Double Helix Genetic Code (Printable)

Colorful appetizer with olives, tomatoes, cheese, and fresh basil arranged in a twisting double helix shape.

# What You Need:

→ Base Lines

01 - 3.5 oz black olives, pitted and sliced
02 - 3.5 oz cherry tomatoes, halved
03 - 3.5 oz cucumber, cut into thin half-moons
04 - 3.5 oz roasted red peppers, sliced
05 - 3.5 oz smoked salmon or marinated tofu strips (optional)

→ Cheese Rungs

06 - 5.3 oz mozzarella cheese, cut into thin strips or small cubes
07 - 3.5 oz cheddar cheese, cut into thin strips or small cubes

→ Accompaniments

08 - 1.8 oz fresh basil leaves
09 - 1.8 oz crackers or gluten-free crackers (optional)
10 - 1 tbsp olive oil
11 - Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

# How-To Steps:

01 - On a large serving board or platter, create two long, parallel, gently twisting lines using alternating ingredients such as black olives on one line and cherry tomatoes on the other to provide color contrast.
02 - Place additional lines comprising cucumber, roasted red peppers, or smoked salmon/marinated tofu strips alongside to enhance contrast and complete the strands.
03 - Connect the two parallel lines at regular intervals with mozzarella and cheddar strips or cubes arranged perpendicularly to simulate the connecting base pairs of a DNA helix.
04 - Tuck fresh basil leaves along the length of the lines to add color and a fragrant aroma.
05 - Lightly drizzle the arrangement with olive oil and season with freshly ground black pepper to taste.
06 - Present the finished display with crackers or gluten-free crackers on the side if desired.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • It's a showstopper that takes just 25 minutes, so you look like a culinary genius without the stress
  • No cooking required means you can prepare it while chatting with guests or between other tasks
  • It works for science nerds, foodies, kids learning about biology, and anyone who loves edible art
  • Completely customizable to whatever vegetables and cheeses you have on hand
02 -
  • Assemble this no more than 2 to 3 hours before serving, or your tomatoes will start releasing their water and make everything look tired
  • Keep your platter at room temperature until the last minute—cold cheese is stiff and won't drape as beautifully, and vegetables taste better when they're not ice-cold
  • If your mozzarella feels too soft or warm, place it in the refrigerator for just 10 minutes to firm up before cutting and arranging
03 -
  • Use mini skewers or toothpicks to keep your cheese rungs from sliding around—especially helpful if your board is tilted or if you're transporting the platter
  • Buy your peppers and olives ahead, but slice your fresh vegetables the morning of serving to lock in crispness and prevent them from oxidizing
  • The sharper your knife, the cleaner your cuts, and the more professional your helix will look—dull blades crush delicate vegetables
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