Save to Pinterest A visually striking appetizer featuring alternating cubes of cheese and olives arranged like a chessboard. Perfect for parties and gatherings.
I first served this at a family gathering and everyone loved the unique presentation and effortless assembly.
Ingredients
- Cheese: 100 g aged cheddar cheese cut into 1.5 cm cubes, 100 g firm mozzarella cheese cut into 1.5 cm cubes
- Olives: 100 g black olives pitted and drained, 100 g green olives pitted and drained
- Garnish (optional): 2 tbsp fresh parsley finely chopped, crackers or breadsticks for serving
Instructions
- Arrange the cheese cubes and olives:
- Arrange the cheese cubes and olives alternately on a large square or rectangular platter to mimic a chessboard pattern (e.g. cheddar, black olive, mozzarella, green olive, etc.)
- Fill the platter:
- Continue until the platter is filled keeping the pattern consistent
- Garnish:
- Sprinkle chopped parsley over the board for a fresh touch (optional)
- Serve:
- Serve immediately with crackers or breadsticks on the side
Save to Pinterest This recipe always makes for a fun and enjoyable moment when shared with family and friends.
Required Tools
Large serving platter or tray, small knife, cutting board
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (cheese). Olives are usually safe but check stuffing for allergens if using stuffed olives. Double-check cheese labels for gluten if serving to gluten-intolerant guests.
Nutritional Information
Calories 185, Total Fat 14 g, Carbohydrates 3 g, Protein 10 g
Save to Pinterest This cheese and olive chess board is an impressive appetizer that requires minimal effort and delivers maximum impact.
Recipe FAQs
- → What types of cheese work best for this dish?
Aged cheddar and firm mozzarella provide contrasting textures and flavors, but semi-firm cheeses like gouda or havarti can also be used.
- → Can I use different olives for variety?
Yes, swapping for stuffed or marinated olives adds extra flavor and excitement to the board.
- → How should the cheese and olives be cut for presentation?
Cut cheeses into uniform 1.5 cm cubes and use pitted, drained olives for neat, consistent placement.
- → Is there a suggested garnish to enhance the board?
Freshly chopped parsley sprinkled over the board adds a fresh touch and vibrant color.
- → What accompaniments pair well with this chessboard?
Serve with crackers or breadsticks and consider crisp white wine or sparkling water to complement flavors.