Olives and Cheese
A simple, crowd-pleasing appetizer that combines the briny, savory flavor of olives with the creamy richness of cheese. Perfect for holiday parties, wine nights, or casual gatherings. It’s easy to prepare and endlessly customizable to suit your taste.
Ingredients
For the olives:
- 1 cup mixed olives green, black, Kalamata, or Castelvetrano
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- 1 tsp fresh rosemary finely chopped
- 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves
For the cheese:
- 1/2 cup cubed feta
- 1/2 cup cubed Manchego
- 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese
- 1/2 cup cubed cheddar
- 1/2 cup brie cut into wedges
- 1/2 cup mozzarella balls
Optional additions:
- 1 tbsp cracked black pepper
- 1 tbsp red pepper flakes
- 1/2 cup marinated artichoke hearts
- 1/4 cup roasted red peppers sliced
For garnish and serving:
- Fresh herbs rosemary, thyme, or parsley
- 1-2 tbsp olive oil optional for drizzling
- Crackers breadsticks, or sliced baguette
Instructions
Prepare the Olives:
- Use a mix of olives for variety in flavor and color. Rinse and drain brine-packed olives. Optionally, marinate with olive oil, garlic, and herbs if desired.
Prepare the Cheese:
- Cut hard cheeses like cheddar and manchego into cubes or slices. Soft cheeses like goat cheese and brie can be served whole or placed in small serving bowls. For mozzarella balls, drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with herbs.
Assemble the Platter:
- Arrange the olives and cheeses on a large serving platter, grouping similar types together for a visually appealing display.
Garnish & Serve:
- Garnish with fresh herbs, cracked black pepper, or red pepper flakes. Include breadsticks, crackers, or sliced bread for pairing.
Nutrition
Serving: 1servingsCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 5gProtein: 8gFat: 15g
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