8 ounces white cheddar or monterey jack cheese, cut into cubes
6 ounces smoked beef salami, thinly sliced and folded
6 ounces turkey pepperoni, sliced
2 cups green grapes
1 cup fresh blackberries
1/2 cup pomegranate seeds
1/2 cup roasted almonds or walnuts
1 bunch fresh rosemary sprigs
1 yellow bell pepper, cut into a star shape
1 box assorted crackers, served on the side
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Base and Board Choose a large rectangular wooden board or a flat platter. Start at the bottom by placing a row of crackers or a small bowl of nuts to act as the tree trunk. This provides a solid foundation for the triangular shape you are about to build.
Step 2: Create the First Layer Begin forming the bottom of the tree by laying a wide horizontal row of green grapes. Make sure the row is centered and slightly wider than the trunk. This defines the width of your Christmas tree.
Step 3: Build the Meat and Cheese Tiers Above the grapes, add a row of white cheddar cubes. Follow this with a row of folded beef salami. Continue layering upward, narrowing each row slightly as you go. Add the sharp cheddar cubes next, followed by a row of turkey pepperoni.
Step 4: Add Colors and Fill Gaps Place a row of blackberries and another row of cheese to continue the taper. Fill in any small gaps between the rows with pomegranates or nuts. This adds texture and ensures the board looks lush and full.
Step 5: Garnish and Top the Tree Tuck small sprigs of fresh rosemary between the rows to mimic the look of pine branches. Finally, place your yellow bell pepper star at the very top of the triangle. Serve immediately or chill until guests arrive.
