Pin It The Peace Dove Christmas Olive Platter is a charming and festive appetizer that brings a touch of elegance and whimsy to any holiday gathering. Crafted with a creamy cheese dove centerpiece surrounded by a colorful assortment of olives and fresh vegetables, this platter invites guests to share in a delicious celebration of flavor and beauty. Its easy preparation and beautiful presentation make it a perfect choice to impress family and friends without spending hours in the kitchen.
Pin It Create an inviting and festive atmosphere by placing this olive platter at the center of your table. The delicate cheese dove brings a handmade charm that guests will admire, while the vibrant olives and fresh produce add a burst of color and texture. Enhancing the presentation with sprigs of rosemary evokes the feeling of olive branches, completing this stunning holiday appetizer.
Ingredients
- For the Dove
- 200 g cream cheese, softened
- 2 tbsp plain Greek yogurt
- 1/4 tsp salt
- Pinch of white pepper
- 1 small carrot (for beak and feet)
- 2 black peppercorns (for eyes)
- For the Olive Platter
- 150 g green olives, pitted
- 150 g black olives, pitted
- 100 g Kalamata olives, pitted
- 100 g cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 small cucumber, sliced
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- Fresh rosemary sprigs (for garnish and olive branches)
Instructions
- 1. Prepare the cheese mixture
- In a small bowl, mix the cream cheese, Greek yogurt, salt, and white pepper until smooth and spreadable.
- 2. Shape the dove
- On a large serving platter, mound the cheese mixture into the shape of a dove, using a spatula or spoon. Smooth the surface gently.
- 3. Add carrot details
- Cut a small triangle from the carrot for the dove’s beak and two tiny pieces for the feet. Place them appropriately on the dove shape.
- 4. Attach eyes
- Press the black peppercorns onto the dove for the eyes.
- 5. Arrange olives
- Arrange the green, black, and Kalamata olives in clusters around the dove to form branches and a festive border.
- 6. Add fresh produce
- Add cherry tomatoes and cucumber slices artistically around the platter for color and freshness.
- 7. Drizzle with oil
- Drizzle the olives and vegetables lightly with olive oil.
- 8. Garnish with rosemary
- Garnish with fresh rosemary sprigs to resemble olive branches in the dove’s beak or around the platter.
- 9. Chill and serve
- Chill until ready to serve. Serve with crackers or sliced baguette if desired.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
For a more refined dove shape, consider using a piping bag to create detailed curves and feathers. This allows for a more artistic and precise presentation, adding to the festive charm of the platter.
Varianten und Anpassungen
Swap the cream cheese with herbed goat cheese for a tangier, more aromatic flavor. For added color and variety, include roasted red peppers or artichoke hearts alongside the olives and vegetables.
Serviervorschläge
This olive platter pairs beautifully with gluten-free crackers or sliced baguette, making it easy to customize for your guests' dietary needs. Chill the platter until service to keep it fresh and inviting throughout your party.
Pin It With its charming appearance and simple preparation, the Peace Dove Christmas Olive Platter is sure to become a beloved holiday tradition. Its combination of creamy texture, briny olives, and fresh accents makes for a deliciously memorable start to any festive celebration.
Recipe FAQs
- → What cheese is used for the dove shape?
Softened cream cheese blended with Greek yogurt creates a smooth, moldable base ideal for sculpting the dove.
- → How are the dove's features detailed?
Carrot pieces form the beak and feet, while black peppercorns make the eyes, adding natural color and texture.
- → Which olives are included on the platter?
The platter features a mix of green, black, and Kalamata olives to provide varied flavors and visual contrast.
- → Can this be prepared ahead of time?
Yes, the dove shape and olive arrangement can be assembled and chilled in advance, ensuring freshness when served.
- → What garnishes enhance the platter's presentation?
Fresh rosemary sprigs imitate olive branches and add aromatic notes that complement the olives and cheese.
- → Are there alternatives for different flavors?
Herbed goat cheese can replace cream cheese for a tangier twist, and additions like roasted peppers add color and flavor.