Save A beautiful appetizer platter featuring a variety of olives, cheeses, and Mediterranean accompaniments, arranged in the shape of a dove to symbolize peace.
I enjoy preparing this platter when hosting friends because it sparks conversation and represents peace beautifully.
Ingredients
- Olives: 100 g green olives, pitted, 100 g black olives, pitted, 100 g Kalamata olives, pitted
- Cheeses: 80 g feta cheese, cubed, 80 g Manchego cheese, cubed
- Fresh Vegetables & Garnishes: 1 small cucumber, sliced into rounds, 6 cherry tomatoes, halved, 1 small red bell pepper, thinly sliced, 1 small bunch fresh parsley
- Accompaniments: 1 small baguette, sliced, 50 g roasted almonds, 50 g stuffed grape leaves (dolmas)
- Decorative Elements: A few edible flowers (optional), 1 small bowl extra virgin olive oil, for dipping
Instructions
- Step 1:
- On a large platter or board, use the olives to outline and fill the shape of a dove (colombe), referencing a simple bird silhouette.
- Step 2:
- Arrange the feta and Manchego cheese cubes near the wings of the dove.
- Step 3:
- Use cucumber slices and cherry tomatoes to accentuate the tail and beak areas, adding color and freshness.
- Step 4:
- Place red bell pepper strips and stuffed grape leaves around the dove as additional decoration and for variety.
- Step 5:
- Add small bunches of parsley and edible flowers for a vibrant, peaceful touch.
- Step 6:
- Serve the baguette slices and roasted almonds in separate small bowls or around the platter.
- Step 7:
- Set the small bowl of olive oil nearby for dipping.
Save This platter always brings my family together during holidays, sharing stories and enjoying the peaceful symbolism.
Required Tools
Large serving platter or wooden board, small bowls for accompaniments, sharp knife, cutting board
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (cheese), gluten (baguette), and tree nuts (almonds). For gluten-free, substitute gluten-free bread.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 220, Total Fat: 14 g, Carbohydrates: 15 g, Protein: 7 g per serving
Save Enjoy crafting this peaceful and delicious platter that delights both eyes and taste buds.
Recipe FAQ
- → What types of olives are best for this platter?
Use a mix of green, black, and Kalamata olives, all pitted, to provide varied flavors and textures that balance the creamy cheeses and fresh vegetables.
- → Can the cheeses be substituted for dietary needs?
Yes, vegan feta or marinated tofu can replace traditional cheeses to accommodate plant-based diets without compromising taste.
- → How should the platter be arranged to resemble a dove?
Outline a simple bird silhouette on the large board with olives, then place cheese cubes near the wings and arrange vegetables to suggest tail and beak features.
- → What accompaniments pair well with this appetizer?
Baguette slices, roasted almonds, and stuffed grape leaves (dolmas) add texture and traditional Mediterranean flavors, best served alongside extra virgin olive oil for dipping.
- → Are there suggestions for additional flavor enhancements?
Adding marinated artichoke hearts or sun-dried tomatoes can intensify the flavors and introduce new taste dimensions.