Indulging in skewered cheese and olives is like taking a flavorful trip to the Mediterranean without leaving your kitchen. The salty bite of olives pairs perfectly with rich, creamy cheese, creating an irresistible combination that dances on your palate. Picture this: golden-brown, slightly charred cheese mingling with juicy olives, all skewered together, ready to be devoured at your next gathering.
I remember the first time I served skewered cheese and olives at a family barbecue. The crowd went wild! My aunt even exclaimed it was “better than a Mediterranean vacation.” Who knew such simple ingredients could bring so much joy? These delightful bites are perfect for parties, picnics, or just a cozy evening at home while watching your favorite series.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The ease of preparation means you can whip these up in no time
- Packed with flavor, these skewers will impress even the pickiest eaters
- Visually appealing with vibrant colors, they enhance any table setting
- Ideal for any occasion, from casual get-togethers to elegant soirées
Sharing skewered cheese and olives always brings smiles and compliments from guests. It never fails to spark laughter as we reminisce about past gatherings.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Cheese Cubes: Use a firm cheese like feta or cheddar; they hold up well on skewers.
Olives: Choose green or black olives based on your preference; both add delightful flavors.
Wooden Skewers: Soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning while grilling.
Olive Oil: A drizzle will enhance the flavors and keep everything moist during cooking.
Fresh Herbs: Basil or oregano adds an aromatic touch that elevates the taste profile.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Gather Your Ingredients: Start by assembling all ingredients on your kitchen counter. This way, everything is within reach as you prepare these delightful skewers.
Prepare the Skewers: Take your wooden skewers and soak them in water for about 30 minutes. This prevents them from catching fire on the grill and ensures they hold together nicely.
Assemble the Skewers: Thread one olive followed by a cube of cheese onto each skewer. Alternate between olives and cheese until you fill each skewer, leaving space at the ends for easy handling.
Drizzle with Olive Oil: Place the assembled skewers on a plate and lightly drizzle olive oil over them. Make sure each piece gets a little love from that glorious liquid gold.
Season with Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle fresh herbs over the skewers for added flavor. You can use basil or oregano depending on what tickles your fancy.
Grill to Perfection: Preheat your grill to medium heat and place the skewers directly on it. Grill for about 5-7 minutes until the cheese starts to melt slightly and takes on those beautiful grill marks.
Enjoying skewered cheese and olives is not just about taste; it’s an experience filled with laughter, stories, and delightful flavors that linger long after the last bite has been savored!
You Must Know
- Skewered cheese and olives are not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare
- The combination of creamy cheese and savory olives creates a flavor explosion that’s perfect for any occasion
- Plus, they make for an impressive appetizer at parties!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by soaking your skewers in water for about 30 minutes. This prevents them from burning when grilled. Then, thread the olives and cheese onto the skewers, alternating for a beautiful presentation. Grill on medium heat until the cheese is slightly melted.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to experiment with different cheeses and olives! Feta, goat cheese, or marinated mozzarella can add unique flavors. You can also drizzle olive oil or sprinkle herbs like oregano for an extra kick.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in a microwave or briefly on the grill to avoid overcooking the cheese.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Using fresh herbs can elevate the flavor profile of skewered cheese and olives significantly
- Choose quality ingredients to enhance your dish’s taste and texture, ensuring satisfaction with every bite!
I remember the first time I made skewered cheese and olives for a family gathering; everyone devoured them in minutes! It felt fantastic to see my loved ones enjoying something I whipped up so quickly.
FAQ
What type of cheese works best for skewered cheese and olives?
Soft cheeses like feta or mozzarella work wonderfully due to their creaminess.
Can I use different types of olives?
Absolutely! Green, black, or even stuffed olives can add variety to your skewers.
How long can I leave skewered cheese and olives out?
It’s best to keep them at room temperature for no longer than two hours.
Skewered Cheese and Olives
Indulge in the Mediterranean flavors of skewered cheese and olives, a delightful appetizer perfect for gatherings or cozy nights in. These simple yet flavorful skewers feature creamy cheese paired with briny olives, grilled to perfection and drizzled with olive oil. Ideal for impressing guests or enjoying as a snack, this easy recipe will surely be a hit at any occasion.
- Total Time: 17 minutes
- Yield: Serves 5 (10 skewers) 1x
Ingredients
- 1 cup firm cheese cubes (feta or cheddar)
- 1 cup olives (green or black)
- 10 wooden skewers
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp fresh herbs (basil or oregano)
Instructions
- Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning.
- Alternate threading olives and cheese cubes onto each skewer, leaving space at the ends.
- Drizzle assembled skewers with olive oil and sprinkle fresh herbs on top.
- Grill on medium heat for 5-7 minutes until cheese is slightly melted and grill marks appear.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 7 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 skewers (60g)
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
