This easy marinated cheese appetizer is the ultimate crowd-pleaser. Perfect for gatherings, potlucks, or as a simple snack, this dish combines the sharp tang of cheddar and the spicy kick of pepper jack with the savory flavors of salami and pickles. The cheeses soak up a delicious marinade made from olive oil, vinegar, and Italian seasonings, adding an extra layer of flavor to every bite. Garnished with fresh herbs, this appetizer is as visually appealing as it is delicious.
Why We Love This Recipe
This marinated cheese appetizer is more than just a snack; it’s an experience. With every bite, you get a burst of flavors from the cheeses, the acidity of the vinegar, the aromatic Italian seasoning, and the salty-savory profile of salami and pickles. It’s a recipe that’s both quick to prepare and has a bold, satisfying flavor profile, which makes it perfect for parties and get-togethers. This dish is also highly customizable—you can switch up the cheeses or add other cured meats and veggies to make it your own. Plus, it’s a no-cook recipe, which makes it ideal for warm weather or last-minute preparations.
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)
How to Make This Recipe
- Prep the Ingredients: Start by cutting the cheeses into cubes. Aim for small, bite-sized cubes that can easily be picked up with a fork or toothpick.
- Prepare the Marinade: In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, vinegar, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Adjust the seasoning to taste, as some may prefer a bit more salt or an extra dash of Italian herbs.
- Combine and Marinate: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cheddar cheese, pepper jack cheese, sliced salami, and pickles. Pour the marinade over the top and gently toss everything until all ingredients are coated in the marinade.
- Chill: Cover the bowl and let the mixture marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours. The longer it sits, the more intense the flavors will be.
- Garnish and Serve: Before serving, garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or basil, if desired. Transfer the marinated cheese, salami, and pickles to a serving platter with toothpicks for easy snacking.
Success Tips
- Cut Evenly: Try to cut the cheese and salami into even-sized pieces for a uniform look and easy snacking.
- Marinate Overnight for Extra Flavor: While 2 hours is enough, marinating overnight will allow the flavors to meld together even more, resulting in a richer, more flavorful appetizer.
- Customize It: Feel free to add other ingredients like olives, roasted red peppers, or artichoke hearts. This dish is versatile and can be adjusted to suit different tastes.
- Use High-Quality Cheese: Since cheese is the main ingredient, the quality can make a big difference. Opt for sharp cheddar and good-quality pepper jack for the best results.
- Serve with Toothpicks: For easy serving, provide toothpicks or small skewers for guests to pick up individual bites.
Storage
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Note that the cheese will continue to absorb the marinade, so the flavor may intensify over time. Give the mixture a quick stir before serving to redistribute the marinade.
Notes
- Cheese Varieties: This recipe works with various cheeses, so feel free to experiment with other types like gouda, fontina, or mozzarella.
- Vinegar Options: Apple cider vinegar and white wine vinegar both add a nice acidity. For a slightly different flavor, you could also use red wine vinegar.
- Optional Add-ins: To make this appetizer even more interesting, consider adding roasted red peppers, sun-dried tomatoes, or olives. This makes the dish even more vibrant and flavorful.
Nutrition
This appetizer is low-carb, making it a good option for keto diets or anyone avoiding refined carbohydrates. The cheeses and salami provide protein and fats, while the pickles and herbs add flavor with minimal calories. Here’s a quick nutritional breakdown (approximate values per serving):
- Calories: 210 kcal
- Protein: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fat: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sodium: 450 mg
FAQs
Q: Can I make this appetizer ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare this dish up to 24 hours in advance. In fact, allowing it to marinate overnight intensifies the flavors. Just give it a good stir before serving.
Q: What other meats could I add to this dish? A: Other cured meats, like prosciutto, pepperoni, or even chorizo, make great additions. You could also use smoked ham or turkey for a slightly different flavor.
Q: Are there other cheeses that work well in this recipe? A: Absolutely! Try using gouda, fontina, or smoked mozzarella. Avoid softer cheeses like brie or goat cheese, as they won’t hold up as well in the marinade.
Q: How do I make this recipe spicier? A: If you love a bit of heat, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the marinade. You could also use hot pickles or spicy salami for an extra kick.
Q: Can I use fresh garlic instead of garlic powder? A: Yes, minced fresh garlic will work well and provide a stronger garlic flavor. Just be cautious, as raw garlic can be quite potent.
Conclusion
This Easy Marinated Cheese Appetizer with Salami & Pickles is a winning recipe for any occasion. Its rich flavors, combined with the ease of preparation, make it a go-to choice for anyone looking to impress guests or enjoy a quick and tasty snack. Serve it at your next gathering and watch as it disappears—this dish is sure to be a favorite!