• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
  • All Recipes
  • IP Calculator
  • SV Chart
  • Using Grow
  • Subscribe

Smells Like Delish

menu icon
go to homepage
  • All Recipes
  • IP Calculator
  • SV Chart
  • Using Grow
  • Subscribe
    • Facebook
    • Pinterest
    • YouTube
  • subscribe
    search icon
    Homepage link
    • All Recipes
    • IP Calculator
    • SV Chart
    • Using Grow
    • Subscribe
    • Facebook
    • Pinterest
    • YouTube
  • ×

    Home » Recipes » Appetizers

    Published: Dec 13, 2022 by Kelly Bloom · This post may contain affiliate links · Leave a Comment

    • Facebook
    • Pinterest
    • Instagram
    • Yummly
    • YouTube

    Christmas Wreath Appetizer

    Jump to Recipe Print Recipe
    Christmas wreath appetizer.

    This year, give your Christmas party or dinner a touch of class with this simple yet elegant Christmas Wreath Appetizer. This show-stopper appetizer starts with fresh sprig that are shaped into a wreath.

    Garnished with festive red cherry tomatoes, black and green olives, and mini mozzarella balls, this healthy Christmas appetizer will be sure to impress all your guests.

    Holiday appetizer wreath.

    Why You Will Love This Recipe

    As appetizer recipes abound, there's no need to stick with the same old standby's this year. This festive Christmas Wreath Appetizer packs a flavorful punch while providing a stunning visual presentation on a holiday platter!

    With its simple combination of red cherry tomatoes, mini mozzarella balls, and both black and green olives, you'll be sure to win rave reviews from family and friends alike. So get ready - it's time t make this delicious twist on traditional holiday fare!

    Jump to:
    • Why You Will Love This Recipe
    • Ingredients
    • How to Make a Healthy Christmas Appetizer
    • Serving Suggestions
    • Substitutions
    • Variations
    • Storage
    • Tips for Success
    • Frequently Asked Questions
    • Food Safety
    • Some Other Recipes We Are Sure You Will Love
    • Connect with Smells Like Delish!
    • 📖 Recipe

    Ingredients

    Why not try making something really special this year by crafting a colorful, festive Christmas wreath appetizer that is sure to add some cheer to your event?

    With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you will soon have a beautiful holiday wreath appetizer ready in no time!

    ingredients for making a appetizer wreath.
    • Rosemary sprigs from fresh rosemary.
    • Cheese cubes (you can use Cheddar, Swiss, Montery Jack, Pepper Jack, even Smoked Gouda).
    • Mini Mozzarella balls - I recommend BelGioioso Pearls or Ciliegine as they are the right size.
    • Black olives, pitted - Salty Kalamata are wonderful with this healthy wreath appetizer.
    • Green olives, pitted - Spanish Manzanilla (red pimento stuffed) will looks stunning for a Christmas wreath appetizer!
    • Cherry Tomatoes (for Christmas I use all red, but you can use the blend of yellow, orange, and red cherry tomatoes also).

    Full ingredient amounts and preparation instructions are in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

    How to Make a Healthy Christmas Appetizer

    This is more a visual tutorial than a recipe, as it is like a vegetable crudite or chacuterie board, you tend to use what you have one hand or what you can source.

    The theme is a wreath, and while I love rosemary, other herbs will also be just as beautiful. Consider using fresh Bay leaves, or fresh tarragon. Even ordinary parsley will look beautiful!

    Our Christmas Wreath appetizer is vegetarian, but you could easily add cubes of ham or other cured meats also.

    Step 1. Create the Wreath Base

    Loosely arrange the rosemary sprigs, or other herbs chosen, into a circle about 10 to 12" diameter. You can use a charcuterie board, platter, or simply a plate like I did.

    Place the cheese cubes around the the wreath with space between them for other tidbits.

    cheese cubes being added to a holiday  appetizer.

    Full ingredient amounts and preparation instructions are in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

    Step 2. Add the Black Olives

    Drain the black olives and pat them dry with a paper towel. Position them on the rosemary or herb wreath nearby the cheese cubes.

    cheese cubes being added to a holiday appetizer

    Full ingredient amounts and preparation instructions are in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

    Step 3. Add the Cherry Tomatoes

    Position cherry tomatoes and the mini mozzarella balls next on the wreath in decorative locations between the black olives and cheese.

    A tip for larger cherry tomatoes is to stick a toothpick into the stem, then stick the exposed portion of toothpick into the wreath. This will help position the cheese cubes being added to a holiday appetizercherry tomatoes and prevent them from rolling out of position.

    cheese cubes being added to a holiday appetizer

    Full ingredient amounts and preparation instructions are in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

    Step 4. Finish with the Green Olives

    Last, add the green olives. This is where pitted, pimento stuffed olives, or even garlic stuffed olives would be even more stunning!

