Save to Pins A festive, savory appetizer featuring a vibrant arrangement of marinated olives and assorted cheeses, artfully shaped into a pine tree wreath&mdashperfect for holiday gatherings.
This recipe has become my go-to appetizer during festive seasons because it looks stunning and tastes amazing.
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 Pins My family loves gathering around this wreath at our holiday parties, sparking conversations and smiles before the meal even starts.
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.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: 210 calories, 15 g total fat, 5 g carbohydrates, 10 g protein
Save to Pins This olive wreath is a simple yet stunning appetizer that elevates any holiday gathering.
Questions & Answers
- → What types of cheese work best for the wreath?
Sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and feta provide a flavorful mix, but gouda, havarti, or pepper jack can be great alternatives.
- → Can this be adapted for vegan diets?
Yes, use plant-based cheeses and stick to olives and vegetables for a vegan-friendly version.
- → How can I keep the wreath fresh for longer?
Prepare close to serving time and keep refrigerated, covering with plastic wrap to maintain freshness.
- → What garnishes enhance the appearance of the wreath?
Cherry tomatoes and diced red bell peppers add festive color resembling ornaments on the pine tree.
- → What should I serve alongside the wreath?
Crackers or fresh baguette slices complement the textures and flavors beautifully.
- → Can additional ingredients be added for flavor?
Marinated artichoke hearts or roasted peppers add depth and richness to the arrangement.