The Ultimate Hosting Checkered Cheese Board with Marinated Feta & Olives
Looking for a jaw-dropping centerpiece for your next dinner party, cocktail hour, or holiday gathering? This Checkered Cheese Board is an elegant yet easy way to impress guests. Featuring marinated feta, juicy watermelon cubes, crisp cucumber ribbons, and briny Kalamata olives, this recipe is equal parts flavor-packed and visually stunning.
With minimal prep and just a few fresh ingredients, you can create a restaurant-worthy appetizer board that’s guaranteed to spark conversation and keep guests coming back for more.
Ingredients
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1 block feta cheese
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1 hot house cucumber
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1 small watermelon
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1 bag Freestyle Snacks Kalamata Olives
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SIMPLi Extra Virgin Olive Oil (EVOO)
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SIMPLi Peruvian Herb Salt
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1 fresh lemon
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A handful of fresh herbs: rosemary, oregano, thyme, or basil
Instructions
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Marinate the Feta
Place the block of feta in a shallow dish and cover with extra virgin olive oil. Add the zest and juice of ½ lemon and your choice of fresh herbs. Marinate for at least 4 hours (or overnight for deeper flavor), then cut into bite-sized cubes. -
Prep the Produce
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Cut watermelon into cubes.
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Create cucumber ribbons with a vegetable peeler.
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Set aside on a serving tray.
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Assemble Your Board
Arrange feta and watermelon cubes in a checkerboard pattern for a dramatic visual effect. Weave cucumber ribbons around the squares to add movement and color. -
Add the Final Touches
Scatter Kalamata olives over the board, drizzle with more olive oil, squeeze fresh lemon juice, and sprinkle with herb salt. -
Serve & Impress
Pair with cocktail skewers for easy snacking. This board pairs beautifully with wine, mocktails, or sparkling water — perfect for entertaining and celebrations.
