Save to Pinterest 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.
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.
Save to Pinterest Required Tools
Large round serving platter , Small knife (for cutting cheese and veggies) , Serving tongs or toothpicks
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (cheese). , May contain sulfites (in marinated olives). , Gluten present if served with regular bread crackers choose gluten-free options if needed. , Always check ingredient labels for allergens.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 210 , Total Fat: 15 g , Carbohydrates: 5 g , Protein: 10 g
Save to Pinterest Enjoy this festive pine tree olive wreath as a centerpiece for your holiday table to impress guests with minimal effort.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → What cheeses work best for this arrangement?
Sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and feta offer a balanced combination of flavors and textures, but gouda, havarti, or pepper jack can be good alternatives.
- → Are there options for dietary restrictions?
Yes, using plant-based cheeses and olives can make this suitable for vegan diets, while selecting gluten-free crackers ensures a gluten-free option.
- → How can I make the wreath look festive?
Arrange ingredients in layers to mimic pine branches, use cucumber slices for texture, and add cherry tomatoes and diced red bell pepper as ornament-like accents.
- → Can I prepare this ahead of time?
It’s best assembled shortly before serving to maintain freshness and the crispness of the garnishes.
- → What beverages pair well with this platter?
A crisp white wine or sparkling prosecco complements the savory cheeses and salty olives beautifully.