This Easy Marinated Cheese Appetizer with Salami & Pickles is a delightful, crowd-pleasing starter perfect for any gathering. Featuring tangy pickles, flavorful salami, and rich cheese, this dish combines texture and flavor in every bite. Marinated with a simple yet flavorful dressing, this appetizer is both easy to prepare and guaranteed to impress.
Ingredients
For the marinade:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the appetizer:
- 8 ounces cheddar cheese, cubed
- 8 ounces Monterey Jack cheese, cubed
- 6 ounces salami, sliced into quarters
- 1 cup small dill pickles (cornichons work best)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
Instructions
- Prepare the marinade:
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, white wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper until well combined. - Marinate the cheese:
Place the cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese cubes in a large mixing bowl. Pour the marinade over the cheese and toss gently to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, allowing the flavors to meld. - Assemble the appetizer:
After marinating, remove the cheese from the refrigerator. Add the sliced salami, dill pickles, and chopped parsley to the bowl with the cheese. Toss gently to combine all the ingredients. - Serve:
Transfer the marinated mixture to a serving platter or bowl. Add toothpicks for easy serving, or arrange the ingredients in an eye-catching pattern on skewers.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serving:Â This appetizer pairs well with crusty bread or crackers. Serve chilled or at room temperature for optimal flavor.
- Storage:Â Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir before serving to redistribute the marinade.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! You can substitute the cheddar and Monterey Jack with Gouda, mozzarella, or even a creamy Havarti for variety.
2. What other meats can I use instead of salami?
Pepperoni, prosciutto, or even smoked turkey can work beautifully in this recipe.
3. Can I prepare this appetizer ahead of time?
Yes, you can marinate the cheese up to 24 hours in advance. Add the salami and pickles just before serving for the freshest taste.
4. Can I make this appetizer vegetarian?
Certainly! Omit the salami and add more pickles, olives, or marinated artichoke hearts for a vegetarian-friendly option.
Enjoy this Easy Marinated Cheese Appetizer with Salami & Pickles at your next party or gathering for a dish that’s sure to disappear quickly!
PrintEasy Marinated Cheese Appetizer with Salami & Pickles
This Easy Marinated Cheese Appetizer is the perfect addition to any party platter. Cubes of cheese are marinated in a zesty olive oil and herb mixture, paired with tangy pickles, and served alongside slices of savory salami. It’s quick to prepare, packed with flavor, and a surefire crowd-pleaser.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Marinating
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
For the Marinated Cheese:
- 8 oz (225 g) block of cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese, cubed
- 1/3 cup (80 ml) olive oil
- 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Assembly:
- 12 slices of salami
- 1/2 cup small dill pickles (cornichons or sliced pickles work too)
- Toothpicks or skewers for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Cheese:
Cut the block of cheese into bite-sized cubes and place them in a medium-sized bowl. - Make the Marinade:
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), and a pinch of salt and pepper. - Marinate the Cheese:
Pour the marinade over the cheese cubes. Gently toss to coat. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for maximum flavor. - Assemble the Appetizers:
Take a toothpick or skewer and thread a cube of marinated cheese, a slice of salami (folded if needed), and a pickle. Repeat until all ingredients are used. - Serve:
Arrange the assembled skewers on a serving platter. Serve immediately or keep chilled until ready to serve.
Notes
- You can use any firm cheese, such as Gouda, Havarti, or Colby Jack.
- Add variety by including cherry tomatoes or olives on the skewers.
- For a vegetarian option, skip the salami and double up on cheese or pickles.