Save A vibrant and playful appetizer featuring colorful cheese cubes, stacked with festive garnishes—perfect for holiday gatherings.
This appetizer quickly became a holiday favorite in our family because it combines simple ingredients with eye-catching appeal.
Ingredients
- Cheeses: 100 g aged cheddar cut into 1.5 cm cubes, 100 g gouda cut into 1.5 cm cubes, 100 g havarti cut into 1.5 cm cubes, 100 g pepper jack cut into 1.5 cm cubes
- Garnishes: 16 cherry tomatoes halved, 16 green olives pitted, 8 baby pickles (cornichons) sliced, 2 tbsp fresh parsley chopped
- Serving: 16 wooden party picks or mini skewers
Instructions
- Prepare Cheeses:
- Cut all cheeses into evenly sized 1.5 cm cubes
- Prepare Garnishes:
- Lay out all garnishes in separate bowls for easy assembly
- Assemble Stacks:
- Alternate 3 4 cheese cubes varying types for color contrast on a party pick
- Add Flavor Layers:
- Between cheese layers add a slice of baby pickle or an olive for extra flavor
- Top Stacks:
- Top each stack with a halved cherry tomato and a sprinkle of parsley
- Arrange Platters:
- Arrange stacks upright on a festive platter
- Serve:
- Serve immediately or cover and refrigerate until ready to serve
Save We always enjoy making these stacks together as a fun and colorful starter for family celebrations.
Notes
Swap cheeses for your favorites try Swiss Emmental or blue cheese for variety Add cured meats like salami for a nonvegetarian option Pair with crisp white wine or sparkling cider for a festive touch
Required Tools
Sharp knife Cutting board Wooden party picks or mini skewers Serving platter
Allergen Information
Contains milk dairy Olives may be processed in facilities with nuts or gluten check packaging if allergies are a concern
Save This appetizer offers both beauty and deliciousness in every bite making any gathering feel extra special.
Recipe FAQs
- → What cheeses work best for the stacks?
Aged cheddar, gouda, havarti, and pepper jack provide great flavor and color contrast, but Swiss, Emmental, or blue cheese can be used as alternatives.
- → How should the cheese cubes be cut?
Cut cheeses into uniform 1.5 cm cubes to ensure easy stacking and balanced bites.
- → Can I add meats to the stacks?
Yes, cured meats like salami can be included for a non-vegetarian variation to add more savory notes.
- → What garnishes enhance the flavor?
Cherry tomatoes, green olives, baby pickles, and fresh parsley add brightness, acidity, and a fresh finish.
- → How should the stacks be served?
Arrange assembled stacks upright on a serving platter and serve immediately, or chill covered until needed.
- → What are good drink pairings?
Crisp white wines or sparkling cider complement the variety of cheeses and garnishes well.