Save A beautiful, festive appetizer platter featuring a white dove made from creamy cheese and an assortment of olives, perfect for holiday gatherings.
This appetizer always delights my guests and adds a charming centerpiece to our holiday table.
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
- Step 1:
- In a small bowl, mix the cream cheese, Greek yogurt, salt, and white pepper until smooth and spreadable.
- Step 2:
- On a large serving platter, mound the cheese mixture into the shape of a dove, using a spatula or spoon. Smooth the surface gently.
- Step 3:
- Cut a small triangle from the carrot for the doves beak and two tiny pieces for the feet. Place them appropriately on the dove shape.
- Step 4:
- Press the black peppercorns onto the dove for the eyes.
- Step 5:
- Arrange the green, black, and Kalamata olives in clusters around the dove to form branches and a festive border.
- Step 6:
- Add cherry tomatoes and cucumber slices artistically around the platter for color and freshness.
- Step 7:
- Drizzle the olives and vegetables lightly with olive oil.
- Step 8:
- Garnish with fresh rosemary sprigs to resemble olive branches in the doves beak or around the platter.
- Step 9:
- Chill until ready to serve. Serve with crackers or sliced baguette if desired.
Save This recipe always brings my family together, making holiday moments even more special.
Required Tools
Large serving platter, Small mixing bowl, Spatula or spoon, Sharp knife
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (cream cheese, yogurt). Check olive packaging for possible allergen cross-contamination. Gluten-free if served without bread or with gluten-free options.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 155, Total Fat: 13 g, Carbohydrates: 5 g, Protein: 4 g per serving
Save This Peace Dove Olive Platter is sure to be a hit at your next holiday gathering, combining festive charm with delicious flavors.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I shape the cheese into a dove?
Mix cream cheese and Greek yogurt until smooth, then mound onto your serving platter. Use a spatula or spoon to sculpt the shape gently, adding carrot pieces for beak and feet, and black peppercorns for eyes.
- → Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, herbed goat cheese or any soft spreadable cheese works well and adds a tangier flavor if preferred.
- → What olives are best for this platter?
A mix of green, black, and Kalamata olives provides a balanced flavor and pleasing contrast in color and texture.
- → How should I serve this dish?
Chill until ready to serve and pair with crackers or sliced baguette. Gluten-free crackers can be used for special dietary needs.
- → Are there any allergen considerations?
This contains dairy from cream cheese and yogurt; ensure olive packaging is checked for cross-contamination if allergies are a concern.
- → Can I prepare this platter ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the dove and arrange olives a few hours ahead, then keep refrigerated until serving to preserve freshness.