Save 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 wreath has become my go-to appetizer for holidays as it's fresh and always impresses guests.
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.
Save This wreath brings my family together during celebrations and everyone loves helping arrange and eat it.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with toasted baguette slices or breadsticks and pair with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc.
Storage Tips
Refrigerate assembled wreath for up to 1 hour but best served fresh to retain texture and color.
Variations
Marinate mozzarella in olive oil garlic and herbs for extra flavor or add roasted red peppers and artichoke hearts for variety.
Save This appetizer wreath is a simple way to brighten your holiday table and impress your guests.
Recipe Questions
- → Can I prepare this wreath in advance?
Yes, you can assemble the wreath ahead and refrigerate it for up to one hour before serving to maintain freshness.
- → What variations can I try with the wreath?
Consider adding roasted peppers or artichoke hearts for extra color and taste, or marinate mozzarella in olive oil and garlic for deeper flavor.
- → How should I store leftovers?
Cover the wreath tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. Consume within 24 hours for best texture and flavor.
- → Is this suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes, as is, the wreath is gluten-free. Pair it with gluten-free bread if serving alongside.
- → What type of olives work best for this dish?
Pitted green and black olives provide a nice balance of salty and savory flavors, complementing the fresh ingredients well.