If you’re looking for an effortless yet elegant appetizer that will wow your guests, this Easy Marinated Cheese Appetizer with Salami & Pickles is the perfect choice. With a combination of creamy cheese, savory salami, tangy pickles, and a flavorful marinade, this dish is an irresistible blend of textures and tastes. Whether you’re hosting a party, celebrating a holiday, or preparing for a casual get-together, this appetizer is sure to impress. Plus, it’s quick to prepare and can be made ahead of time, making it a stress-free option for any occasion.
Ingredients:
- Cheese (block or cubed): 1 pound (choose a firm cheese like cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Colby Jack)
- Salami slices: 8-10 large slices (cut into quarters)
- Pickles (small or sliced): ½ cup (dill or bread-and-butter pickles work best)
- Extra virgin olive oil: ⅓ cup
- White wine vinegar: 2 tablespoons
- Fresh herbs: 1 tablespoon chopped parsley or thyme
- Garlic cloves: 2, minced
- Crushed red pepper flakes: ½ teaspoon (optional, for heat)
- Salt: ¼ teaspoon
- Black pepper: ¼ teaspoon
- Honey or sugar: 1 teaspoon (optional, for a touch of sweetness)
Preparation:
Step 1: Prepare the cheese.
- Cut the block of cheese into 1-inch cubes for easy serving. Ensure the cubes are uniform in size for consistent marinating.
Step 2: Assemble the salami and pickles.
- Quarter the salami slices and slice the pickles if needed. Pat them dry with a paper towel to prevent excess moisture in the marinade.
Step 3: Make the marinade.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together olive oil, white wine vinegar, minced garlic, chopped herbs, crushed red pepper flakes, salt, black pepper, and honey or sugar. Stir until well combined.
Step 4: Combine ingredients.
- In a large bowl or resealable container, layer the cheese cubes, salami quarters, and pickles. Pour the marinade over the top, ensuring everything is evenly coated.
Step 5: Marinate and serve.
- Cover the container and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, to let the flavors meld. Stir occasionally to ensure even marination. Before serving, bring to room temperature for the best flavor.
Variations:
- Cheese Variety: Swap cheddar for gouda, mozzarella, or pepper jack for a unique twist.
- Meat Options: Replace salami with prosciutto, pepperoni, or turkey slices.
- Pickles Alternative: Use pickled jalapeños, olives, or even pickled red onions for a tangy variation.
- Herbs: Experiment with rosemary, dill, or basil instead of parsley or thyme.
- Vegan Version: Substitute cheese with firm tofu and salami with marinated seitan slices.
Cooking Notes:
- Use a high-quality olive oil for the marinade to enhance the overall flavor.
- Avoid marinating for longer than 24 hours, as the cheese may lose its firmness.
- If you’re short on time, marinate for at least 30 minutes at room temperature before serving.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with crackers or slices of crusty baguette for a complete snack.
- Pair with fresh vegetables like cherry tomatoes, celery sticks, or cucumber slices for added crunch.
- Include as part of a larger charcuterie board alongside nuts, dried fruits, and spreads.
Tips:
- Cut Uniformly: Consistent cheese cube sizes ensure even marination and better presentation.
- Pat Dry: Drying the salami and pickles prevents the marinade from becoming too watery.
- Presentation: Serve on a platter with toothpicks for easy, mess-free eating.
- Double the Recipe: This appetizer is a crowd-pleaser, so consider making a larger batch for parties.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (assembly only)
Total Time: 15 minutes (plus marinating time)
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 210
- Protein: 9g
- Sodium: 540mg
FAQs:
1. Can I make this appetizer ahead of time?
Yes! This dish tastes even better when made ahead. Prepare it the night before your event and refrigerate, allowing the flavors to fully develop.
2. What kind of cheese works best?
Firm cheeses like cheddar, gouda, or Monterey Jack hold up well in the marinade and pair wonderfully with salami and pickles. Avoid soft cheeses as they may become too mushy.
3. Can I use store-bought marinade?
Absolutely! If you’re in a rush, a quality Italian dressing or vinaigrette can serve as a ready-made marinade.
4. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir gently before serving again.
Conclusion:
This Easy Marinated Cheese Appetizer with Salami & Pickles combines simplicity and sophistication, making it an excellent choice for any gathering. Its delightful mix of creamy, tangy, and savory flavors is sure to be a hit among your guests. With customizable options and quick preparation, this recipe is a go-to for both last-minute hosting and well-planned events. Serve it up, and watch it disappear!
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Easy Marinated Cheese Appetizer with Salami & Pickles
- Total Time: 15 min
Ingredients
Ingredients:
- Cheese (block or cubed): 1 pound (choose a firm cheese like cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Colby Jack)
- Salami slices: 8-10 large slices (cut into quarters)
- Pickles (small or sliced): ½ cup (dill or bread-and-butter pickles work best)
- Extra virgin olive oil: ⅓ cup
- White wine vinegar: 2 tablespoons
- Fresh herbs: 1 tablespoon chopped parsley or thyme
- Garlic cloves: 2, minced
- Crushed red pepper flakes: ½ teaspoon (optional, for heat)
- Salt: ¼ teaspoon
- Black pepper: ¼ teaspoon
- Honey or sugar: 1 teaspoon (optional, for a touch of sweetness)
Instructions
Preparation:
Step 1: Prepare the cheese.
- Cut the block of cheese into 1-inch cubes for easy serving. Ensure the cubes are uniform in size for consistent marinating.
Step 2: Assemble the salami and pickles.
- Quarter the salami slices and slice the pickles if needed. Pat them dry with a paper towel to prevent excess moisture in the marinade.
Step 3: Make the marinade.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together olive oil, white wine vinegar, minced garlic, chopped herbs, crushed red pepper flakes, salt, black pepper, and honey or sugar. Stir until well combined.
Step 4: Combine ingredients.
- In a large bowl or resealable container, layer the cheese cubes, salami quarters, and pickles. Pour the marinade over the top, ensuring everything is evenly coated.
Step 5: Marinate and serve.
- Cover the container and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, to let the flavors meld. Stir occasionally to ensure even marination. Before serving, bring to room temperature for the best flavor.
Notes
- Use a high-quality olive oil for the marinade to enhance the overall flavor.
- Avoid marinating for longer than 24 hours, as the cheese may lose its firmness.
- If you’re short on time, marinate for at least 30 minutes at room temperature before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 min
- Cook Time: 0 min
Nutrition
- Calories: 210
- Sodium: 540 mg
- Protein: 9 g