Ladybug Tomato Olive Bites

Adorable and vibrant, these whimsical snacks combine juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy cheese, and briny olives for a fun and healthy appetizer that delights both kids and adults.

I love making these ladybug tomato & olive bites because they bring smiles to my family's faces and are so easy to prepare.

Ingredients

• Base: 8 round crackers (gluten-free if needed), 4 oz (115 g) cream cheese or herbed soft cheese
• Ladybug Bodies: 16 cherry tomatoes
• Ladybug Heads & Spots: 8 black olives (pitted, large) halved, 1 tablespoon black sesame seeds or balsamic glaze (for spots)
• Garnish: 16 small fresh basil leaves

Instructions

Step 1:

Spread a generous layer of cream cheese onto each cracker.

Step 2:

Place a basil leaf onto the cheese on each cracker.

Step 3:

Slice each cherry tomato in half lengthwise.

Step 4:

Place one tomato half, cut side down, onto each cracker to form the ladybug body.

Step 5:

Attach a black olive half to one end of the tomato to create the ladybugs head.

Step 6:

Using a toothpick, dot small spots on the tomato backs with balsamic glaze or carefully press on a few black sesame seeds to resemble ladybug spots.

Step 7:

Arrange the bites on a serving platter and serve immediately.

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This recipe always brings my family together, especially when the kids help make the ladybug spots.

Required Tools

Small knife, spreader or butter knife, toothpick

Allergen Information

Contains Milk (from cheese), Gluten (from crackers unless gluten-free), Sesame (if using sesame seeds). Check all packaging for potential traces of allergens.

Nutritional Information

Per serving (2 bites): Calories 95, Total Fat 6 g, Carbohydrates 8 g, Protein 2 g

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These delightful bites are perfect for parties or a quick snack, bringing fun and flavor to any occasion.

Recipe Questions & Answers

→ What type of cheese works best for these bites?

Cream cheese or herbed soft cheese provides a smooth base, but goat cheese or plant-based alternatives work well for varied flavors.

→ Can I substitute the crackers used as the base?

Yes, gluten-free, whole-grain, or seed crackers can be used to add texture and accommodate dietary needs.

→ How do I create the ladybug spots on these bites?

Use black sesame seeds or balsamic glaze dots on the tomato halves to mimic charming spots.

→ Are there vegan options for this snack?

Plant-based soft cheeses or hummus can replace dairy cheese to make these bites vegan-friendly.

→ What occasions suit these colorful bites?

They’re perfect for light appetizers, kids’ snacks, parties, or any gathering needing a fun, fresh option.