Pin It A festive and colorful appetizer featuring olives, cherry tomatoes, and fresh herbs, arranged in a beautiful wreath shape perfect for entertaining and holiday gatherings.
This appetizer quickly became a favorite at our family gatherings thanks to its fresh flavors and beautiful presentation.
Ingredients
- Cherry Tomatoes: 1 pint (300 g) red and yellow if available
- Green Olives: 1 cup (150 g) pitted
- Black Olives: 1 cup (150 g) pitted
- Mini Mozzarella Balls (bocconcini): 1/2 cup (75 g)
- Fresh Basil Leaves: 1/2 cup (10 g)
- Fresh Parsley Sprigs: 1/2 cup (10 g)
- Fresh Rosemary Sprigs: 1/4 cup (5 g)
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil: 2 tbsp
- Balsamic Glaze (optional): 1 tbsp
- Freshly Ground Black Pepper: to taste
- Flaky Sea Salt: to taste
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Wash and dry cherry tomatoes, basil, parsley, and rosemary.
- Step 2:
- On a large round serving platter arrange the rosemary and parsley in a circular wreath shape as the base.
- Step 3:
- Alternately layer cherry tomatoes green olives black olives and mozzarella balls around the herb base creating a full ring.
- Step 4:
- Tuck fresh basil leaves throughout the wreath for color and aroma.
- Step 5:
- Drizzle the olive oil over the entire wreath and if using a few lines of balsamic glaze.
- Step 6:
- Season with freshly ground black pepper and a sprinkle of flaky sea salt.
- Step 7:
- Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 1 hour before serving.
Pin It This wreath has become a centerpiece at holiday parties bringing family and friends together.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this appetizer with a crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc and enjoy with crusty gluten-free bread if preferred.
Storage Tips
Assemble the wreath fresh or refrigerate for up to 1 hour before serving to keep ingredients vibrant.
Variations
Add roasted red peppers or artichoke hearts to customize the flavor and color of your wreath.
Pin It A simple yet stunning appetizer that’s sure to impress your guests every time.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I keep the tomatoes fresh and shiny?
Wash and dry the cherry tomatoes thoroughly before arranging to maintain freshness and a glossy appearance.
- → Can I prepare the wreath ahead of time?
You can assemble the wreath up to 1 hour before serving and refrigerate to keep ingredients fresh.
- → What herbs complement the flavors best?
Fresh basil, parsley, and rosemary provide aromatic notes that enhance the olives and tomatoes beautifully.
- → Is there a suggested dressing for the wreath?
A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and optional balsamic glaze adds depth and subtle sweetness to the wreath.
- → What can I serve alongside this wreath?
Toasted baguette slices or breadsticks make excellent accompaniments, offering a crunchy contrast to the soft ingredients.
- → Are there easy substitutions for mozzarella balls?
Mini mozzarella balls (bocconcini) work best, but small cubes of feta or ricotta salata can be used for variety.