Roman Colosseum Snack Platter (Printable)

Italian-inspired snack with crackers arranged circularly and mixed olives at the center.

# What You'll Need:

→ Crackers

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

→ Gladiators

02 - 1 cup (approximately 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 - 1.8 oz cubed cheese (such as aged provolone or mozzarella)
06 - 1.8 oz cherry tomatoes, halved

# How To Make It:

01 - Select a large, round serving platter or board to resemble the base of the Colosseum.
02 - Place crackers upright or slightly overlapping in concentric circles around the platter’s edge to simulate tiered seating, building two to three layers if space permits.
03 - Heap the mixed olives at the center of the platter to represent gladiators in the arena.
04 - Distribute cubed cheese and halved cherry tomatoes around the olives for added color and flavor, if desired.
05 - Sprinkle chopped parsley over the olives and gently drizzle with extra virgin olive oil, if using.
06 - Present immediately as a playful, interactive centerpiece suitable for gatherings.

# Expert Suggestions:

01 -
  • It takes 15 minutes but looks like you spent an hour planning, which means you can finally relax and enjoy your guests.
  • Everyone gets to nibble and chat without committing to a full bite of anything, making it perfect for mingling.
  • The circular arrangement becomes an instant conversation starter and totally transforms the vibe of a gathering.
02 -
  • Pit your olives ahead of time—guests should never have to spit pits into a napkin while trying to navigate a cracker, and it changes the entire experience from fussy to seamless.
  • The crackers will soften slightly as the platter sits, especially near the olives, so assemble this no more than 30 minutes before serving if you want that satisfying crunch to last through the party.
03 -
  • Set out the platter at room temperature so all the flavors are at their peak, and any oils can coat your palate properly without the numbing effect of cold.
  • If you're making this for a larger crowd, assemble two smaller platters instead of one giant one—it prevents the center from getting picked clean while the edges languish untouched.
Return