Olives and Cheese

Olives and Cheese is a classic, simple, and crowd-pleasing appetizer that effortlessly combines the briny, savory flavor of olives with the creamy richness of cheese. This pairing is perfect for holiday parties, wine nights, or casual gatherings. It’s easy to prepare and endlessly customizable to suit your taste and occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: No cooking required, just assemble and serve.
• Elegant and Versatile: Works as a snack, appetizer, or part of a larger charcuterie spread.
• Customizable: Choose your favorite olives and cheese combinations.
• Perfect Pairing: Complements wine, cocktails, and other appetizers beautifully.
• Great for Sharing: A simple way to delight guests with minimal effort.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• A variety of olives (Kalamata, Castelvetrano, black, green, or marinated)
• Cheese selection (feta, manchego, goat cheese, cheddar, brie, or mozzarella balls)
• Olive oil (optional for marinated olives)
• Fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or parsley (optional garnish)
• Cracked black pepper or red pepper flakes (optional)
• Breadsticks, crackers, or crusty bread (optional for serving)

Directions

1. Select and Prepare Olives:
   • Use a mix of olives for variety in flavor and color. Rinse and drain brine-packed olives. Marinate with olive oil, garlic, and herbs if desired.
2. Prepare the Cheese:
   • Cut hard cheeses into cubes or slices. Soft cheeses can be left whole or placed in small serving bowls. For mozzarella balls, drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with herbs.
3. Assemble the Platter:
   • Arrange the olives and cheese on a large serving platter. Group similar types together for a visually appealing display.
4. Garnish and Serve:
   • Garnish with fresh herbs, cracked black pepper, or red pepper flakes for a finishing touch. Include breadsticks, crackers, or sliced bread for pairing.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4–6 as an appetizer
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 10 minutes

Variations

• Mediterranean Style: Pair olives with feta cheese and serve with pita bread or hummus.
• Spicy Kick: Add marinated spicy olives or sprinkle chili flakes on the cheese.
• Charcuterie Additions: Include cured meats like prosciutto or salami for a fuller spread.
• Sweet and Savory: Add dried fruits, like apricots or figs, and drizzle honey over the cheese.
• Herb-Infused: Toss olives with rosemary, thyme, and lemon zest for added flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover olives and cheese separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Olives and cheese are best served cold or at room temperature; no reheating is necessary.

FAQs

1. What type of olives pair best with cheese?

Kalamata, Castelvetrano, and marinated green olives are great choices due to their robust and varied flavors.

2. What cheeses work well with olives?

Feta, manchego, goat cheese, mozzarella, and Parmesan complement olives beautifully.

3. Can I marinate store-bought olives?

Yes, toss olives with olive oil, garlic, lemon zest, and herbs for an easy homemade marinade.

4. How do I make this platter kid-friendly?

Choose mild olives and cheeses like mozzarella and cheddar for younger palates.

5. Can I use flavored cheese?

Absolutely! Herb-infused goat cheese or garlic and herb Boursin add extra flavor.

6. What drinks pair well with olives and cheese?

Serve with wine (red, white, or sparkling), martinis, or even a citrusy mocktail.

7. How can I make this platter gluten-free?

Omit the bread and crackers or use gluten-free options for serving.

8. What’s a good way to add color to the platter?

Incorporate bright green Castelvetrano olives, vibrant red roasted peppers, or fresh herbs like parsley and rosemary.

9. Can I serve this dish warm?

Warm olives tossed with olive oil and herbs make a comforting addition to the platter, but cheese is typically best served at room temperature.

10. Can I make this platter ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the platter up to 2 hours in advance and cover with plastic wrap. Bring to room temperature before serving.

Conclusion

Olives and Cheese is a timeless and effortless appetizer that suits any occasion. With its combination of bold, briny olives and creamy, flavorful cheese, it’s a versatile dish that’s sure to please. Whether you’re hosting a formal gathering or enjoying a casual evening with friends, this simple yet elegant pairing is a guaranteed hit. Enjoy!

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