Appetizers & Starters > Cheese-Based Starters > Cheese Platters > Cheese and Nut Tray

Mediterranean Cheese and Nut Tray with Olive Tapenade

Transport your taste buds to the Mediterranean with this flavorful cheese and nut tray. Featuring feta, halloumi, and marinated mozzarella, paired with pistachios, almonds, olives, and a homemade olive tapenade. Serve with pita bread or crusty bread for a complete experience.

Prep Time
25 minutes
Cook Time
5 minutes
Servings
6-8
Ingredients
  • 4 oz Feta Cheese
  • 4 oz Halloumi Cheese
  • 8 oz Marinated Mozzarella Balls (Bocconcini)
  • 1/2 cup Pistachios
  • 1/2 cup Almonds
  • 1/2 cup Kalamata Olives
  • 1/2 cup Green Olives
  • 1 cup Pitted Kalamata Olives
  • 2 cloves Garlic
  • 2 tbsp Capers
  • 2 tbsp Fresh Parsley
  • 1/4 cup Olive Oil
  • 1 tbsp Lemon Juice
  • as needed Pita Bread or Crusty Bread

Prepare the Olive Tapenade

In a food processor, combine the pitted Kalamata olives, garlic, capers, and fresh parsley. Pulse until coarsely chopped. Gradually add the olive oil and lemon juice, processing until a paste forms. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. The olive tapenade adds a salty and briny flavor to the tray.

Cook the Halloumi

Slice the halloumi cheese into 1/4-inch thick pieces. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Cook the halloumi slices for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown. Halloumi has a high melting point and holds its shape well when cooked.

Arrange the Cheeses

Select a large serving platter or wooden board. Arrange the feta cheese, cooked halloumi, and marinated mozzarella balls on the platter, leaving space between each cheese. Crumble the feta if desired.

Add the Nuts and Olives

Scatter the pistachios, almonds, Kalamata olives, and green olives around the cheeses. Distribute them evenly to create a visually appealing arrangement. The nuts provide a crunchy texture, while the olives add a salty and savory element.

Serve with Tapenade and Bread

Spoon the olive tapenade into a small bowl and place it on the platter. Serve the Mediterranean cheese and nut tray immediately with pita bread or crusty bread. Encourage guests to spread the tapenade on the bread and enjoy it with the cheeses and nuts.

← Mediterranean Cheese and Fruit Skewers with Mint-Honey Drizzle Spicy Cheddar & Jalapeño Cheese Balls →

FAQ

  • Can I use different types of olives?

    Yes, you can use any olives you prefer. Consider using a mix of different colors and flavors for added visual appeal.
  • Can I make the olive tapenade ahead of time?

    Yes, the olive tapenade can be made up to 2 days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Bring to room temperature before serving.
  • What if I don't have halloumi?

    If you can't find halloumi, you can substitute it with paneer cheese. Paneer is another cheese that holds its shape well when cooked. You can also omit it altogether.