Description
Mediterranean magic unfolds with these irresistible olives and cheese delights, blending tangy flavors and rich textures. Quick and easy appetizers promise a delectable journey through southern European culinary traditions you’ll savor with every delightful bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Cheese:
- 1 cup cubed sharp cheddar
- 1 cup cubed Gouda or Havarti
- ½ cup crumbled feta or small mozzarella balls (bocconcini)
- ¼ cup Parmesan shards
Olives and Additional Ingredients:
- 1 cup mixed olives (green, black, Kalamata, or Castelvetrano)
- ¼ cup marinated artichoke hearts
- ¼ cup roasted red peppers, sliced
Herbs and Seasonings:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
Garnish and Serving:
- Fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme, or parsley)
- Crackers, baguette slices, or breadsticks
Instructions
- Prepare the olive infusion by blending mixed olives with fragrant olive oil, zesty lemon zest, aromatic rosemary, and delicate thyme in a mixing vessel. Allow the olives to luxuriate in these vibrant flavors for a minimum of 15 minutes, enabling complete flavor absorption.
- Select an elegant serving board or platter and strategically position various cheese varieties, creating visually appealing groupings that showcase their unique textures and colors.
- Transfer the richly marinated olives into a complementary small bowl or artfully distribute them across the platter’s surface, ensuring an inviting and balanced presentation.
- Enhance the Mediterranean-inspired landscape by introducing complementary elements such as tender marinated artichoke hearts and roasted red peppers, which will add depth and complexity to the culinary tableau.
- Complete the composition by delicately scattering fresh herb sprigs across the platter, providing a vibrant and aromatic finishing touch that elevates the entire sensory experience.
- Accompany the assembled platter with a selection of crisp crackers or rustic bread, inviting guests to create their own personalized flavor combinations.
Notes
- Elevate olive marination by using high-quality extra virgin olive oil for richer, more complex flavor profiles.
- Experiment with different herb combinations like oregano or za’atar to create unique Mediterranean-inspired taste experiences.
- Allow olives to reach room temperature before serving to maximize their aromatic properties and enhance overall taste sensation.
- Select cheeses with varying textures and milk types (cow, goat, sheep) to create a diverse and interesting platter that appeals to different palates.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Snacks
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 700 mg
- Fat: 25 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 8 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 15 g
- Cholesterol: 50 mg