Mini Cubano Sandwich Skewers

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Introduction

Mini Cubano Sandwich Skewers are a playful, bite-sized version of the iconic Cuban sandwich, packed with all the bold, flavorful ingredients we love. Picture layers of succulent roasted pork, savory ham, melted Swiss cheese, tangy pickles, and a dollop of mustard, all threaded onto skewers for an easy, portable appetizer or snack. These skewers offer the perfect balance of savory, zesty, and satisfying flavors, making them an ideal choice for any occasion.

The first time I made these skewers, I was impressed by how simple it was to assemble such a delicious, crowd-pleasing treat. Assembling each skewer felt like building a mini masterpiece, and the aroma of the melting cheese and sizzling pork had everyone eager to dive in. When they were served, they disappeared in minutes—a true sign of success!

What I love most about Mini Cubano Sandwich Skewers is their versatility. You can serve them as a fun appetizer for parties, a light dinner, or even as a creative snack for casual get-togethers. For a little extra kick, try adding a slice of jalapeño or a drizzle of spicy mustard. No matter how you serve them, these skewers will bring the delicious flavors of a Cubano sandwich to life in a way that’s fun, easy, and guaranteed to be a hit with your guests.

Perfect for:

  • Party appetizers
  • Game day snacks
  • Holiday gatherings
  • Backyard barbecues
  • Sandwich lovers

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why Mini Cubano Sandwich Skewers will become your new favorite finger food:

  • Bold Cuban Flavors: These skewers pack the classic Cuban sandwich flavors into a fun, easy-to-eat form.
  • Easy to Prepare: They come together quickly and can be made ahead for convenience.
  • Customizable: You can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your taste, whether you prefer more pickles or extra cheese.
  • Great for Sharing: Serve them as a crowd-pleasing appetizer or snack, perfect for any gathering.
  • Perfect for Meal Prep: Make these skewers ahead of time, and just heat them up before serving for a stress-free meal.

Preparation and Cooking Time

  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Preparation Time: 10 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 15 minutes
  • Servings: 4-6 servings
  • Calories per serving: Approximately 200-250 calories
  • Key Nutrients: Protein: 15g, Carbs: 15g, Fat: 12g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Mini Cubano Sandwich Skewers:

  • 1 lb pork tenderloin or cooked pulled pork
  • 12 oz deli ham, sliced
  • 8 oz Swiss cheese, sliced
  • 1 cup dill pickle slices
  • 2 tablespoons yellow mustard
  • 12 mini slider rolls or Cuban bread (cut into small squares)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • Optional: Fresh parsley, for garnish

Ingredient Highlights

  • Pork Tenderloin or Pulled Pork: Provides a savory, tender base for the Cubano skewers.
  • Deli Ham: Adds a layer of salty, rich flavor, essential for the sandwich’s taste.
  • Swiss Cheese: Melts beautifully and adds a mild, creamy flavor that balances the salty meats.
  • Pickles: Dill pickles add a tangy crunch, giving the skewers that authentic Cubano kick.
  • Slider Rolls or Cuban Bread: The bread serves as the foundation for the sandwich, absorbing all the flavors and giving texture to the skewer.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients:

  1. Cook the Pork: If using pork tenderloin, roast it in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Slice into thin strips. If using pulled pork, simply heat it through and shred it.
  2. Slice the Ham and Cheese: Cut the deli ham into smaller pieces that will fit the skewer, and slice the Swiss cheese into small squares to fit on the skewer.
  3. Prepare the Pickles: Slice the pickles into thin rounds, ensuring they are small enough to fit on the skewers.
  4. Cut the Bread: Slice the mini slider rolls or Cuban bread into small squares, approximately the size of a regular sandwich bite.

Assemble the Skewers:

  1. Layer the Ingredients: On each skewer, thread the ingredients in this order: a piece of bread, a slice of ham, a slice of cheese, a piece of pork, a slice of pickle, and then another piece of bread. Repeat this process for all skewers.

Cook the Skewers:

  1. Heat the Pan: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add olive oil and butter. Once the pan is hot, place the skewers in the skillet, making sure not to overcrowd the pan.
  2. Grill the Skewers: Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the bread is golden brown and crispy, and the cheese has melted. Turn the skewers gently using tongs to ensure all sides are evenly cooked.
  3. Optional Pressing: For a more authentic Cuban touch, you can gently press the skewers down with a spatula while cooking to help the sandwich ingredients meld together.

Serve the Skewers:

  1. Serve and Garnish: Remove from the skillet and place the skewers on a serving platter. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

How to Serve

  • As a Party Appetizer: Arrange the skewers on a large platter and serve with extra mustard for dipping.
  • With Sides: Pair with a side of fries, potato salad, or coleslaw for a complete meal.
  • For Meal Prep: These skewers can be served warm or cold, making them perfect for lunchboxes or picnics.
  • With Dipping Sauce: Serve with spicy mustard, garlic aioli, or a Cuban-style sauce for extra flavor.
  • Mini Sandwiches: Serve the skewers with extra rolls on the side for guests to make their own sandwiches.

