I think this was in response to the person who listed all the items at TJs but didn't know about meat. So this would just be one component. FWIW I love the grilled olives at TJs. |
just an observation but Columbus brand cured meats are widely available, including Giant (I don't eat meat so have no comment otherwise) |
as a vegetarian, this is where the platter really makes me happy. What makes the olives and peppers really good over the ones that come in a jar (and been in my pantry since covid days)? |
| came looking for suggestions for a no meat antipasto platter. Not opposed to assembling myself but not sure what should be included. I assume Balducci's or Wegmans to start. |
| Also, look at Fresh Market—I’ve gotten other platters from them that were really good. |
I think some supermarkets start with the massive jars but then they make them really really good. I still remember one mix at a place long gone with olives, cherry peppers and little cubes of cheese, magically marinated in something very oregano heavy. So it's worth checking a supermarket olive bar where they might have an olive-whisperer on staff. |
Also Italian store |
maybe buy components a the Italian Store - but their catering platter is very meat heavy |
I bought cherry peppers from Wegmans and they were fire hot - as in too hot for me to eat and I generally like the heat. |
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Does TJ still have the garlic stuffed olives? Those are the bomb.
My ranking would be: Italian store Vace TJs (or maybe wegmans?( World maker plus balducci’s For pescatarians add the good Italian tuna and sardines. For vegetarians, an eggplant caponata along with roasted red peppers, olives, marinated mushrooms. And cheese for everybody. Provolone is good. If you can find a ricotta salata that’s really great. |
Balducci's has ricotta salata and it's insanely yummy |