This easy marinated cheese appetizer combines creamy cheese, savory salami, and tangy pickles into a flavorful, no-cook dish perfect for entertaining. Here’s a quick recipe:
Ingredients
- Cheese cubes (Cheddar, Monterey Jack, Gouda, or a mix) – 2 cups
- Salami slices – 10-12 slices, quartered
- Mini pickles (cornichons or gherkins) – 1 cup, sliced
- Olive oil – 1/3 cup
- White wine vinegar – 2 tbsp
- Honey – 1 tsp
- Garlic – 2 cloves, minced
- Fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme, or parsley) – 2 tbsp, chopped
- Crushed red pepper flakes – 1/2 tsp (optional, for a spicy kick)
- Salt & pepper – to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade:
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, white wine vinegar, honey, garlic, herbs, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.
- Assemble the Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl or shallow dish, combine cheese cubes, salami, and sliced pickles.
- Marinate:
- Pour the marinade over the cheese mixture, tossing gently to coat all pieces.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 24 hours for deeper flavor).
- Serve:
- Transfer to a serving platter or bowl. Garnish with extra herbs if desired.
- Pair with toothpicks or crackers for easy snacking.
Tips & Variations
- Use marinated olives for an extra Mediterranean touch.
- Swap salami for prosciutto, turkey slices, or a plant-based alternative.
- Add a handful of cherry tomatoes or roasted red peppers for color and flavor.
This appetizer is ideal for parties, game nights, or charcuterie boards. It’s as easy as mix, marinate, and serve!
