This Marinated Cheese with Salami & Pickles recipe is the answer. Perfect for parties, game days, or a casual get-together, this dish balances creamy, tangy, and savory flavors in every bite.
Ingredients
For the marinated cheese:
- 8 oz (225 g) of sharp cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tbsp white wine vinegar
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp dried basil
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For assembly:
- 20 slices of salami
- 10 small dill pickles (cornichons work great), sliced in half
- Toothpicks or skewers
- Crackers or bread for serving
- Instructions
- Prepare the marinade:
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, white wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. - Marinate the cheese:
Place the cheese cubes in a shallow dish or resealable bag. Pour the marinade over the cheese, ensuring each piece is coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or up to overnight, to allow the flavors to meld. - Assemble the appetizers:
After marinating, remove the cheese cubes and let them drain slightly. Take a toothpick or skewer and thread one piece of cheese, a folded slice of salami, and a pickle half. Repeat until all ingredients are used. - Serve:
Arrange the assembled skewers on a platter and serve with crackers or slices of crusty bread. For extra flavor, drizzle a bit of the leftover marinade over the platter just before serving. - Tips:
- Switch up the cheese with your favorite semi-firm varieties like pepper jack or gouda.
- Add olives or cherry tomatoes for more variety.
- These can be prepped a few hours in advance and kept refrigerated until serving.
Enjoy the perfect blend of savory and tangy flavors in this easy-to-make, crowd-pleasing appetizer!
- Prepare the marinade: