Easy Marinated Cheese Appetizer with Salami & Pickles

Introduction

When it comes to hosting gatherings, I always look for appetizers that not only please the palate but are also easy to prepare. This Easy Marinated Cheese Appetizer with Salami and Pickles has become a family favorite. The combination of creamy Havarti cheese, savory salami, and tangy cornichons creates a delightful explosion of flavors that keeps everyone coming back for more. My family loves how the ingredients marinate together, enhancing the taste with every bite. It’s a dish that pairs beautifully with a glass of wine or a refreshing beverage, making it the perfect addition to any party or casual gathering.

Ingredients

• Havarti Cheese (6 oz): Choose a high-quality Havarti cheese, such as Roth Original, known for its creamy, mild flavor. Dice it into bite-sized cubes (around ½-inch) to ensure every bite includes a smooth, rich texture. Havarti melts slightly as it marinates, absorbing flavors well.
• Sun-Dried Tomatoes (½ cup): Use oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes for the best texture and flavor. Their slightly sweet, tangy taste adds depth to the dish. If they are too large, chop them into smaller pieces to distribute throughout the appetizer.
• Salami (1 cup): Select a good-quality salami that complements the cheese. Cut into cubes similar in size to the cheese. Salami’s meaty, savory taste provides a nice contrast with the creamy Havarti. You can use hard salami, Genoa, or any favorite cured salami variety.
• Cornichons (½ cup): Cornichons are small, tangy pickles with a crisp bite that balances the rich, savory ingredients. If cornichons are unavailable, you can substitute with small, tart pickles and dice them similarly.
• Castelvetrano Olives (½ cup): Known for their mild, buttery taste, Castelvetrano olives add a mellow, briny element that doesn’t overpower the other flavors. You can find them pitted; if not, remove the pits and chop them into bite-sized pieces. Substitute with green or mild black olives if desired.
• Fresh Basil (2 tbsp): Fresh basil brings a light sweetness and herbal aroma that brightens the entire dish. Chop roughly, leaving some larger pieces for a beautiful presentation and balanced flavor.
• Garlic Vinaigrette (1 cup): Garlic Expressions is recommended for its garlicky, tangy profile, but any high-quality Italian-style vinaigrette works well. The vinaigrette acts as a marinade, coating each ingredient with flavor. Ensure it has a garlicky and slightly acidic taste to balance the richness of the cheese and salami.

Instructions

Step 1: Combine the Ingredients 🥄

In a medium mixing bowl, add the Havarti cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, salami, cornichons, and Castelvetrano olives. Gently toss them together to evenly distribute the ingredients. The balance of textures and flavors is what makes this appetizer so delightful, from the creaminess of the Havarti to the crisp bite of the cornichons.

Step 2: Add Fresh Basil 🌿

Roughly chop about 2 tablespoons of fresh basil and add it to the bowl. Fresh basil provides a hint of sweetness and a pop of color that enhances the look and taste of the dish. This addition is crucial for that authentic, Italian-inspired flavor.

Step 3: Pour in the Vinaigrette 🧄

Add 1 cup of Garlic Expressions or your favorite Italian-style vinaigrette. The dressing will serve as a marinade, infusing each ingredient with a rich, tangy, and slightly garlicky flavor profile. If you don’t have Garlic Expressions on hand, any high-quality Italian vinaigrette will work beautifully.

Step 4: Mix and Transfer 🥣

Use a large spoon to gently stir all the ingredients until they’re well mixed and coated with the vinaigrette. This step ensures that the dressing seeps into every nook and cranny, so you get a burst of flavor in each bite. Next, transfer the mixture to a mason jar or cover the mixing bowl tightly with plastic wrap.

Step 5: Refrigerate and Marinate ❄️

Place the covered mixture in the fridge. You can serve this dish right away, but for best results, let it marinate for at least 1–2 hours, or even overnight. This allows the flavors to blend, making each ingredient even more delicious. The appetizer can last in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week, so it’s perfect for prepping ahead.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 6 servings
• Calories: Approximately 280 kcal per serving
• Total Fat: 20 g
• Saturated Fat: 7 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Cholesterol: 35 mg
• Sodium: 800 mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 10 g
• Dietary Fiber: 1 g
• Sugars: 2 g
• Protein: 11 g

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Marination Time: 1-2 hours (or overnight)
• Total Time: 1-2 hours 15 minutes

How to Serve

• Serve chilled or at room temperature.
• Arrange on a serving platter with toothpicks for easy snacking.
• Pair with crusty bread or crackers.
• Offer ranch or a balsamic glaze for dipping.

Additional Tips

1. Cheese Choice: While Havarti is recommended, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Gouda or mozzarella for different flavors.
2. Vinaigrette Variety: Use flavored vinaigrettes, such as balsamic or herb-infused, to change up the taste.
3. Herb Addition: Consider adding other herbs like parsley or oregano for an extra burst of freshness.
4. Presentation: For a beautiful presentation, layer the ingredients in a glass jar, showcasing the colorful layers.
5. Serving Temperature: This appetizer tastes best after marinating, but you can serve it immediately if short on time.

Recipe Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Omit the salami and replace it with marinated artichokes or roasted red peppers for a vegetarian twist.
• Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or a dash of red pepper flakes to the marinade for a spicy version.
• Add Nuts: Incorporate toasted pine nuts or walnuts for added crunch and flavor.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a variety of crackers or breadsticks for a well-rounded appetizer spread.
• Serve alongside a charcuterie board featuring a variety of meats, cheeses, and fruits.
• Include fresh fruits like grapes or apple slices for a sweet contrast to the savory flavors.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
• Freezing: It’s not recommended to freeze this appetizer as the texture of the cheese and vegetables may change.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use a different type of cheese?
   • Yes, you can substitute Havarti with Gouda, mozzarella, or cheddar.
2. How long can I marinate the cheese?
   • For best flavor, marinate for at least 1-2 hours, but overnight is ideal.
3. What if I can’t find cornichons?
   • You can substitute cornichons with small dill pickles or sweet gherkins.
4. Can I make this appetizer ahead of time?
   • Yes, it can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the fridge.
5. Is this dish gluten-free?
   • Yes, as long as the vinaigrette and any crackers served with it are gluten-free.
6. What’s the best way to serve this appetizer?
   • Serve it chilled on a platter with toothpicks for easy snacking.
7. Can I add more vegetables?
   • Absolutely! Consider adding roasted bell peppers, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes.
8. What’s a good substitute for Castelvetrano olives?
   • You can use any mild green olives or black olives in place of Castelvetrano.
9. How should I store leftovers?
   • Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
10. Can I use homemade vinaigrette?
    • Yes, a homemade garlic vinaigrette will work perfectly.

Conclusion

This Easy Marinated Cheese Appetizer with Salami and Pickles is a versatile and delightful dish that brings a burst of flavors to any gathering. Its simplicity and adaptability make it a must-try for any occasion, from casual get-togethers to elegant dinner parties. With its colorful presentation and vibrant taste, it’s bound to impress your guests and leave them asking for the recipe. Enjoy this delightful appetizer, and watch it disappear in no time!

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