Description
The Ultimate Holiday Grazing Wreath is a delightful centerpiece perfect for any festive gathering, featuring an array of delicious cheeses, cured meats, and vibrant fruits.
Ingredients
- 1 wheel brie, cut into wedges
- 1 cup aged cheddar, cubed
- 1 small goat cheese log, sliced
- ½ cup blue cheese crumbles
- 6 slices prosciutto, folded into ribbons
- 10 slices salami, folded in halves or quarters
- 1 cup red and green grapes
- 4 fresh figs, halved
- ½ cup cranberries or pomegranate arils
- ¼ cup almonds
- ¼ cup walnuts
- Crackers and breadsticks (about 1½ cups total)
- ⅓ cup mixed olives (green and black)
- 10–12 fresh rosemary sprigs (for wreath base)
Instructions
-
Create the Wreath Base
Begin by forming the backbone of your wreath: the rosemary base. Arrange 10-12 fresh rosemary sprigs in a circular shape on your chosen platter or cutting board. Overlapping the sprigs slightly will create a fuller appearance, which gives the wreath texture and an aromatic scent that brightens your gathering spot.
-
Place the Cheese
Now it’s time to showcase the stars of the show—your cheeses! Space out the brie, aged cheddar, goat cheese, and blue cheese evenly around the wreath. Think about visual balance as you arrange these components; grouping types together can also create contrast that draws the eye. Allow the brie to be a focal point since its creamy texture will contrast beautifully with the firmer cheeses.
-
Add Meats
Next, it’s time to incorporate the cured meats. Arrange six slices of folded prosciutto and 10 slices of salami in between the cheese sections. This adds not only flavor but a delightful pop of color with the deep reds and pinks of the meats. Feel free to tuck or layer the meats to create a more rustic look that appeals to the palate.
-
Fill with Fresh Fruit
Inject sweetness into your wreath by filling any gaps with fresh fruit. Place red and green grapes, halved figs, and cranberries or pomegranate arils around the wreath for bursts of juicy color and flavor. This combination enhances the overall taste experience while providing a vibrant appearance that lifts the arrangement.
-
Add Texture
To create dimension and interest, sprinkle in whole almonds and walnuts throughout the wreath. These nuts provide a crunchy contrast to the creamy cheeses and soft fruits. Adding olives at this stage offers brininess, enhancing the flavor profile even further.
-
Finish with Crackers
Finally, fill in any lingering empty spaces with an assortment of crackers and breadsticks. These elements are essential, providing a satisfying crunch and an opportunity for guests to enjoy the cheese and meats together. Make sure to explore different shapes and sizes for variety and visual appeal.
Notes
Grazing wreath can be customized with various ingredients based on personal preferences.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes (no cooking required)
- Category: Appetizer
Nutrition
- Calories: Approx. 250 per serving
- Sodium: 300 mg per serving
- Protein: 8 g per serving