Description
This festive Christmas Tree Appetizer is a colorful, no-cook party platter perfect for holiday gatherings. Layers of cheese cubes, piquanté peppers, grapes, olives, and salami are arranged artfully in the shape of a Christmas tree on a serving board, with pretzel sticks as the trunk and rosemary sprigs adding a fresh, aromatic touch.
Ingredients
Scale
Cheese & Meats
- 1 cup cheese cubes
- 3 ounces sliced salami
Vegetables & Fruits
- 4 piquanté peppers
- 1 cup green and red grapes
- 1/2 cup mixed olives
Garnishes
- 5 to 8 small pretzel sticks
- 2 tablespoons rosemary sprigs
Instructions
- Arrange the cheese cubes: Place a few cheese cubes at the top of a large platter or serving board in a neat triangle shape to form the tip of the Christmas tree.
- Layer the ingredients: Add a layer of piquanté peppers right below the cheese, followed by a layer of green grapes. Continue layering by adding another layer of cheese cubes, then sliced salami, red grapes, and finally a layer of mixed olives at the bottom to complete the tree shape.
- Create the trunk: Arrange the pretzel sticks vertically under the base of the layered ingredients to resemble the trunk of the tree, anchoring the design.
- Add rosemary sprigs: Tuck rosemary sprigs along the edges of the tree to mimic evergreen branches, enhancing the festive look and adding freshness.
Notes
- This appetizer requires no cooking, making it quick and easy for last-minute gatherings.
- You can substitute piquanté peppers with mild bell peppers if a less spicy option is preferred.
- Use a mix of seedless grapes for easier eating and to avoid bitterness.
- For a vegetarian version, omit the salami and add extra cheese or olives as substitutes.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature for best flavor and texture.
