A vibrant mix of olives, cheeses, vegetables, and nuts arranged in a dove shape for a stunning starter.
# What You Need:
→ Olives
01 - 3.5 oz green olives, pitted
02 - 3.5 oz black olives, pitted
03 - 3.5 oz Kalamata olives, pitted
→ Cheeses
04 - 2.8 oz feta cheese, cubed
05 - 2.8 oz Manchego cheese, cubed
→ Fresh Vegetables & Garnishes
06 - 1 small cucumber, sliced into rounds
07 - 6 cherry tomatoes, halved
08 - 1 small red bell pepper, thinly sliced
09 - 1 small bunch fresh parsley
→ Accompaniments
10 - 1 small baguette, sliced
11 - 1.8 oz roasted almonds
12 - 1.8 oz stuffed grape leaves (dolmas)
→ Decorative Elements
13 - A few edible flowers (optional)
14 - 1 small bowl extra virgin olive oil, for dipping
# Steps:
01 - On a large serving platter or board, use the green, black, and Kalamata olives to create and fill a dove silhouette, referencing a simple bird shape.
02 - Place feta and Manchego cheese cubes near the wings area of the dove to balance texture and flavor.
03 - Arrange cucumber slices and halved cherry tomatoes to highlight the dove's tail and beak, injecting color and freshness.
04 - Distribute thin red bell pepper strips and stuffed grape leaves around the dove for enhanced garnishing and flavor contrast.
05 - Sprinkle small parsley bunches and optional edible flowers to add vibrancy and symbolism of peace.
06 - Place sliced baguette and roasted almonds in separate small bowls or arrange them around the platter for easy access.
07 - Set a small bowl of extra virgin olive oil nearby to accompany the platter for dipping.
