Save The Olive and Cherry Tomato Garland Board is a stunning Mediterranean-inspired appetizer that brings color, flavor, and freshness to your table. This vibrant platter pairs juicy cherry tomatoes, savory olives, creamy cheeses, and aromatic herbs arranged in a festive garland shape, making it both a feast for the eyes and the palate. Perfectly suited for last-minute entertaining, it requires no cooking, just artful assembly.
Save This garland board combines a harmonious balance of textures and tastes—from the juicy burst of cherry tomatoes to the briny olives and creamy mozzarella. Fresh rosemary and basil add vibrant color and aroma, while optional touches like toasted pine nuts and balsamic glaze elevate it further. Enjoy this Mediterranean delight any time you want to brighten up your snacks or appetizers.
Ingredients
- Fresh Produce
- 2 cups mixed cherry tomatoes (red, yellow, or orange), whole or halved
- 1 cup seedless green grapes (optional, for added sweetness)
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves
- 1 cup fresh rosemary sprigs (for garnish)
- Olives
- 1 cup pitted Kalamata olives
- 1 cup pitted green Castelvetrano olives
- Cheese
- 200 g fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine)
- 100 g feta cheese, cubed
- Accompaniments
- 1/2 cup marinated artichoke hearts, quartered
- 1/2 cup roasted red peppers, sliced
- 1/2 cup toasted pine nuts (optional)
- Crusty bread slices or gluten-free crackers, for serving
- Dressing (optional)
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tbsp balsamic glaze
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- 1. Arrange rosemary base
- Arrange the rosemary sprigs in a large circular wreath shape on a platter or wooden board to form the base of your garland.
- 2. Layer ingredients
- Layer cherry tomatoes, mixed olives, mozzarella balls, feta cubes, grapes (if using), artichoke hearts, and roasted red peppers over the rosemary, alternating colors and shapes for a festive look.
- 3. Add basil
- Tuck fresh basil leaves throughout the garland for aroma and color.
- 4. Add pine nuts
- Sprinkle the pine nuts over the top, if using.
- 5. Dress the garland
- Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic glaze just before serving. Finish with a grind of black pepper.
- 6. Serve
- Serve with slices of crusty bread or gluten-free crackers on the side.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
Create an even more impressive display by carefully selecting multicolored cherry tomatoes and arranging the elements to alternate hues and textures. Use fresh herbs generously for visual appeal and fragrant notes. For a simpler serving, prepare individual portions on small plates with a mini rosemary sprig garnish.
Varianten und Anpassungen
To make this garland vegan, simply omit the mozzarella and feta or replace with plant-based cheese alternatives. For a meaty twist, add thinly sliced prosciutto or salami nestled among the ingredients. You can swap pine nuts for toasted walnuts or almonds for extra crunch and varied flavor.
Serviervorschläge
Pair this Olive and Cherry Tomato Garland Board with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Grigio to complement the fresh and savory flavors. Serve alongside a selection of gluten-free crackers or crusty bread slices for a complete appetizer experience.
Save This Olive and Cherry Tomato Garland Board is as delightful to look at as it is to eat. With its mix of vibrant colors, fresh ingredients, and effortless assembly, it’s a crowd-pleaser that brings a touch of Mediterranean sunshine to any occasion.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I prepare the garland in advance?
Yes, assemble the garland shortly before serving to keep fresh herbs vibrant and cheeses at their best texture.
- → What alternatives can I use for pine nuts?
Toasted walnuts or almonds make excellent crunchy substitutes without overpowering the flavors.
- → Is there a vegan option for the cheese elements?
Use plant-based cheese alternatives or omit cheeses entirely to maintain the fresh, colorful appeal.
- → What wine pairs well with this garland board?
Crisp whites like Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Grigio complement the vibrant flavors wonderfully.
- → How can I add a non-vegetarian touch?
Thinly sliced prosciutto or salami tastes great layered alongside the fresh ingredients for added richness.