Peace Dove Christmas Olive Platter

A beautiful festive appetizer platter featuring a white dove made from creamy cheese and an assortment of olives perfect for holiday gatherings

This olive platter never fails to impress guests at our family holiday celebrations and is always a hit

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

Mix Cheese Mixture:

In a small bowl, mix the cream cheese, Greek yogurt, salt, and white pepper until smooth and spreadable

Shape 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

Add Carrot Details:

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

Add Eyes:

Press the black peppercorns onto the dove for the eyes

Arrange Olives:

Arrange the green, black, and Kalamata olives in clusters around the dove to form branches and a festive border

Add Vegetables:

Add cherry tomatoes and cucumber slices artistically around the platter for color and freshness

Drizzle Oil:

Drizzle the olives and vegetables lightly with olive oil

Garnish:

Garnish with fresh rosemary sprigs to resemble olive branches in the doves beak or around the platter

Chill and Serve:

Chill until ready to serve Serve with crackers or sliced baguette if desired

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Our family looks forward to this olive platter every Christmas as it brings everyone together around the table

Notes

Use a piping bag for more detailed shaping of the dove if desired Swap in herbed goat cheese for a tangier flavor Serve alongside gluten-free crackers for a fully gluten-free platter Add roasted red peppers or artichoke hearts for extra color and flavor

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 crackers or with gluten-free options

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This Peace Dove Christmas Olive Platter will be the star of your holiday table adding charm and deliciousness in every bite

Recipe FAQs

→ What type of cheese is used for the dove?

The dove is made from softened cream cheese mixed with plain Greek yogurt for a smooth texture and mild flavor.

→ How do you create the dove shape?

The cheese mixture is shaped by hand or with a spatula on a large serving platter, smoothing the surface for a clean appearance.

→ What ingredients form the dove's features?

Carrot pieces are used for the beak and feet, while black peppercorns serve as the eyes.

→ Which olives are included on the platter?

A mix of green, black, and Kalamata olives are artfully arranged to resemble olive branches and add depth of flavor.

→ How is the platter garnished?

Fresh rosemary sprigs are placed to mimic olive branches and enhance the platter's festive appearance.

→ Can I customize the cheese used for shaping?

Yes, herbed goat cheese can be substituted for a tangier taste and different texture.