When it comes to appetizers that wow, marinated cheese stands out with its vibrant flavors and rustic charm, imagine creamy cheese infused with aromatic herbs, zesty citrus, and a hint of garlic, all soaking up the rich, tangy marinade.
Acorn SquashThis dish is a staple at my family gatherings, where it never fails to spark conversation and create a cozy atmosphere. I remember the first time I prepared it for a summer barbecue; the sun was setting, and the cheese, glistening in a bowl, was devoured alongside juicy BBQ chicken skewers and warm Easy no-knead bread.
This marinated cheese is not just easy to prepare; it’s a celebration of fresh ingredients. Using a mix of your favorite cheeses—think sharp cheddar, creamy goat, and herbed feta—combined with olive oil, fresh herbs, and spices, this appetizer becomes a masterpiece that tantalizes the taste buds.
Every bite bursts with flavor.
Perfect for any occasion, from casual get-togethers to festive holiday gatherings, I invite you to try it and share your own twists on this delicious dish!
Why I Love This Recipe?
- I love how simple it is to throw everything together. Just mix and let it marinate—no fuss, all flavor!
- I often experiment with different cheeses and herbs, which means every batch can be unique and exciting.
- This dish is always a hit at parties, making me the go-to host for easy, impressive appetizers.
Marinated Cheese Appetizer
Equipment
- Tight-sealing jar
- Shallow baking dish
- Sharp Knife
- Cutting Board
Ingredients
- ½ cup white wine vinegar
- ½ tsp ground black pepper
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ cup olive oil
- Âľ tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1 tsp bottle diced pimento, drained
- 1 package cream cheese, cold
- 1 block Cheddar cheese
- 3 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tbsp minced green onions
Instructions
- In a jar with a tight-fitting lid, combine olive oil, vinegar, pimentos, parsley, green onions, garlic, sugar, basil, salt, and pepper.
- Seal the jar and shake well until everything is thoroughly mixed.
- Cut the Cheddar block in half lengthwise, then slice it into ÂĽ-inch squares.
- Do the same with the cream cheese.
- Arrange the cheese slices alternately in a shallow dish, standing them upright.
- Depending on your dish size, you can place them in a single row or create two parallel rows.
- Pour the prepared marinade over the cheese, cover the dish, and refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight.
- When ready to serve, transfer the cheese slices to a serving platter, keeping the alternating pattern intact.
- Drizzle a bit of the reserved marinade on top before serving.
Notes
- Use full-fat cream cheese for better texture and flavor.
- Marinating overnight ensures the best flavor infusion.
| Nutrition | Value |
|---|---|
| Calories | 169 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 1 g |
| Protein | 5 g |
| Vitamin C | 5 mg |
| Iron | 1 mg |
| Sugar | 1 g |
| Calcium | 117 mg |