Seriously, it really is that simple.  You will be amazed at not only how easy and delicious this platter can be, but the endless possibilities of ingredients is the really fun part.  Other items to add include:

1. Olives–the good ones, not the cocktail ones out of a jar.  Mix it up to include green, black, or other varieties.

2. Artichoke hearts--I really love using the ones that have been marinated in good olive oil and spices.  They are soft, creamy, and are a great counterpoint to the meats and cheeses on the platter.

3. Roasted red peppers–again, the ones that have been marinating in a jar of olive oil are fantastic here.  They provide a nice, peppery punch to any bite.

4. Cheese–you don’t have to stick to mozzarella here.  Experiment with other soft cheeses, like burrata (my absolute favorite), and with Italian hard cheeses that you may not have tried before.  Ask the folks at the local cheese counter in the deli section of your grocery store to steer you toward something new and delicious, like a taleggio, or a wedge of parmesan (flake off pieces instead of shredding or grating it). 

5. Meats–once again, you don’t have to stick only with prosciutto or salamis.  We often grill up spicy Italian sausages and slice them for a quick bite.  Or go for mortadella (like Italian bologna, but much better than what you know as bologna!), spicy coppa ham or a dried bresaola.

6. Mixed nuts–nuts of all kinds go great with an antipasti platter.  The difference in textures, nuttiness, and various oils that come with different varieties make a fantastic compliment to the meats, cheeses, and other items. I am a huge fan of pecans, but walnuts and almonds are great additions as well.

7.  Condiments—mustards, mostardas, jellies and other fruits are perfect for a platter like this.  Mix and match with every bite, and delight your taste buds with the varied textures and flavors.

8.  Wine!–did you think I’d forget this part?  Please!  I love Chianti for this type of nosh.  One of my favorites is Viticchio Chianti Classico Riserva.  If you can’t find this one, ask your local wine shop for a recommendation.  The tannins in this one are light, and the nature of the wine is a perfect pairing for anything you would want to put on an antipasti platter.  Or for sitting outside looking at a beautiful vineyard.  Or sitting on your couch in your sweatpants.  Really, it’s that good.  Decant or let breathe for best results.

I could go on and on here (in fact, I have).  So tell me, what delicious items would YOU add to your platter-of-choice?