    Set some toothpicks and a bowl in the center of the wreath, or nearby, with a blend of all the leftover mini mozzarella balls, olives, and cherry tomatoes.

    green olives added to holiday appetizer wreath.

    Full ingredient amounts and preparation instructions are in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

    Serving Suggestions

    This is one of those Christmas appetizers to make ahead. Just keep the plate or platter in the refrigerator with plastic wrap lightly on the top (to keep the cheese from drying out).

    Your guests will love that this is a gluten free Christmas appetizer. For guests already looking for low carb appetizers, or keto appetizers, this fits the bill, letting everyone indulge!

    For more Christmas appetizers to make ahead, see our Smoked Salmon Cucumber Rolls, Cherry Tomato Bruschetta, Hedgehog Cheese Ball, and Italian Charcuterie Board.

    christmas wreath appetizer with center bowl of additional cheese, olives, and tomatoes.

    Full ingredient amounts and preparation instructions are in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

    Substitutions

    Imagine how beautiful this wreath would be using fresh cut bay laurel sprigs! Not many of us have such a tree in our gardens, but if you do, fresh bay laurel leaves are a perfect substitute for rosemary sprigs.

    Variations

    A few delicious variations on this Christmas Wreath appetizer are:

    • Olive Wreath Appetizer - Replace the cheese and tomatoes with a wider variety of olives. The colors will be stunning.
    • Antipasto Wreath Appetizer - Arrange your holiday wreath appetizer with cubes of meats. Ham, fans of Prosciutto, spicy Capicola, and Genoa Salami.
    • Cheese Wreath Appetizer - Use flutter fans of deli thin cheeses, cubes of cheeses.

    Storage

    Store any leftovers in small baggies. Separate the meats, cheeses, and vegetables. Keep in the refrigerator and use for light snacking.

    Tips for Success

    • Pat the olives dry so they don't get moisture on the cheese cubes.
    • You can buy pre cut cheese cubes in the grocery store, making this healthy Christmas wreath a snap!

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Can I freeze leftovers?

    No, don't freeze this Christmas wreath appetizer. The fresh herbs will change, the tomatoes will get soggy. The best thing to do with leftovers is to separate the components and refrigerate them. Toss in your next salad!

    Food Safety

    • Cook to a minimum temperature of 165 °F (74 °C)
    • Do not use the same utensils on cooked food, that previously touched raw meat
    • Wash hands after touching raw meat
    • Don't leave food sitting out at room temperature for extended periods
    • Never leave cooking food unattended
    • Use oils with high smoking point to avoid harmful compounds
    • Always have good ventilation when using a gas stove

    See more guidelines at USDA.gov.

    Some Other Recipes We Are Sure You Will Love

    • replicated Longhorn Rice Pilaf in a serving bowl.
      Longhorn Rice Pilaf
    • Cream cheese and herb stuffed mushrooms.
      Cream Cheese Stuffed Mushrooms
    • Danish wedding cookies rolled in powdered sugar.
      Danish Wedding Cookies
    • Whip cream and sprinkles on top of a mug of pink hot chocolate.
      Pink Hot Chocolate

    Connect with Smells Like Delish!

    Be sure to follow us on our social media accounts.

    • Facebook
    • Pinterest
    • Instagram
    • Yummly
    • YouTube

    📖 Recipe

    christmas wreath appetizer.
    Print Recipe SaveSaved!
    5 from 2 votes

    Christmas Wreath Appetizer

    This year, give your Christmas party or dinner a touch of class with this simple yet elegant Christmas Wreath Appetizer. This show-stopper appetizer starts with fresh sprig that are shaped into a wreath.
    Garnished with festive red cherry tomatoes, black and green olives, and mini mozzarella balls, this healthy Christmas appetizer will be sure to impress all your guests.
    Prep Time15 mins
    Cook Time0 mins
    Total Time15 mins
    Course: Appetizers
    Cuisine: American, Christmas
    Servings: 6
    Calories: 168kcal
    Author: Kelly Bloom

    Ingredients

    For a 10" to 12" Healthy Christmas Appetizer

    • Rosemary fresh sprigs to make a circle
    • 4 oz Cheddar Cheese cubed
    • 4 oz Mozzarella mini Pearls or Ciliegine
    • ½ cup Kalamata olives drained and patted dry
    • ½ cup Manzanilla olives drained and patted dry
    • ½ cup tomatoes cherry or grape
    US Customary - Metric

    Instructions

    • Loosely arrange the rosemary sprigs, or other herbs chosen, into a circle about 10 to 12" diameter.
      Rosemary
    • Place the cheese cubes around the the wreath with space between them for other tidbits.
      4 oz Cheddar Cheese
    • Drain the black olives and pat them dry with a paper towel. Position them on the rosemary or herb wreath nearby the cheese cubes.
      ½ cup Kalamata olives
    • Position cherry tomatoes and the mini mozzarella balls next on the wreath in decorative locations between the black olives and cheese.
      ½ cup tomatoes, 4 oz Mozzarella
    • Last, add the green olives. This is where pitted, pimento stuffed olives, or even garlic stuffed olives would be even more stunning!
      ½ cup Manzanilla olives
    • Set some toothpicks and a bowl in the center of the wreath, or nearby, with a blend of all the leftover mini mozzarella balls, olives, and cherry tomatoes.

