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.
This cheese and olive wreath became our holiday favorite after I first served it at a family gathering it always impresses guests.
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 Making this wreath always brings my family together we enjoy assembling it and sharing stories.
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 This olive and cheese wreath is a delightful centerpiece and appetizer for any holiday celebration.
Common Recipe Questions
- → What cheeses work best for the wreath?
Sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and feta provide a balanced mix of flavors and textures, but gouda, havarti, or pepper jack are great alternatives.
- → How can I make the wreath vegan-friendly?
Use plant-based cheeses and keep the olives, fresh veggies, and garnishes to maintain texture and taste without dairy.
- → Can I prepare the wreath in advance?
It's best assembled shortly before serving to preserve the freshness of olives and crispness of vegetables.
- → What garnishes enhance the pine tree appearance?
Fresh rosemary sprigs mimic pine needles, while cherry tomatoes and diced red bell pepper resemble colorful ornaments.
- → Are there serving suggestions to pair with the wreath?
Serve with crackers or baguette slices, and pair with crisp white wine or sparkling prosecco for a festive touch.