Description

This Easy Marinated Cheese Appetizer combines sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses with savory salami and tangy baby dill pickles, all coated in a flavorful marinade of olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, and Italian seasonings. Perfect for parties, holidays, or game day, this no-cook appetizer can be prepared ahead and served chilled or at room temperature for maximum flavor.

Ingredients

Scale

Cheese and Meats

8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, cut into cubes
8 ounces Monterey Jack or mozzarella cheese, cut into cubes
6 ounces hard salami, cut into bite-sized pieces or folded

Pickles

½ cup baby dill pickles or cornichons, sliced or left whole

Marinade

¼ cup olive oil
2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and black pepper to taste

Garnish

2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

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Instructions

Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl or shallow dish, combine the cubed cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack cheese, bite-sized salami pieces, and baby dill pickles.
Prepare Marinade: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, dried Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper until well blended.
Mix with Marinade: Pour the prepared marinade over the cheese and salami mixture. Gently toss everything together to ensure all pieces are evenly coated without breaking the cheese cubes.
Marinate: Cover the bowl or dish and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, up to 24 hours. Stir occasionally during this period to help distribute the marinade evenly.
Serve: Before serving, remove the marinated cheese from the refrigerator and allow it to sit at room temperature for 15 to 20 minutes to enhance the flavors. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve with toothpicks or skewers for easy eating.

Notes

Great for holidays, parties, or game day gatherings.
Swap in pepper jack, gouda, or provolone cheese for different flavor profiles.
Serve alongside crackers, sliced baguette, or as part of a larger charcuterie board.
Marinating longer intensifies the flavor, but ensure picnic freshness by not exceeding 24 hours.