    Notes

    • A tip for larger cherry tomatoes is to stick a toothpick into the stem, then stick the exposed portion of toothpick into the wreath. This will help position the cherry tomatoes and prevent them from rolling out of position.

    Nutrition

    Calories: 168kcal | Carbohydrates: 3g | Protein: 9g | Fat: 14g | Saturated Fat: 6g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 5g | Cholesterol: 31mg | Sodium: 607mg | Potassium: 75mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 496IU | Vitamin C: 2mg | Calcium: 278mg | Iron: 0.2mg
    Keyword : christmas appetizers to make ahead, Christmas wreath appetizer, gluten free christmas appetizers, healthy christmas appetizer, holiday wreath appetizer

    Like this recipe? Be sure to share it, pin it, or add it to your collection!

    • Facebook
    • Yummly
    • Email
    • Twitter

    More Tapas & Appetizer Recipes

    • closeup of a mini processor full of freshly pulsed basil and walnut pesto.
      Thai Basil Pesto
    • air fried samosa appetizers with dip.
      Air Fryer Frozen Samosa
    • air fried quesadilla cut into thirds with cilantro and sour cream garnish.
      Air Fryer Cheese Quesadillas
    • ghana meat pies on a platter.
      Ghanaian Meat Pie

    Reader Interactions

    Leave a Reply Cancel reply

    Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

    Recipe Rating




    Primary Sidebar

    Author photo for Kelly Bloom

    Hi, I'm Kelly! and I have a love affair with herbs & spices! Here at Smells Like Delish, I'm all about creating food that has three aspects: flavor, aroma, and texture - to create satisfying fare!

    More about me →

    Newest Recipes

    • jumbo gluten-free chocolate chip muffins on a cooling rack.
      Bakery Style Gluten Free Chocolate Chip Muffins
    • air fryer frozen french toast sticks.
      Air Fryer Frozen French Toast Sticks
    • cream cheese frosting with no butter.
      Cream Cheese Frosting Without Butter
    • platter of roasted asparagus garnished with cheese and lemon.
      Air Fryer Frozen Asparagus
    recipe newsletter

    Diet Friendly Recipes

    • serving dish with blackened mahi mahi and lemon wedges with tartar sauce in a bowl.
      Blackened Mahi Mahi
    • plate of cajun chicken and shrimp pasta.
      Cajun Chicken and Shrimp Pasta
    • baked branzino glazed with miso sauce on a serving platter with lemon wedges.
      Miso Baked Branzino
    • serving platter of tri color carrots garnished with herbs, olive oil, and lemon.
      Roasted Rainbow Carrots

    Asian Inspirations

    • beef & broccoli stir fry in a skillet.
      Panda Express Beef and Broccoli
    • powdered sugar dusted croffles on a serving platter.
      Croffles (Croissant Waffles)
    • platter of thai chicken cashew on rice.
      Thai Cashew Chicken
    • teriyaki salmon steaks garnished with sesame seeds and thai basil leaves.
      Air Fryer Teriyaki Salmon

    Recommended

    • del frisco's butter cake with ice cream, caramel sauce, and whip cream.
      Del Frisco's Butter Cake
    • serving bowl of mashed potatoes garnished with butter & parsley.
      Bob Evans Mashed Potatoes
    • A corn muffin with the wrapper removed.
      Cracker Barrel Cornbread Recipe
    • small plate with cut pork lumpia and a small bowl of dipping sauce nearby
      Traditional Pork Lumpia
    • close up of serving bowl with black beans, tostones, cilantro.
      Instant Pot Cuban Black Beans
    • close up of white serving platter with three grilled pork chops and a green napkin on a white background
      Pan Grilled Steakhouse Pork Chops

    International Favorites

    • Fried Sweet Plantains in a serving dish.
      Fried Sweet Plantains (Platanos Maduros)
    • Bowl of Chimichurri rice.
      Chimichurri Rice
    • Jollof rice Ghanaian style, molded in a small bowl on a plate.
      Jollof Rice Ghanaian
    • hot naan on a cooling rack.
      Sourdough Naan

    Footer

    ↑ back to top
    • Privacy Policy
    • Disclosure Policy
    • Disclaimer
    • Contact
    • About
    • Amazon Store
    • Facebook
    • Pinterest
    • Instagram
    • Youtube
    • LinkedIn

    As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

    Copyright © 2022 Smells Like Delish