Cheese and Olive Chessboard

Featured in: One-Pot Everyday Comfort

This dish features cubes of aged cheddar and firm mozzarella alternated with black and green olives, arranged artfully on a platter to create a checkerboard effect. Garnished with fresh parsley, it offers a delightful balance of flavors and textures. Ideal for quick preparation, it pairs well with crackers or breadsticks and suits vegetarian and gluten-free diets when using appropriate cheese. A versatile and elegant option for gatherings and casual entertaining.

Updated on Wed, 10 Dec 2025 11:48:00 GMT
Beautiful Cheese and Olive Chess Board: a festive appetizer arranged in a classic checkered pattern. Pin It
Beautiful Cheese and Olive Chess Board: a festive appetizer arranged in a classic checkered pattern. | cedarlemon.com

A visually striking appetizer featuring alternating cubes of cheese and olives arranged like a chessboard. Perfect for parties and gatherings.

This appetizer is a fun and elegant addition to any event, impressing guests with its simple yet creative layout.

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

Step 1:
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.)
Step 2:
Continue until the platter is filled, keeping the pattern consistent
Step 3:
Sprinkle chopped parsley over the board for a fresh touch (optional)
Step 4:
Serve immediately with crackers or breadsticks on the side
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| cedarlemon.com

This recipe brings our family together for fun and laughter around the table as everyone enjoys creating their favorite pattern.

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 (per serving)

Calories: 185, Total Fat: 14 g, Carbohydrates: 3 g, Protein: 10 g

This Cheese and Olive Chess Board appetizer showcases vibrant green and black olives with creamy cheese cubes. Pin It
This Cheese and Olive Chess Board appetizer showcases vibrant green and black olives with creamy cheese cubes. | cedarlemon.com

Enjoy this simple yet elegant appetizer at your next gathering to wow your guests with minimal effort.

Recipe Questions & Answers

What cheeses work best for this chessboard?

Aged cheddar and firm mozzarella provide great texture and flavor contrast, but gouda or havarti are good swaps.

Can I use stuffed olives in the arrangement?

Yes, stuffed olives add extra flavor and variety, just ensure allergen safety for guests.

How long does this board stay fresh?

Best served immediately; storing in the fridge for a few hours is fine but avoid long waits to preserve texture.

What are suitable accompaniments?

Serve with crackers, breadsticks, or a crisp white wine to complement the flavors.

Is this suitable for gluten-free diets?

Using gluten-free cheese and avoiding gluten-containing sides makes this board gluten-free friendly.

Cheese and Olive Chessboard

A vibrant board of alternating cheese cubes and olives arranged for a stylish appetizer presentation.

Prep Time
15 min
Cook Duration
1 min
Time Required
16 min
Created by Victoria Reed


Skill Level Easy

Cuisine International

Makes 6 Portions

Special Diets Meat-Free, No Gluten, Reduced Carbs

What You'll Need

Cheese

01 3.5 oz aged cheddar cheese, cut into 0.6 inch cubes
02 3.5 oz firm mozzarella cheese, cut into 0.6 inch cubes

Olives

01 3.5 oz black olives, pitted and drained
02 3.5 oz green olives, pitted and drained

Garnish (optional)

01 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
02 Crackers or breadsticks, for serving

How-To Steps

Step 01

Arrange cheese and olives: Place the cheese cubes and olives alternately on a large square or rectangular platter, creating a chessboard pattern such as cheddar, black olive, mozzarella, green olive.

Step 02

Fill platter: Continue arranging the ingredients in the alternating pattern until the platter is completely filled.

Step 03

Add garnish: Optionally sprinkle chopped fresh parsley evenly over the arranged board for a fresh accent.

Step 04

Serve: Present immediately alongside crackers or breadsticks for serving.

Tools You'll Need

  • Large serving platter or tray
  • Small knife
  • Cutting board

Allergy Notes

Review ingredients for allergens and ask your provider if you have concerns.
  • Contains dairy; verify olives stuffing for allergens if using stuffed varieties. Confirm cheese labels for gluten presence if serving gluten-sensitive guests.

Nutrition Details (each serving)

Details are for general information and not a substitute for professional guidance.
  • Energy: 185
  • Total Fat: 14 g
  • Carbohydrates: 3 g
  • Protein: 10 g