How many Utah folks are out there? I’m sure some of you are from here and I’m also sure some of you have some amazing plans for the Pioneer Day this Friday. It’s quite a day and I know lots of people having barbecues and parties. I brought these Italian tortellini skewers to our Wine Club’s 4th of July party and they were a hit. They would be great to bring to a Pioneer Day celebrations this weekend.

I’m originally from California, so Pioneer Day was all new to me. For those of you outside of Utah, Pioneer Day celebrates the entry of Brigham Young and the first group of Mormon pioneers into the Salt Lake Valley on July 24, 1847, where the Latter-day Saints settled after being forced from other locations in the eastern United States. On this day, Utah sees it’s share of parades, and other activities and a lot of folks have the day off. There is even a “Days of 47” rodeo that I have attended in the past. There is fun for the whole family.

And let’s not forget fireworks. It seems like there is celebrating one thing after another every night in July. Don’t get me wrong, I love a good fireworks display. It’s my dogs that don’t and they wind up barking a lot. Poor things!

Whether you’re celebrating the 4th, 24th or just having a fun summer barbecue, these tortellini skewers are easy to make and so good. I’m taking them to my next party.

______________________________

Italian Tortellini Skewers with Balsamic Drizzle

Print recipe

• Print with main photo
• Print text only

Serves	15
Prep time	2 hours, 15 minutes
Allergy	Milk
Meal type	Appetizer
Occasion	Casual Party

Ingredients

• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
• 7-8 Large fresh basil leaves (chopped)
• 5-7 sun-dried tomatoes (chopped)
• 15 slices salami
• 15 yellow sunburst tomatoes
• 15 red cherry tomatoes
• 15 canned artichoke hearts
• 15 Large black olives
• 15 Large green olives
• 5oz mozzarella cheese (cut to make 15 cubes)
• 45 spinach & regular tortellini (cooked according to package directions)

Directions

Step 1

Mix the olive oil, balsamic, basil and sun dried tomatoes in a bowl. Chill for at least two hours.

Step 2

Assemble the skewers. Start with a green olive then a tortellini, red tomato, artichoke heart, tortellini, cheese, salami, yellow tomato, tortellini, and black olive. Repeat for all skewers.

Step 3

Drizzle the balsamic mix over the tortellini. Serve chilled.

______________________________

The tortellini skewers dissappeared in a snap at our Wine Club 4th of July event, so next time I’ll have to make a double batch. What I love about them is the easy assembly. With the exception of the tortellini, there is no cooking required. Keeps the kitchen nice and cool.

Want more appetizer ideas for your next party? Follow my Pinterest board below.

Follow Lori’s Culinary’s board Appetizers & Little Bites on Pinterest.

Are you in Utah? How do you celebrate the 24th?

I am now in the App Store! If you have an apple device, go to your App Store, search “Lori’s Culinary Creations” and download the app for free.