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Cheese Olive Chess Board

Featured in: Quick Flavor Pops

This appetizer showcases cubes of aged cheddar and firm mozzarella cheeses paired with black and green olives, arranged in a chessboard pattern on a large platter. Garnished optionally with fresh parsley and served with crackers or breadsticks, it’s a simple yet elegant dish ideal for parties and gatherings. The combination balances creamy textures and briny flavors, making it an easy, no-cook option perfect for quick preparation.

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Updated on Wed, 10 Dec 2025 16:25:00 GMT
A vibrant Cheese and Olive Chess Board presenting a visually appealing appetizer on a party platter. Save
A vibrant Cheese and Olive Chess Board presenting a visually appealing appetizer on a party platter. | fizznib.com

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

This has become my go-to appetizer when entertaining guests, always a crowd-pleaser.

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
Delectable Cheese and Olive Chess Board, perfect for sharing, with alternating cheese and olive squares. Save
Delectable Cheese and Olive Chess Board, perfect for sharing, with alternating cheese and olive squares. | fizznib.com

A family favorite at every gathering bringing everyone together around this simple yet elegant appetizer

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

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

Freshly arranged Cheese and Olive Chess Board, showcasing a classic party snack with a variety of textures. Save
Freshly arranged Cheese and Olive Chess Board, showcasing a classic party snack with a variety of textures. | fizznib.com

This appetizer is as beautiful as it is delicious a guaranteed showstopper for any occasion

Cooking Guide

→ What cheeses work best for this dish?

Aged cheddar and firm mozzarella work wonderfully, but semi-firm cheeses like gouda or havarti can also be used.

→ Can I use different types of olives?

Yes, black and green olives are ideal, but stuffed olives can add extra flavor complexity.

→ How should I arrange the cubes and olives?

Arrange the cubes and olives alternately on a square or rectangular platter to create a checkerboard effect.

→ Is there a garnish recommended?

Freshly chopped parsley can be sprinkled on top for a bright, fresh touch.

→ What can I serve alongside this board?

Crackers or breadsticks pair well, providing a crunchy contrast to the cheese and olives.

Cheese Olive Chess Board

Alternating cubes of cheddar, mozzarella, and olives arranged in a visually striking chessboard pattern.

Setup duration
15 min
Heat duration
1 min
Complete duration
16 min
Created by Chloe Bennett


Complexity Easy

Heritage International

Output 6 Portions

Nutrition Categories Meat-Free, No Gluten, Carb-Conscious

Components

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

Method

Phase 01

Arrange chessboard pattern: Place cheese cubes and olives alternately on a large square or rectangular platter to create a chessboard effect, alternating cheddar, black olives, mozzarella, and green olives in sequence.

Phase 02

Complete the layout: Continue positioning until the entire platter is covered, maintaining the alternating pattern consistently.

Phase 03

Add garnish: Optionally, sprinkle finely chopped parsley over the arranged board to enhance freshness and color.

Phase 04

Serve: Present immediately alongside crackers or breadsticks for accompaniment.

Kitchen Tools

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

Sensitivity Guide

Review ingredients carefully for potential allergens and seek professional medical guidance if uncertain.
  • Contains dairy from cheese. Check stuffed olives for additional allergens. Verify cheese label for gluten content if serving gluten-sensitive individuals.

Dietary Information (per portion)

Values shown are estimates only - consult healthcare providers for specific advice.
  • Energy: 185
  • Fats: 14 g
  • Carbohydrates: 3 g
  • Proteins: 10 g