Description
Zesty Mediterranean Marinated Cheese brings bold flavors together in one irresistible bite. Tangy herbs, rich cheese, and savory salami create a perfect party starter you’ll want to savor again and again.
Ingredients
Scale
Cheeses:
- 8 ounces (226 grams) block of sharp cheddar cheese, cut into cubes
- 8 ounces (226 grams) block of pepper jack cheese, cut into cubes
Marinade and Seasonings:
- 1/4 cup (60 milliliters) olive oil
- 1/4 cup (60 milliliters) white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
Accompaniments:
- 1/2 cup (75 grams) sliced salami, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup (75 grams) small pickles (cornichons or dill pickles), sliced
- Fresh herbs, like parsley or basil, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare a zesty marinade by combining olive oil, vinegar, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a mixing bowl, whisking until thoroughly blended.
- Gently fold cheese cubes into the marinade, ensuring each piece is evenly coated and infused with flavors.
- Refrigerate the marinating cheese for 30 minutes to 2 hours, allowing the herbs and seasonings to penetrate deeply.
- Select a serving platter and artfully arrange the marinated cheese cubes as the centerpiece.
- Surround the cheese with carefully layered salami slices, creating an elegant and appetizing presentation.
- Intersperse crisp pickle pieces between the salami and cheese for contrasting textures and tangy notes.
- Enhance the visual appeal and flavor profile by sprinkling fresh chopped herbs like parsley or basil over the entire appetizer.
- Serve immediately at room temperature, offering crackers or crusty bread on the side for guests to create their own delightful combinations.
- Store any remaining appetizer in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours, ensuring maximum freshness and flavor retention.
Notes
- Marinate cheese longer for deeper flavor infusion, allowing herbs and spices to fully penetrate the cheese.
- Use different cheese varieties like feta, mozzarella, or goat cheese to create unique taste profiles and textures.
- Customize the appetizer for dietary needs by selecting gluten-free crackers or replacing salami with vegetarian protein alternatives.
- Prep ingredients in advance and store separately to maintain optimal texture and prevent soggy appetizers.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Snacks
- Method: Marinating
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 293 kcal
- Sugar: 0.5 g
- Sodium: 500 mg
- Fat: 26 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
- Trans Fat: 0.2 g
- Carbohydrates: 2 g
- Fiber: 0.5 g
- Protein: 14 g
- Cholesterol: 45 mg