Roman Colosseum Snack Platter (Printable)

Italian-inspired snack platter featuring crackers and olives arranged in a circular, eye-catching display.

# What You'll Need:

→ Crackers

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

→ Gladiators

02 - 1 cup mixed olives (green and black, pitted, about 5.3 oz)

→ Garnishes

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

→ Accompaniments

05 - 1.8 oz cubed aged provolone or mozzarella cheese (optional)
06 - 1.8 oz cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)

# Step-by-Step Guide:

01 - Select a large, round serving platter or board to represent the Colosseum base.
02 - Position crackers upright or slightly overlapping in concentric circles around the platter edge, forming two or three layers to mimic the Colosseum's tiers.
03 - Pile the mixed olives into a mound at the center of the platter, symbolizing gladiators in the arena.
04 - Optionally, distribute cubed cheese and halved cherry tomatoes around the olives for added color and flavor.
05 - Sprinkle chopped parsley over the olives and drizzle with extra virgin olive oil if desired.
06 - Present immediately as a vibrant and interactive centerpiece for your gathering.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • It takes fifteen minutes but looks like you spent hours planning a showstopper.
  • There's something deeply satisfying about eating from a platter that's also a work of art.
  • It works for everything from casual weeknight gatherings to more intentional dinner parties.
02 -
  • Arrange your platter no more than thirty minutes before serving, or the crackers will begin absorbing moisture and lose their satisfying snap.
  • Pitted olives are essential—there's nothing worse than a guest biting into a pit when they're reaching for what looks like a simple snack.
03 -
  • Arrange your platter as close to serving time as possible so crackers stay crisp and don't absorb any moisture from the olives or olive oil.
  • Use a large enough platter that you can build at least three full concentric circles—the more rings, the more architectural impact and the more satisfying it is to look at.
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