Easy Marinated Cheese Appetizer with Salami & Pickles Recipe

Introduction

This easy marinated cheese appetizer combines sharp cheddar and pepper jack cheeses with savory salami and tangy pickles. It’s a flavorful, no-cook dish perfect for parties or casual gatherings that comes together in minutes but tastes like you spent hours preparing.

Ingredients

• 8 oz block of sharp cheddar cheese, cut into cubes
• 8 oz block of pepper jack cheese, cut into cubes
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar
• 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/2 cup sliced salami, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1/2 cup small pickles (cornichons or dill), sliced
• Fresh herbs, like parsley or basil, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Prepare the marinade by whisking together olive oil, vinegar, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a large bowl until well combined.
2. Step 2: Taste the marinade and adjust salt and pepper as needed before adding the cheese.
3. Step 3: Add the cubed cheddar and pepper jack cheese to the marinade, ensuring every piece is coated thoroughly.
4. Step 4: Let the cheese marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to two hours in the fridge for richer flavor, stirring occasionally.
5. Step 5: Remove the marinated cheese and arrange the cubes on a serving platter, alternating with salami pieces and sliced pickles for a balanced presentation.
6. Step 6: Garnish with fresh herbs if desired, and serve immediately with crackers or crusty bread.

Tips & Variations

• Taste the marinade before adding cheese to ensure the seasoning is balanced.
• Stir the marinating cheese occasionally to promote even flavor absorption.
• Use a mix of colorful cheeses or add cherry tomatoes for visual interest.
• Serve with your favorite crackers or fresh baguette slices for added texture.
• Try substituting the salami with prosciutto or another cured meat for variety.

Storage

Store any leftover marinated cheese and accompaniments in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To enjoy again, serve chilled or let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving. Avoid reheating as it is best served cold or at room temperature.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of cheese?

Yes, feel free to substitute cheddar and pepper jack with other firm cheeses like gouda, mozzarella, or Monterey Jack. Choose cheeses that hold shape when cubed and marinated.

How long should I marinate the cheese?

At least 30 minutes is needed for the flavors to develop, but marinating for up to two hours in the fridge will give a richer, more pronounced taste. Avoid marinating longer than a few hours to keep the cheese texture intact.

Easy Marinated Cheese Appetizer with Salami & Pickles Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.6 from 110 reviews

This Easy Marinated Cheese Appetizer with Salami & Pickles is a flavorful and visually appealing dish perfect for parties and gatherings. Cubes of sharp cheddar and pepper jack cheese are gently marinated in a zesty blend of olive oil, vinegar, and Italian seasoning, then combined with bite-sized salami pieces and tangy pickles. Garnished with fresh herbs, it offers a delightful mix of textures and tastes, perfect for serving with crackers or crusty bread.

• Author: Clara
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Cheese

• 8 oz block of sharp cheddar cheese, cut into cubes
• 8 oz block of pepper jack cheese, cut into cubes

Marinade

• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar
• 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Additions

• 1/2 cup sliced salami, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1/2 cup small pickles (cornichons or dill pickles), sliced

Garnish (optional)

• Fresh herbs, like parsley or basil

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, vinegar, dried Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined. Taste the marinade and adjust seasoning as needed before adding the cheese.
2. Marinate the Cheese: Add the cubed cheddar and pepper jack cheese into the marinade. Toss gently to ensure every piece is fully coated. Let the cheese marinate for at least 30 minutes at room temperature, or up to two hours in the refrigerator for deeper flavor. Stir occasionally during marination to coat evenly.
3. Assemble the Platter: Remove the cheese cubes from the marinade and arrange them artfully on a serving platter. Distribute the bite-sized salami pieces and sliced pickles around the cheese, alternating shapes and colors for an eye-catching presentation.
4. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle fresh herbs such as parsley or basil over the platter to add color and freshness. Serve immediately with crackers or crusty bread for added crunch and enjoyment.

Notes

• Adjust salt and pepper in the marinade to your taste before adding cheese to avoid over-seasoning.
• You can refrigerate the marinated cheese for up to 2 hours to intensify flavors; just bring it back to room temperature before serving.
• Use a variety of pickles to add a nice tang and texture contrast.
• For a spicier twist, add crushed red pepper flakes to the marinade.
• This appetizer pairs well with a crisp white wine or a light beer.

Keywords: marinated cheese appetizer, salami cheese platter, easy party appetizer, cheese and salami, marinated cheese cubes