Easy Marinated Cheese Appetizer with Salami & Pickles Recipe
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.
- 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
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
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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
