Easy Marinated Cheese Appetizer with Salami & Pickles

Introduction

When I first made this Easy Marinated Cheese Appetizer for a family gathering, I wasn’t sure what to expect. I had seen similar recipes online, but I wasn’t sure how well this combination of sharp cheddar, pepper jack, salami, and pickles would go over. To my surprise, everyone loved it! It was the perfect blend of savory, tangy, and a little spicy, and it disappeared faster than I could replenish it. The marinated cheese cubes were the star of the show, enhanced by the addition of the flavorful salami and pickles. This appetizer is so easy to make, yet it looks so impressive. It’s the ideal dish for parties, holidays, or any casual gathering. Here’s how you can recreate it at home!

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, like cornichons or dill pickles, sliced 🥒
• Fresh herbs, like parsley or basil, for garnish 🌿 (optional)

Instructions

1. Marinate the Cheese: In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the olive oil, vinegar, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Add the cubed sharp cheddar and pepper jack cheese to the bowl, and toss gently to coat them evenly with the marinade. Cover and let the cheese marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, but up to 2 hours for more flavor. The longer the cheese sits, the more it will absorb the marinated goodness.
2. Assemble the Appetizer: Once the cheese is marinated, arrange the cubes on a serving platter. Scatter the sliced salami and pickles around the cheese for an aesthetically pleasing display. The pickles add a nice tang, while the salami complements the cheese with its savory richness.
3. Garnish: To finish, sprinkle fresh herbs like parsley or basil over the top for a pop of color and added flavor. Fresh herbs will bring an extra layer of freshness to this savory appetizer.
4. Serve and Enjoy: This appetizer can be served as-is or with crackers on the side. It’s an excellent snack for parties, potlucks, or just a casual gathering with friends and family.

Enjoy this simple, yet flavorful treat, and watch as it becomes a favorite at your next event!

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Servings: 6
• Calories per serving: 230
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 680mg
• Fat: 19g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 13g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 3g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 14g
• Cholesterol: 30mg

(Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary depending on ingredient brands and exact portions.)

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Marinating Time: 30 minutes to 2 hours
• Total Time: 40 minutes to 2 hours 10 minutes

How to Serve

• On its own: Serve the marinated cheese, salami, and pickles as a stand-alone appetizer.
• With crackers: Add some crunchy crackers, like water crackers or wheat crackers, for extra texture and to help balance the richness of the cheese.
• As part of a charcuterie board: Place this appetizer next to other cured meats, cheeses, and fresh fruits for a well-rounded spread.
• With bread: Serve with sliced baguette or crusty bread to make it even heartier.
• With wine: Pair with a crisp white wine or a light red wine for an elegant snack.

Additional Tips

1. Don’t skip the marinating time: While you can marinate the cheese for just 30 minutes, letting it sit for a couple of hours really deepens the flavor, so be sure to allow time for this step.
2. Use a mix of cheeses: If you like variety, you can use a mix of cheeses, such as gouda, mozzarella, or Monterey Jack, in place of the sharp cheddar and pepper jack.
3. Adjust the seasoning: Taste the marinade before adding the cheese, and feel free to adjust the salt, pepper, or vinegar to your liking. If you like a bit more tang, try adding more vinegar or a dash of lemon juice.
4. Chill the cheese for better flavor: Let the cheese chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes after marinating. This helps the flavors meld together.
5. Try different pickles: If you don’t like cornichons or dill pickles, you can swap in bread-and-butter pickles or sweet gherkins for a different flavor profile.

Recipe Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add a few slices of spicy pepperoni or hot salami for a bit of heat. You could also sprinkle red pepper flakes over the top for an extra zing.
• Herb-infused: Add some fresh thyme or rosemary to the marinade for a more fragrant, earthy flavor.
• Vegetarian Version: Omit the salami and use roasted vegetables, such as cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, or olives, for a vegetarian-friendly alternative.
• Bacon Lovers: If you’re a bacon fan, add crispy bacon bits to the platter for a smoky flavor that complements the cheese and pickles.
• Smoked Cheese: Use smoked cheddar or smoked gouda for a richer, smoky flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions

• For parties: This appetizer is perfect for gatherings or casual parties, and it pairs well with drinks like beer, wine, or cocktails.
• With salads: Serve this as a side dish with a crisp green salad or a pasta salad for a more substantial meal.
• For game day: Serve this at your next football game or casual get-together with friends for a delicious and easy-to-make treat.
• For snacks: This makes a great snack for when you’re craving something savory and satisfying between meals.
• For lunchboxes: Pack a small serving of this appetizer in lunchboxes for a fun, savory midday snack.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The marinated cheese will still taste great for a few days, though the texture may soften slightly over time.
• Freezing: This appetizer is not ideal for freezing, as the marinated cheese may lose its texture when thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh or within a few days of preparation.

FAQ Section

1. How long can I marinate the cheese?
   You can marinate the cheese for anywhere between 30 minutes to 2 hours for the best flavor.
2. Can I use a different type of vinegar?
   Yes, you can use apple cider vinegar, balsamic vinegar, or even red wine vinegar, depending on your preference.
3. Can I use a different cheese?
   Yes! Feel free to use gouda, mozzarella, or any semi-soft cheese of your choice.
4. Do I need to add pickles?
   While the pickles add a tangy crunch, you can leave them out if you prefer a milder flavor. Try using olives instead.
5. What kind of salami should I use?
   Any kind of salami works well, but I recommend using a mild salami, so it doesn’t overpower the flavor of the cheese.
6. Can I make this appetizer ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prepare the cheese and marinade in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.
7. How do I serve this at a party?
   Simply arrange the marinated cheese, salami, and pickles on a large platter. Garnish with fresh herbs and serve with crackers or bread on the side.
8. Can I use different herbs?
   Yes! Basil, oregano, or thyme can be excellent alternatives to parsley.
9. Is this recipe gluten-free?
   Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, but be sure to serve it with gluten-free crackers if desired.
10. How long will leftovers last?
    Leftovers will last for up to 3 days when stored properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Conclusion

This Easy Marinated Cheese Appetizer with Salami & Pickles is the perfect addition to any gathering. It’s simple to make yet packed with bold flavors from the combination of marinated cheese, savory salami, and tangy pickles. Whether you’re hosting a party or just looking for a savory snack, this dish will surely impress your guests. With a few simple ingredients and minimal preparation, you can create an appetizer that’s both elegant and delicious. Enjoy!

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