Save 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 pine tree wreath is a favorite at our holiday parties and always impresses guests with its festive look and delicious flavors
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 Our family gathers around this cheese and olive wreath every holiday season, sharing stories and laughter as we enjoy this delightful appetizer
Required Tools
Large round serving platter Small knife (for cutting cheese and veggies) Serving tongs or toothpicks
Allergen Information
Contains dairy 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 This olive wreath is not only a tasty treat but also a visually stunning centerpiece for any festive occasion
Recipe FAQ
- → What types of cheeses work best for this wreath?
Sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and feta offer a balanced combination of flavors and textures, but gouda, havarti, or pepper jack are great alternatives.
- → Can I make this wreath vegan-friendly?
Yes, substitute the cheeses with plant-based alternatives and use only olives and fresh vegetables for the arrangement.
- → How should the olives be prepared before assembling?
Use pitted olives for easy eating, selecting a mix like green, Kalamata, and black to provide color and flavor contrast.
- → What is the best way to maintain the pine tree shape?
Arrange fresh rosemary sprigs in a circular base to mimic pine needles and layer olives and cheese cubes carefully to form branches and fullness.
- → What serving accompaniments pair well with this wreath?
Serve with crackers or fresh baguette slices. It also pairs nicely with crisp white wine or sparkling prosecco to complement the flavors.
- → Can additional ingredients be added to enhance flavor?
Marinated artichoke hearts or roasted peppers can be added for extra flavor and variety within the wreath.