky puff pastry creates an irresistible appetizer that disappears quickly. Perfect for casual get-togethers or elegant family celebrations, these savory bites offer classic Mediterranean flavors in every bite.

The Perfect Party Appetizer

These baked antipasto squares deliver impressive results with minimal effort. The layers of cured meats, aged cheeses, and sweet roasted peppers create a stunning presentation when baked in golden puff pastry. The combination of textures and flavors makes them an ideal finger food for any occasion.

Essential Ingredients

  • The Base: 2 sheets refrigerated puff pastry for top and bottom
  • The Meats: 125g thinly sliced salami and 125g sliced ham
  • The Cheeses: 125g provolone and 125g Swiss cheese
  • The Vegetables: 1 jar roasted red peppers, drained
  • The Binding: 3 beaten eggs
  • The Seasonings: Black pepper, dried oregano, garlic powder
  • The Topping: Grated Parmesan cheese

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation
Preheat oven to 175°C. Grease a 33x23cm baking dish.
Bottom Layer
Unfold first puff pastry sheet into dish, pressing into corners.
Layer Assembly
Layer salami, ham, provolone, and Swiss cheese.
Add Peppers
Distribute roasted peppers evenly over cheese layer.
Top Layer
Cover with second pastry sheet, sealing edges.
Egg Wash
Mix eggs with seasonings, brush over pastry.
Finishing Touch
Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
Baking
Bake 25-30 minutes until golden brown. Cool slightly before cutting.
Puff pastry rolls filled with ham, cheese and red peppers, seasoned with herbs. Save for Later
Puff pastry rolls filled with ham, cheese and red peppers, seasoned with herbs. | Tasteofsavor.com

Tips and Variations

This versatile recipe welcomes substitutions based on available ingredients. Experiment with different Italian meats and cheeses. Add fresh spinach for color or red pepper flakes for heat. The squares reheat well in the oven for a quick snack. For best results, let cool slightly before cutting to maintain clean edges.

Recipe Tips & Tricks

→ Can I make these squares ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble them a few hours before baking and keep them chilled. They also stay fresh for 2-3 days after baking.
→ Is it possible to change up the toppings?
Definitely! Feel free to swap in your favorite meats and cheeses. Adding ingredients like sun-dried tomatoes, olives, or artichokes is a great idea too.
→ How should I serve them?
You can serve them warm or at room temperature as a snack. They're great for picnics or party spreads.
→ Can I freeze them?
Yes, these squares freeze well after baking. Just warm them up in the oven at 300°F (about 150°C) for 10-15 minutes to get them crispy again.
→ How do I make the pastry golden brown?
Brushing the top with beaten egg yolk makes it golden and shiny. It’s a simple trick for that perfect color.

Baked Antipasto Squares

Crispy squares loaded with ham, salami, cheeses, and roasted peppers. A fun Italian treat for your guests.

Prep Time
20 mins
Time at the Stove
30 mins
Total Time
50 mins
Recipe by: Alicia

Type of Dish: Appetizers

Skill Level: Beginner Friendly

Style of Cooking: Italian

Makes: 12 Feeds (24 squares)

Good for: ~

Shopping List

Item 01 Two cans of refrigerated crescent roll dough, 8 oz per can.
Item 02 A quarter-pound of sliced salami.
Item 03 A quarter-pound of ham.
Item 04 A quarter-pound of provolone cheese.
Item 05 A quarter-pound of Swiss cheese.
Item 06 One 12 oz jar of roasted red peppers, drained and sliced thin.
Item 07 Three large eggs, whisked.
Item 08 1/4 teaspoon of ground black pepper.
Item 09 1/2 teaspoon of dried oregano.
Item 10 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder.
Item 11 Shredded parmesan cheese for sprinkling over the top.

Let's Cook

Step 01

Set your oven to 350°F (180°C) to preheat, and grab a 9x13-inch baking dish for later.

Step 02

Unroll one can of crescent roll dough, spread it into the bottom of your dish, stretching it to the edges, and pressing seams together to seal them.

Step 03

Start with the salami, then add the ham, and top that off with slices of provolone and Swiss cheese. Think of it like building a delicious puzzle.

Step 04

Place the roasted red peppers on top of the cheese layers.

Step 05

Roll out the second can of crescent roll dough and lay it over the fillings, pinching the edges to lock everything inside.

Step 06

Mix eggs with the black pepper, oregano, and garlic powder in a small bowl, then pour it over the top layer of dough.

Step 07

Generously sprinkle the parmesan cheese as the finishing touch.

Step 08

Bake for around 25–30 minutes, or until the crust is a perfect golden brown.

Cook's Tips

  1. Great for parties, snacks, or brunch spreads.
  2. You can serve it warm or let it cool to room temperature.

Kitchen Gear Needed

  • A 9x13-inch baking dish.

Watch Out For

Your safety matters - check these important notes about ingredients
  • Eggs.
  • Dairy products.
  • Gluten.

Good to Know (Per Serving)

Numbers are approximate - your results may vary based on specific ingredients used
  • Calories per Serving: 320
  • Fat: 22 g
  • Carbs: 18 g
  • Protein: 15 g