8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, cut into 1 inch cubes
8 ounces monterey jack or swiss cheese, cut into 1 inch cubes
6 ounces turkey pepperoni slices, folded into quarters
1.5 cups green seedless grapes, washed and dried
1 cup red seedless grapes, washed and dried
1 cup cherry tomatoes, kept whole
1 bunch fresh rosemary sprigs, for garnish and structure
1 large yellow bell pepper, for the star topper
1 cup pitted green olives, drained well
1.5 cups assortment of crackers, served on the side or at the base
Instructions
Select a large rectangular wooden board or a flat serving platter. Start at the bottom of the board and place a line of crackers to act as the ground. This gives you a clear starting point for building your tree upward in a triangular shape.
Begin building the bottom layer of the tree using the sharp cheddar cubes, arranging them in a wide row. Above that, create a slightly narrower row of green grapes. Continue alternating layers of different colors and textures, such as the turkey pepperoni, white cheese cubes, and red grapes, gradually narrowing the width of each row as you move toward the top.
Tuck in the cherry tomatoes and green olives in the small spaces between the rows to act as colorful ornaments. This not only makes the tree look more decorated but also ensures that the board looks full and abundant.
Using a star-shaped cookie cutter, or a small paring knife, cut a star shape out of the flat side of your yellow bell pepper. Place this firmly at the very peak of your cheese and fruit triangle to complete the holiday look.
Take your fresh rosemary sprigs and tuck them under the edges of the different layers. The pine-like needles of the rosemary perfectly mimic the look of evergreen branches and provide a wonderful holiday aroma to the entire spread.
