Cuban Sandwich Skewers

The Cuban Sandwich Skewers are a fun and modern take on the classic Cubano. Packed with flavor from salty salami, savory ham, creamy Swiss cheese, and a zesty dill pickle, these mini skewers are the perfect bite-sized appetizer.

Ideal for low-carb or keto-friendly entertaining, these skewers come together in just minutes and are easily made ahead for stress-free hosting. Whether you’re throwing a party, prepping a game-day platter, or curating a tapas board, these Cuban-inspired bites will be a crowd favorite with minimal effort.

Full recipe:

Ingredients:

• 24 small wooden skewers (4″-6″)

• 24 cubes Swiss Cheese

• 24 slices Salami (small rounds)

• 24 slices Deli Ham (small rounds or folded pieces)

• 24 Petite Dill Pickles (or pickle slices)

• 1/4 cup yellow mustard (for dipping)

Directions:

1. Take one wooden skewer and begin by adding a petite dill pickle.

2. Fold one slice of salami back and forth, then thread it onto the skewer.

3. Do the same with a slice of deli ham.

4. Finish the skewer with a cube of Swiss cheese.

5. Repeat the process with the remaining skewers.

6. Serve chilled with yellow mustard for dipping. Garnish your mustard with a sprinkle of paprika or dried parsley if desired.

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 0 minutes | Total Time: 20 minutes
Kcal: 111 kcal | Servings: 24 skewers

Cuban Sandwich Skewers: The Perfect Party Bite with a Classic Twist

When it comes to hosting, every seasoned entertainer knows that the best appetizers are those that combine flavor, simplicity, and visual appeal. Enter: Cuban Sandwich Skewers—a modern, low-carb twist on the beloved Cuban sandwich, transformed into fun, bite-sized skewers perfect for any gathering. Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together, game day, holiday party, or just need a quick and satisfying snack, these skewers check all the boxes.

In this post, we’re diving deep into what makes this recipe a standout. You’ll learn the background behind the Cuban sandwich, why skewering it is a brilliant twist, health and dietary benefits, pairing ideas, and pro tips on serving and storage. Let’s dig in!

A Bite of History: The Cuban Sandwich

The Cuban sandwich, or “Cubano,” is a hearty, flavor-packed sandwich that originated from Cuban immigrant communities in Florida, particularly in Tampa and Miami. It traditionally features:

• Roast pork
• Ham
• Swiss cheese
• Dill pickles
• Yellow mustard
• Cuban bread (similar to a French baguette but with a softer crust)

This sandwich was historically a convenient and filling lunch for Cuban workers in cigar factories and has evolved into a symbol of Cuban-American cuisine. It’s loved for its savory layers, melty cheese, tangy mustard, and crisp pickles—all pressed together in a grilled sandwich.

From Sandwich to Skewer: The Creative Twist

Now, picture all those rich, bold flavors… without the bread. Cuban Sandwich Skewers are exactly that—a brilliant appetizer idea where the core ingredients are layered on a small skewer: ham, salami, Swiss cheese, and a petite dill pickle. Dipped in classic yellow mustard, every bite is like a mini Cubano experience.

These skewers are:

• Low-carb and keto-friendly
• Perfect for make-ahead entertaining
• Super portable and easy to eat
• Fun and unique for party spreads

They preserve the nostalgic flavor of the Cuban sandwich while catering to modern dietary preferences and party needs.

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the best things about this recipe? It’s only five ingredients and takes about 20 minutes from start to finish. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Salami – Adds richness and depth to the skewer.
• Deli Ham – Preferably smoked or honey ham for flavor.
• Swiss Cheese – Go for block cheese you can cube yourself for better texture and taste.
• Petite Dill Pickles – Their tangy crunch is essential.
• Yellow Mustard – For dipping (or try honey mustard for a sweeter twist).

Optional: Add a sprinkle of paprika or parsley to the mustard bowl for presentation flair!

Why Cuban Sandwich Skewers Are a Must-Make

1. They’re a crowd-pleaser

With familiar, approachable flavors and a balance of savory, salty, tangy, and creamy, these skewers appeal to almost everyone. Even picky eaters will be reaching for more.

2. No oven required

That’s right—no cooking, no heating up the kitchen, and no need to hover over the stove. Just assemble and serve. This makes it ideal for summer gatherings or busy holiday kitchens.

3. Low-carb & keto-friendly

Cutting carbs has never been so satisfying. By ditching the bread but keeping all the fillings, you’re creating a version that fits into low-carb or ketogenic diets, while still tasting indulgent.

4. Make-ahead friendly

These skewers can be assembled 1–2 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator until party time. That means more time to enjoy your guests and less stress in the kitchen.

5. Versatile for presentation

They look elegant on wooden boards, rustic trays, or colorful platters. Add other finger foods or dips around them for a full party spread.

Flavor Profile: Bold & Balanced

Each bite delivers a bold punch of flavor:

• The ham and salami bring savory umami and a touch of smokiness.
• The Swiss cheese adds a creamy, nutty element that balances the saltiness.
• The pickles provide an acidic crunch that cuts through the richness.
• Mustard? It ties it all together with tang and zing.

It’s balanced, satisfying, and leaves you wanting “just one more.”

Serving Tips & Pairings

Here’s how to elevate these little skewers even more:

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve on a wooden charcuterie board with additional dips, olives, or nuts.
• Place skewers upright in a halved hollowed-out cabbage or melon for a fun centerpiece.
• Use decorative toothpicks or mini cocktail skewers for elegance.

Dipping Sauces to Try:

• Yellow mustard (classic)
• Spicy mustard or Dijon
• Honey mustard
• Mustard aioli (for a richer flavor)
• Creamy garlic dip (if you want to break from tradition)

Beverage Pairings:

• Light beer or pilsner
• White wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio
• Sparkling water with citrus
• Rum-based cocktails like mojitos (a nod to the Cuban origin)

Creative Variations

Make this recipe your own with these fun twists:

• Add roasted pork – For a more authentic Cuban sandwich experience.
• Use spicy pickles – To kick up the heat.
• Swap meats – Try turkey or pastrami if you’re out of ham.
• Go vegetarian – Replace meats with marinated tofu cubes or grilled mushrooms.
• Add crunch – Thread on a small cracker or slice of toasted baguette for contrast (no longer low carb, though!).

How to Store and Prep Ahead

These skewers are perfect for prepping ahead and keeping things simple on event day.

• Storage: Store assembled skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Serving cold: Serve chilled or at room temperature—no reheating required.
• Traveling tip: If you’re taking them to a party, store them layered between parchment paper in a sealed container to keep them neat.

Who Will Love This Recipe?

• Busy parents looking for fast appetizers for school or community events.
• Keto or low-carb eaters wanting satisfying finger foods.
• Party planners and hosts who want make-ahead, elegant bites.
• Foodies who enjoy giving classic dishes a fun, creative twist.

Conclusion

Cuban Sandwich Skewers embody everything a great appetizer should be: flavorful, simple, eye-catching, and memorable. They pay homage to the history of Cuban-American cuisine while embracing today’s need for portable, health-conscious, and no-fuss party foods.

So next time you’re planning your menu, whether for a small gathering or a grand celebration, consider these tasty little skewers. They’re proof that sometimes, the best dishes come in the smallest packages.