Description
Easy Marinated Cheese Appetizer with Salami & Pickles
Ingredients:
8 oz block of sharp cheddar cheese, cut into cubes
8 oz block of pepper jack cheese, cut into cubes
¼ cup olive oil
¼ cup white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar
1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
½ tsp garlic powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
½ cup sliced salami, cut into bite-sized pieces
½ cup small pickles (e.g., cornichons or dill pickles), sliced
Fresh herbs (parsley or basil) for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
Marinate the Cheese: In a bowl, whisk together the olive oil, vinegar, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Add the cheese cubes and toss to coat. Cover and let marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours.
Assemble the Appetizer: Arrange the marinated cheese cubes on a serving platter. Surround the cheese with bite-sized salami pieces and sliced pickles for a visually appealing display.
Garnish: Sprinkle with fresh herbs for added flavor and color.
Serve with crackers and enjoy this easy, flavorful appetizer with friends and family!
Prep Time: 15 mins (plus marinating)
Kcal: 150 per serving | Servings: 8
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Prepare the Cheese: Cut the 8 oz blocks of sharp cheddar and pepper jack cheese into uniform, bite-sized cubes, roughly ¾-inch in size. This ensures even marinating and easy eating.
2. Make the Marinade: In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together ¼ cup olive oil and ¼ cup white wine vinegar until emulsified. Whisk in 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning, ½ tsp garlic powder, and salt and pepper to taste.
3. Marinate: Add all cheese cubes to the bowl with the marinade. Gently toss with a spoon until every piece is thoroughly coated. Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for a minimum of 30 minutes. For deeper flavor, marinate for up to 2 hours, gently stirring once halfway through.
4. Prepare Toppings: While the cheese marinates, slice ½ cup of salami into small triangles or bite-sized pieces. Slice ½ cup of small pickles into rounds or spears.
5. Assemble: Using a slotted spoon, transfer the marinated cheese cubes to a serving platter, letting excess marinade drip off. Arrange the salami and pickles attractively around the cheese. Drizzle a small amount of the remaining marinade over the platter for extra gloss and flavor.
6. Final Touch: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil for a pop of color.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this appetizer with a variety of crackers, crusty bread slices, or toasted baguette rounds. For a larger spread, pair it with other antipasti like marinated olives, roasted red peppers, and artichoke hearts. It’s perfect for picnics when packed in a sealed container, or as an elegant starter on a cheese board alongside fruits like grapes or figs.
How-to Summary
Cut cheese into cubes. Whisk oil, vinegar, and seasonings to create a marinade. Toss cheese in marinade and refrigerate for 30+ minutes. Prepare salami and pickles. Arrange all components on a platter, garnish, and serve with crackers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this appetizer ahead of time? Yes, you can marinate the cheese up to 2 hours in advance. Assemble the full platter just before serving to prevent the pickles from making the cheese soggy.
What are good cheese substitutes? Monterey Jack, Colby, or a firm mozzarella work well. Avoid very soft cheeses as they may fall apart in the marinade.
Can I use a different vinegar? Absolutely. Apple cider vinegar is a great alternative. Red wine vinegar or a mild balsamic vinegar can also be used for a different flavor profile.
How should I store leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The cheese may firm up slightly when chilled.
Is there a substitute for salami? Yes, prosciutto, soppressata, or even smoked turkey are excellent substitutes for a different twist.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid marinating the cheese for longer than 2-3 hours, as the acid in the vinegar can begin to break down the cheese, making it rubbery. Do not use pre-shredded cheese, as it lacks the structural integrity needed for cubing and marinating. Ensure all components are patted dry before assembling to keep the platter neat. Finally, do not skip the resting/marinating time, as it is crucial for flavor development.
Conclusion
This Marinated Cheese Appetizer with Salami & Pickles is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that masterfully balances rich, tangy, and savory flavors. Its simplicity is its strength, requiring minimal hands-on time for a maximum flavor payoff. Whether for a casual gathering or a festive holiday party, this easy-to-assemble dish offers a delicious and visually appealing start to any meal. Experiment with different cheeses and meats to make it your own signature starter.