Additional Tips

  • Use a Grill Pan: For a more authentic grilled flavor, use a grill pan to cook the skewers, giving them those perfect grill marks.
  • Preheat the Skillet: Make sure the skillet is hot before adding the skewers, as this ensures the bread crisps up quickly.
  • Press the Skewers Gently: Pressing the skewers while cooking helps the cheese melt into the meat and bread, making it more cohesive.
  • Customize the Skewers: Add other toppings like roasted peppers or olives for extra flavor variations.

Recipe Variations

  1. Spicy Cubano Skewers: Add a few slices of jalapeño or a drizzle of spicy sauce for a kick.
  2. Vegetarian Cubano Skewers: Use grilled vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers in place of pork and ham.
  3. BBQ Cubano Skewers: Swap out the mustard for barbecue sauce for a smoky twist.
  4. Chicken Cubano Skewers: Use grilled or roasted chicken breast instead of pork for a lighter version.
  5. Cheese Lover’s Cubano Skewers: Add an extra layer of cheese, like provolone, for a cheesier bite.
  6. Sweet Cubano Skewers: Add a drizzle of honey or a few slices of pineapple for a sweet twist.
  7. Cuban Pork Skewers: Make the skewers with only pork and pickles, leaving out the other ingredients for a more focused flavor.
  8. Smoky Chipotle Cubano Skewers: Toss the pork in chipotle seasoning or sauce for a smoky depth.
  9. Cuban Veggie Skewers: Skip the meat entirely and focus on vegetables and cheese for a vegetarian-friendly skewer.
  10. Cuban Ropa Vieja Skewers: Replace the pork with shredded beef for a traditional Ropa Vieja-inspired flavor.

Freezing and Storage

  • Freezing: Assemble the skewers ahead of time and freeze them before cooking. Once frozen, transfer to a zip-top bag and store for up to 3 months. Cook from frozen by following the regular cooking instructions.
  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave before serving.

Special Equipment

  • Skewers or Toothpicks – Essential for holding the mini sandwiches together. Use decorative picks for a fun presentation.
  • Bread Knife – A sharp serrated knife helps slice small pieces of Cuban bread or baguette evenly.
  • Grill Pan or Panini Press – Adds those classic Cubano grill marks and enhances the crispy texture of the bread.
  • Meat Slicer or Sharp Chef’s Knife – Ensures thin, even slices of ham and pork for the perfect bite-sized pieces.
  • Cutting Board – Provides a stable surface for slicing bread, cheese, and meats neatly.
  • Small Pastry Brush – Useful for evenly spreading mustard or butter on the bread before grilling.
  • Cheese Slicer or Grater – Helps achieve thin slices of Swiss cheese for the perfect melt.
  • Small Tongs – Makes assembling the skewers easier and keeps hands clean.
  • Serving Platter or Board – A stylish way to arrange and present your skewers for guests.
  • Basting Brush – Ideal for brushing melted butter onto the bread for that crispy, golden finish.

FAQ

  1. Can I use a different type of bread?
    Yes, you can use any soft bread, like baguette or dinner rolls, if mini Cuban bread isn’t available.
  2. Can I make these ahead of time?
    Yes, you can assemble the skewers and refrigerate them until ready to cook.
  3. Can I use leftover pork for this recipe?
    Absolutely! Leftover pulled pork works perfectly for these skewers.
  4. Can I make them in the oven instead of the skillet?
    Yes, bake the assembled skewers at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
  5. Can I use a different cheese?
    Yes, you can use provolone, mozzarella, or cheddar for a different flavor profile.

Conclusion

Mini Cubano Sandwich Skewers are a delicious, bite-sized twist on the classic Cuban sandwich. These flavorful skewers are packed with tender pork, savory ham, melted Swiss cheese, tangy pickles, and zesty mustard, making them a guaranteed hit at any gathering. Whether served as a snack, appetizer, or part of a larger meal, these skewers bring Cuban-inspired flavors in a fun, easy-to-eat format.

Perfect for parties, casual weeknight meals, or special occasions, Mini Cubano Sandwich Skewers combine all the best elements of a Cubano in one convenient bite. Their vibrant, bold flavors are sure to impress, and their bite-sized nature makes them perfect for sharing.

I can’t wait to see how you make these Mini Cubano Sandwich Skewers your own! Snap a photo and tag me on Instagram—I’d love to see your take on this tasty treat. Don’t forget to share your favorite twists in the comments. Happy cooking!

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