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 pine tree shaped olive wreath has been a highlight at our family holiday parties, bringing smiles and compliments every time.
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 Gathering around this wreath during the holidays always creates warm, joyful family moments and shared memories.
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 wreath offers a delightful combination of flavors and festive presentation that will impress your guests.
Ask About This Recipe
- → What cheeses work best for this wreath?
Sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and feta provide a nice balance of textures and flavors, but gouda, havarti, or pepper jack can be great alternatives.
- → How can I make this wreath vegan-friendly?
Replace dairy cheeses with plant-based alternatives and focus on olives and fresh veggies to maintain the wreath’s festive look and taste.
- → What is the best way to arrange the wreath?
Use rosemary sprigs to form the base, then alternate olives and cheese cubes around and inside to create a pine tree shape. Add cucumber slices and mini mozzarella for branch details.
- → Can I prepare the wreath in advance?
Yes, assemble shortly before serving and keep it covered in the refrigerator to maintain freshness and vibrant colors.
- → What pairings complement this appetizer?
A crisp white wine or sparkling prosecco pairs beautifully, enhancing the savory and fresh flavors of the cheeses and olives.