Skewered Cheese and Olives are the kind of snack that can turn a casual gathering into a full-blown Mediterranean fiesta. Picture this: a vibrant platter filled with glistening olives nestled next to luscious cubes of cheese, all skewered together like an edible art piece. You can almost hear the clinking of glasses and the laughter of friends as they reach for these delightful bites, bursting with flavor and charm.
Now, if you’re anything like me, you might have a fond memory of summer barbecues where these skewers made their debut. Each bite brings a wave of nostalgia, reminding you of sun-drenched days and carefree evenings spent chatting with loved ones. Whether it’s a picnic in the park or a cozy movie night at home, Skewered Cheese and Olives deliver joy in every mouthful, making them perfect for any occasion.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This snack is incredibly easy to prepare, taking mere minutes to assemble
- The combination of cheese and olives creates a delightful flavor explosion that will leave your taste buds dancing
- Visually appealing, these skewers add a pop of color to any table setting
- They are also versatile enough to serve as appetizers or party snacks for any gathering
Ingredients for Skewered Cheese and Olives
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
-
Cheese Cubes: Choose your favorite types like cheddar, mozzarella, or feta for varied flavors and textures.
-
Olives: Use a mix of green and black olives for color and tangy goodness; pitted is best for easy snacking.
-
Cherry Tomatoes: These add sweetness and juiciness—look for firm, vibrant tomatoes.
-
Fresh Herbs: Basil or parsley elevate the flavors; use fresh for the best aroma.
-
Wooden Skewers: Opt for long ones to accommodate plenty of ingredients; soak in water beforehand to prevent burning.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Skewered Cheese and Olives
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
Start by assembling all your ingredients on a clean surface. Make sure your cheese is cut into even cubes, your olives are pitted (unless you enjoy playing “dodge-the-pit”), and your cherry tomatoes are washed.
Step 2: Prepare the Skewers
Take your wooden skewers and soak them in water for about 30 minutes—this keeps them from burning when you cook them later. If you’re feeling fancy, you can even use metal skewers!
Step 3: Assemble Your Skewers
Now comes the fun part! Begin threading onto each skewer one cube of cheese followed by an olive and a cherry tomato. Repeat until you’ve filled the skewer or run out of ingredients—whichever comes first!
Step 4: Drizzle with Olive Oil
Once assembled, lay the skewers on a baking sheet and drizzle lightly with olive oil. Sprinkle some salt and pepper over them if you want that extra zing! You can also toss on some dried herbs if you’re feeling adventurous.
Step 5: Grill or Bake
Preheat your grill (or oven) to medium heat (about 350°F / 175°C). Grill those beauties for about 10-15 minutes until the cheese starts melting slightly. If baking, place them on parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Step 6: Serve Warm
Once they’re beautifully golden and aromatic, carefully remove them from heat. Transfer to an elegant platter or simply serve straight from the baking sheet—who says we can’t keep it casual?
Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch! Enjoy!
You Must Know
- This delightful skewered cheese and olives recipe combines savory flavors with a touch of elegance, making it perfect for parties or casual gatherings
- Easy to prepare and visually appealing, these skewers will impress your guests without breaking a sweat
Perfecting the Cooking Process
For more inspiration, check out this cooking tips and techniques recipe.
To create the ultimate skewered cheese and olives, start by marinating the olives in olive oil and herbs while you cube the cheese. Then, skewer them together and grill briefly for that smoky flavor.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize your skewers by adding cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, or even some spicy jalapeños for an extra kick. Experiment with different cheeses like feta or gouda for unique flavors.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover skewers in an airtight container in the fridge. For best results, enjoy them cold as a refreshing snack or appetizer – no reheating necessary.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When preparing skewered cheese and olives, remember to use fresh ingredients for maximum flavor
- Soak wooden skewers in water before grilling to prevent burning
- Don’t overcrowd the skewers; space helps ensure even cooking and flavor distribution
I once made these skewered cheese and olives for a potluck dinner, and they disappeared faster than I could say “delicious.” My friends couldn’t stop raving about how simple yet tasty they were!
FAQs :
What ingredients do I need for Skewered Cheese and Olives?
To make Skewered Cheese and Olives, you will need a selection of your favorite cheeses, such as cheddar, mozzarella, or feta. Additionally, choose a variety of olives, like Kalamata or green olives. You’ll also need wooden or metal skewers for assembling the dish. Optional ingredients include cherry tomatoes, fresh herbs like basil, and a drizzle of olive oil or balsamic vinegar for added flavor. This simple yet delicious appetizer is perfect for parties or family gatherings.
How do I prepare Skewered Cheese and Olives?
Preparing Skewered Cheese and Olives is easy and quick. Start by cutting the cheese into bite-sized cubes. If using cherry tomatoes, wash them thoroughly. Next, thread the cheese cubes and olives onto the skewers, alternating between them for visual appeal. If desired, add other ingredients like tomatoes or herbs. Once assembled, you can drizzle olive oil or balsamic vinegar over the skewers to enhance their flavor before serving. Enjoy this tasty treat cold or at room temperature!
Can I customize my Skewered Cheese and Olives?
Absolutely! One of the great things about Skewered Cheese and Olives is that you can customize them to suit your taste preferences. Feel free to experiment with different types of cheeses, such as goat cheese or pepper jack. You can also try various olive varieties or add vegetables like bell peppers or cucumbers. For a spicy kick, consider adding jalapeño slices. The versatility of this appetizer makes it an excellent choice for any occasion.
How should I store leftover Skewered Cheese and Olives?
If you have leftover Skewered Cheese and Olives, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness. It’s best to consume them within two days for optimal taste and quality. To prevent sogginess, avoid drizzling any dressing until just before serving if you plan to store leftovers. Enjoy these delightful snacks chilled for the best experience! For more inspiration, check out this more delicious recipes recipe.
Conclusion for Skewered Cheese and Olives :
Skewered Cheese and Olives offer a simple yet flavorful appetizer option that delights guests at any gathering. With just a few ingredients like cheese varieties and olives, you can create a beautiful presentation that pleases the palate. Customization allows you to tailor this dish to your taste preferences easily. Whether served at parties or family get-togethers, these skewers are sure to impress everyone with their delightful flavors!
Skewered Cheese and Olives
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 10 servings 1x
Description
Skewered Cheese and Olives are a delightful appetizer that effortlessly combines creamy cheese, tangy olives, and fresh herbs on skewers for a burst of flavor. Perfect for any gathering, these colorful bites are easy to prepare and sure to impress your guests. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or enjoying a cozy night in, these skewers deliver Mediterranean charm in every bite.
Ingredients
- 1 cup cheese cubes (cheddar, mozzarella, or feta)
- 1 cup mixed olives (green and black, pitted)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
- ¼ cup fresh herbs (basil or parsley)
- 10 wooden skewers (soaked in water)
Instructions
- Gather all ingredients: cheese cubes, pitted olives, halved cherry tomatoes, and fresh herbs.
- Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning.
- Assemble skewers by threading a cheese cube, olive, and cherry tomato alternately until filled.
- Drizzle assembled skewers with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
- Grill or bake at medium heat (350°F / 175°C) for 10-15 minutes until the cheese is slightly melted.
- Serve warm on a platter or directly from the baking sheet.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Grilling/Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 skewer
- Calories: 90
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: - For added flavor, marinate olives in olive oil and herbs before assembling. - Customize your skewers by adding bell peppers or spicy jalapeños for an extra kick. - Store leftovers in an airtight container; enjoy cold within two days.