Vibrant holiday board layering grapes, olives, kiwi, and colorful accents for a festive centerpiece.
# Ingredients:
→ Tree Base
01 - 2 cups green grapes, washed and dried
02 - 2 cups large green olives, pitted
03 - 4–5 ripe kiwis, peeled and sliced into thin rounds
→ Ornaments & Decorations
04 - 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
05 - 1/3 cup pomegranate arils
06 - 1/2 cup fresh blueberries
07 - 1/2 cup mini mozzarella balls (bocconcini)
08 - 15–20 small fresh basil leaves
09 - 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced to form star shape
10 - 1/4 cup dried cranberries
→ Garnishes & Extras
11 - 1/4 cup mixed nuts (pistachios and almonds), optional
12 - 1/4 cup fresh rosemary sprigs
13 - Crackers, sliced baguette, or breadsticks, for serving
# Directions:
01 - Select a large rectangular or triangular board (minimum 18 x 12 inches). Clean and dry thoroughly. Wash and dry all fruits and vegetables. Peel the kiwis and slice into 1/4-inch rounds. Pat grapes and olives dry with paper towel. Slice yellow bell pepper horizontally to create a star shape using a cookie cutter or paring knife. Set aside.
02 - Visualize a tall triangle at the board's center. Lightly outline its edges with fresh rosemary sprigs for guidance and aromatic effect. Begin layering from the base upward, alternating rows of green grapes, green olives, and kiwi slices. Arrange each in tight, overlapping rows to fully cover the triangle, mimicking dense foliage. Press pieces gently for stability and avoid gaps to ensure fullness.
03 - Evenly distribute halved cherry tomatoes, pomegranate arils, blueberries, mini mozzarella balls, and dried cranberries over the layered tree to create the appearance of ornaments. Tuck basil leaves throughout for color and holly-like accents. Place the yellow bell pepper star at the triangle's top center attractively.
04 - Sprinkle mixed nuts and additional rosemary sprigs around the base for texture and aroma. Arrange crackers, sliced baguette, or breadsticks along the board’s sides or bottom to facilitate serving. Clean edges of the board to remove any stray juices or crumbs for a neat presentation.
05 - Serve immediately or cover loosely with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 2 hours. Remove from refrigerator 10 minutes prior to serving to enhance flavor and aroma.
