Pin A beautiful appetizer platter featuring a variety of olives, cheeses, and Mediterranean accompaniments, arranged in the shape of a dove to symbolize peace.
This platter has become a weekend favorite for me and my friends, sparking conversations about peace and culture.
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
- Shape the Dove:
- On a large platter or board, use the olives to outline and fill the shape of a dove (colombe), referencing a simple bird silhouette.
- Arrange Cheeses:
- Arrange the feta and Manchego cheese cubes near the wings of the dove.
- Add Vegetables:
- Use cucumber slices and cherry tomatoes to accentuate the tail and beak areas, adding color and freshness.
- Decorate:
- Place red bell pepper strips and stuffed grape leaves around the dove as additional decoration and for variety.
- Add Garnishes:
- Add small bunches of parsley and edible flowers for a vibrant, peaceful touch.
- Serve Accompaniments:
- Serve the baguette slices and roasted almonds in separate small bowls or around the platter.
- Final Touch:
- Set the small bowl of olive oil nearby for dipping.
Pin Sharing this platter brings family and friends together, creating moments of joy and peace at the table.
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. Always check ingredient labels for hidden allergens.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 220, Total Fat: 14 g, Carbohydrates: 15 g, Protein: 7 g per serving
Pin This platter is perfect for any occasion where you want to impress with minimal effort.
Recipe FAQ
- → What types of olives work best for this platter?
Using a mix of green, black, and Kalamata olives provides a balanced variety of flavors and colors that complement the platter visually and taste-wise.
- → How can I make this platter vegan-friendly?
Substitute the feta and Manchego cheeses with vegan alternatives like marinated tofu or plant-based cheese to maintain texture and richness.
- → What accompaniments pair well with this olive platter?
Fresh vegetables like cucumbers and cherry tomatoes add brightness, while roasted almonds and stuffed grape leaves provide additional texture and authentic Mediterranean flavors.
- → Is there a recommended way to serve the olive oil for dipping?
Serve extra virgin olive oil in a small bowl alongside the baguette slices to allow guests to dip and enjoy enhanced flavors.
- → Can I prepare this platter ahead of time?
Yes, the olives, cheeses, and accompaniments can be arranged shortly before serving to keep everything fresh and vibrant.