Pin A festive, savory appetizer featuring a vibrant arrangement of marinated olives and assorted cheeses, artfully shaped into a pine tree wreath—perfect for holiday gatherings.
Pairs beautifully with a crisp white wine or sparkling prosecco
Ingredients
- Cheese Selection: 150 g sharp cheddar cheese, cubed 150 g mozzarella cheese, cubed 100 g feta cheese, cubed
- Olives: 100 g green olives, pitted 100 g Kalamata olives, pitted 100 g black olives, pitted
- Fresh Elements & Garnishes: 1 small bunch fresh rosemary sprigs 8 10 cherry tomatoes 1 small red bell pepper, diced (for ornaments) 1 cucumber, sliced (to form tree branches)
- Extras (optional): 50 g mini mozzarella balls Crackers or fresh baguette slices, for serving
Instructions
- Step 1:
- On a large round platter, arrange rosemary sprigs in a circular shape to form the base of the wreath and the pine needles.
- Step 2:
- Create the pine tree shape by layering olives and cheese cubes in alternating sections around and within the wreath, mimicking the fullness and branches of a pine tree.
- Step 3:
- Tuck cucumber slices and mini mozzarella balls among the olives and cheeses for added color and branch effect.
- Step 4:
- Decorate with cherry tomatoes and diced red bell pepper to resemble festive ornaments.
- Step 5:
- For a finishing touch, you can drizzle a little olive oil and sprinkle cracked black pepper over the wreath.
- Step 6:
- Serve immediately with crackers or baguette slices on the side.
Pin Always check ingredient labels for allergens
Required Tools
Large round serving platter Small knife (for cutting cheese and veggies) Serving tongs or toothpicks
Nutritional Information
Calories: 210 Total Fat: 15 g Carbohydrates: 5 g Protein: 10 g
Category & Cuisine
Category: Appetizer Difficulty: Easy Cuisine: Mediterranean Yield: 8 servings Diet: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free (if gluten-free cheeses/crackers are used)
Pin This appetizer is easy to assemble and visually stunning for holiday parties
Recipe Q&A
- → What types of cheeses work well in this wreath?
Sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and feta provide a balance of flavors and textures. You can substitute with gouda, havarti, or pepper jack for variety.
- → Can I prepare this arrangement ahead of time?
Yes, assemble shortly before serving to maintain freshness. Cover and refrigerate if made earlier, but add fresh garnishes just before presenting.
- → How do I keep the wreath stable on the platter?
Arrange rosemary sprigs as a base for structure, place olives and cheeses closely together, and use cucumber slices and mini mozzarella balls to fill gaps and add support.
- → Are there vegan or gluten-free options available?
Use plant-based cheeses for a vegan twist and select gluten-free crackers or bread to accommodate dietary needs.
- → What pairs well as accompaniments for this platter?
Crackers, fresh baguette slices, crisp white wine, or sparkling prosecco enhance the flavors and make for enjoyable sharing.
- → How can I add extra flavor to the wreath?
Incorporate marinated artichoke hearts, roasted peppers, or drizzle a bit of olive oil and cracked black pepper on top before serving.