Ingredients
Scale
For the Cheese & Olive Skewers
- 1 cup green olives (pitted)
- 1 cup black olives (pitted)
- 1½ cups cheese cubes (cheddar, gouda, mozzarella, or a mix)
- 12–15 cherry tomatoes (optional for color and freshness)
- Small wooden cocktail skewers or toothpicks
For the Marinade
- ½ cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For Garnish and Assembly
- Fresh rosemary or thyme sprigs (for decoration)
- Lemon slices or citrus wedges (optional)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Marinade
- In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, parsley, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper.
- Taste and adjust seasoning to balance brightness and herbaceous notes.
2. Marinate the Olives and Cheese
- In a large container or bowl, combine green olives, black olives, and cheese cubes.
- Pour the marinade over and gently toss to coat.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or up to 24 hours for deeper flavor. Stir once or twice during marination for even coating.
3. Assemble the Skewers
- After marination, thread a variety of olives and cheese cubes onto cocktail skewers or toothpicks.
- You can alternate olives and cheese, or add cherry tomatoes for a burst of freshness and color.
- Prepare enough skewers to arrange around a platter in a ring shape.
4. Create the Ring Arrangement
- On a large round platter or serving tray, arrange the skewers in a circular pattern to form a decorative ring.
- Tuck fresh herb sprigs between skewers to add greenery and visual flair.
- Add citrus slices or wedges on the sides for garnish if desired.
5. Serve the Ring
- Allow the skewers to come to room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving to bring out full flavor.
- Provide small plates or napkins so guests can easily grab individual skewers.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Marination Time: 2–24 hours
- Cook Time: 20 minutes active, plus marination
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approx. 4–5 skewers per person
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 1g
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 10g