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 recipe has been a highlight at many holiday gatherings bringing smiles with its charming presentation and delicious flavors.

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

Quickly chop vegetables, mince herbs, and blend sauces for faster, everyday meal preparation.

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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.

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Highly recommended for family gatherings as it adds a warm festive touch everyone enjoys.

Notes

Serve alongside gluten-free crackers for a fully gluten-free platter or 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 or with gluten-free options.

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Mix doughs, batters, and whipped cream easily for baking cakes, cookies, and everyday treats.

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This Peace Dove Olive Platter makes a simple yet stunning addition to your holiday table, sure to impress guests with minimal effort.

Common Questions

→ How do I shape the dove from the cheese?

Mix the cream cheese and yogurt until smooth, then mound and shape it gently with a spatula on your platter. Use a carrot piece for the beak and feet, and peppercorns for eyes.

→ What types of olives work best for this platter?

A mix of green, black, and Kalamata olives offers a variety of flavors and colors that complement the creamy dove and add visual interest.

→ Can I prepare this platter ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the cheese and olives in advance and keep chilled until serving to maintain freshness and shape.

→ What garnishes add the most festive touch?

Fresh rosemary sprigs resembling olive branches, along with cherry tomatoes and cucumber slices, add color and elegance.

→ Are there alternative cheeses to use for the dove?

Herbed goat cheese can be used for a tangier flavor and different texture, while maintaining the shaping ease.