Pin It 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.
This recipe makes holidays extra special with a visually stunning and tasty appetizer that everyone loves.
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 It This appetizer brings joy to our family gatherings and sparks conversations every time I prepare it.
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 or 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
Pin It This olive and cheese wreath is the perfect starter to impress guests and kick off any celebration.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → What types of cheeses work best for this wreath?
Sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and feta cheeses provide varied textures and flavors, but gouda, havarti, or pepper jack can be great alternatives to suit your taste.
- → Can I prepare this wreath in advance?
Yes, you can assemble the wreath a few hours before serving. Cover and refrigerate to keep ingredients fresh, then add delicate garnishes just before guests arrive.
- → How can I make this suitable for vegan preferences?
Substitute all cheeses with plant-based alternatives and choose olives marinated without animal products to maintain the wreath's texture and flavor profile.
- → What garnishes enhance the wreath's appearance?
Fresh rosemary sprigs create a pine needle effect. Cherry tomatoes and diced red bell peppers add pops of bright color, mimicking festive ornaments.
- → What beverages pair well with this appetizer?
A crisp white wine or sparkling prosecco complement the savory and fresh notes of the olives, cheeses, and herbs beautifully.