Description
This Easy Marinated Cheese Appetizer with Salami & Pickles combines the sharpness of cheddar and pepper jack cheese with the savory flavors of salami and the tanginess of pickles. Marinated in a simple olive oil and vinegar dressing, it’s a perfect bite-sized treat for any party or gathering. Ready in just 40 minutes, it’s an effortless appetizer that will impress your guests.
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 apple cider vinegar
1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon 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
Optional: Fresh herbs like parsley or basil, for garnish
Instructions
- Marinate the Cheese: In a medium bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Add the cheddar and pepper jack cheese cubes to the mixture, tossing gently to coat. Cover and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
- Assemble the Appetizer: Arrange the marinated cheese cubes on a serving platter. Add the sliced salami and pickles around the cheese.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle fresh herbs (optional) over the platter for extra flavor and color. Serve the appetizer with crackers or as-is for a savory treat.
Notes
For a more intense flavor, let the cheese marinate for up to 2 hours.
Feel free to swap the pickles for your favorite variety (e.g., bread-and-butter pickles or spicy pickles) for a personalized touch.
This recipe can be made ahead of time; store the marinated cheese in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Snack
- Method: No-Cook, Marinated
- Cuisine: American, Italian-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6 servings
- Calories: 220 kcal
