Roman Colosseum Snack Platter (Print version)

A circular platter featuring crackers and olives arranged in a Roman Colosseum style for easy entertaining.

# What You Need:

→ Crackers

01 - 3.5–4.2 oz round or oval crackers (40–50 pieces)

→ Gladiators

02 - 1 cup (150 g) mixed pitted olives (green and black)

→ Garnishes

03 - 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped (optional)
04 - 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil (optional, for drizzling)

→ Accompaniments (optional)

05 - 1.75 oz cubed cheese (aged provolone or mozzarella)
06 - 1.75 oz cherry tomatoes, halved

# How to Make:

01 - Select a large, round serving platter or board to represent the Colosseum base.
02 - Place the crackers upright or slightly overlapping in concentric circles around the platter edge, simulating the Colosseum's tiered seating; create two to three layers as space permits.
03 - Form a mound of mixed olives at the platter's center to symbolize gladiators in the arena.
04 - Surround olives with cubed cheese and halved cherry tomatoes if desired, enhancing color and flavor.
05 - Sprinkle chopped parsley over the olives and drizzle with extra virgin olive oil if using.
06 - Present immediately as an engaging centerpiece for your gathering.

# Expert tips:

01 -
  • Zero cooking means you can throw this together while your guests are still taking off their coats.
  • The visual impact makes people think you spent hours when it honestly took fifteen minutes.
  • It's a conversation starter that tastes as good as it looks, with salty olives and crispy crackers.
02 -
  • Pitted olives are non-negotiable unless you enjoy watching your guests navigate around pits like they're defusing bombs.
  • The crackers should be sturdy enough to hold up without going soft, so avoid thin, delicate ones that will wilt the moment they hit the platter.
03 -
  • Buy pitted olives from a good source—the difference between mediocre and excellent olives is the difference between this being a nice snack and something people actually remember.
  • Arrange everything at the last possible moment before guests arrive so the crackers stay crisp and the presentation looks intentional rather than picked-over.
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