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 olive wreath was a delightful centerpiece at our family holiday party and received many compliments.
Ingredients
- Sharp cheddar cheese: 150 g cubed
- Mozzarella cheese: 150 g cubed
- Feta cheese: 100 g cubed
- Green olives: 100 g pitted
- Kalamata olives: 100 g pitted
- Black olives: 100 g pitted
- Fresh rosemary sprigs: 1 small bunch
- Cherry tomatoes: 8-10
- Red bell pepper: 1 small diced for ornaments
- Cucumber: 1 sliced to form tree branches
- Mini mozzarella balls: 50 g optional
- Crackers or 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.
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Making this recipe has become a cherished tradition during the holidays when family gathers to prepare and enjoy it together.
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 per serving
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This cheese and olive olive wreath brings festivity and flavor to any occasion making it an unforgettable appetizer.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → What cheeses work best for this dish?
Sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and feta provide a balance of flavors and textures, but gouda, havarti, or pepper jack can also be used.
- → Can the olives be substituted or varied?
Yes, any combination of marinated green, Kalamata, or black olives works well to provide a variety of flavors.
- → How can I make this suitable for vegans?
Use plant-based cheeses and stick to olives and fresh vegetables for a vegan-friendly variation.
- → What is the best way to serve the pine wreath?
Arrange it on a large round platter and offer crackers or fresh baguette slices on the side for easy serving.
- → Can I prepare this in advance?
It's best served fresh, but you can assemble it a few hours ahead and keep refrigerated until serving.
- → What garnishes enhance the wreath’s festive look?
Cherry tomatoes, diced red bell peppers, and fresh rosemary sprigs add vibrant colors and mimic holiday decorations.