Pepperoni rose bites are a fun appetizer for picnics, game days, or holiday parties. They’re quick to assemble and look really cute on a serving platter. They only need three main ingredients, and you can make them ahead and keep them chilled until serving.
This recipe makes about 6–8 servings, but you can adjust the quantity depending on how many people you’re feeding.
How to Make Pepperoni Rose Bites
INGREDIENTS:
- 9 oz thinly sliced pepperoni
- 12 oz marinated mozzarella pearls
- Fresh basil leaves
- Skewers or toothpicks
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Arrange four pepperoni slices in a straight row on a clean cutting board or work surface, slightly overlapping each slice.
2. Fold the entire row in half lengthwise, keeping the slices slightly overlapped. You should have a flat edge along the bottom.
3. Starting at one end, gently roll the folded pepperoni into a tight spiral. You’ll have a small rose shape when you’re done.
4. Slide the pepperoni rose onto a skewer or toothpick, leaving about ½ inch at the bottom.
5. Gently slide a fresh basil leaf onto the skewer, positioning it just beneath the pepperoni rose.
6. Add a marinated mozzarella pearl to the bottom of the skewer.
7. Repeat with the remaining pepperoni, basil, and mozzarella until you’ve made all the skewers.
Serve and Enjoy!
They’re best fresh, but you can also make them ahead and keep them in the fridge. Take them out a few minutes before serving so they’re not quite as cold.
Important Recipe Notes:
- Regular mozzarella pearls are fine if you don’t have marinated ones. Although they’re slightly mild, they taste great.
- Fresh basil can wilt in the fridge. So add the basil and mozzarella right before serving for the best texture and appearance.
- Use sturdy skewers that can hold all three ingredients without bending or breaking.
- Thin slices are easier to fold and roll, so avoid thicker pepperoni for this recipe.
Pepperoni Rose Bites
Ingredients
Method
- Arrange four pepperoni slices in a straight row on a clean cutting board or work surface, slightly overlapping each slice.
- Fold the entire row in half lengthwise, keeping the slices slightly overlapped. You should have a flat edge along the bottom.
- Starting at one end, gently roll the folded pepperoni into a tight spiral. You’ll have a small rose shape when you’re done.
- Slide the pepperoni rose onto a skewer or toothpick, leaving about ½ inch at the bottom.
- Gently slide a fresh basil leaf onto the skewer, positioning it just beneath the pepperoni rose.
- Add a marinated mozzarella pearl to the bottom of the skewer.
- Repeat with the remaining pepperoni, basil, and mozzarella until you’ve made all the skewers.