Name: Marinated Cheese Appetizer
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Ingredients: 1 lb firm cheese (cheddar, gouda, mozzarella, or a mix, cut into bite-size cubes); 3.5 to 5 oz salami slices (cut into strips or small pieces); 1 cup green olives (pitted and halved); ½ red bell pepper (diced (optional)); ½ small red onion (thinly sliced (optional)); 2 to 3 tablespoons fresh parsley or basil (chopped); ½ cup extra-virgin olive oil; 2 to 3 tablespoons red wine vinegar (or white wine vinegar); 1 to 2 cloves garlic (minced); 1 teaspoon dried oregano; ½ teaspoon dried basil or Italian seasoning; ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional); Salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)

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When hosting a gathering or simply craving a delightful snack, this marinated cheese appetizer with salami and green olives is a crowd-pleaser that never disappoints. The combination of firm cheese cubes soaked in a zesty herb-infused marinade alongside savory salami and briny olives creates a vibrant and flavorful bite with every forkful.

This easy-to-make appetizer not only brightens up any grazing board but also elevates casual snacking with its balanced blend of textures and bold Mediterranean-inspired flavors. Perfect for picnics, parties, or an indulgent snack, it’s versatile and always a hit.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

It offers a flavorful, no-cook appetizer that’s quick to prepare and perfect for entertaining.
The combination of firm cheeses, salami, and olives delivers a harmonious mix of textures and tastes.
The herb-garlic marinade infuses delicious depth, making it a perfect make-ahead option to enhance flavor.

Ingredients

Firm cheese (450 g / ≈ 1 lb): Choose cheddar, gouda, mozzarella, or a blend, cut into bite-size cubes for perfect marinating absorption.
Salami slices (100–150 g): Cut into strips or small pieces; its savory richness complements the cheese beautifully.
Green olives (1 cup): Pitted and halved to add a bright, tangy bite that balances richness.
Red bell pepper (½, optional): Diced to introduce a touch of sweetness and vibrant color contrast.
Red onion (½ small, optional): Thinly sliced for a mild sharpness and added texture complexity.
Fresh parsley or basil (2–3 tablespoons): Chopped herbs add fresh aromatic notes and vibrant green color.
Extra-virgin olive oil (½ cup): A rich, fruity base for the marinade that coats ingredients evenly.
Red wine vinegar (2–3 tablespoons): Adds acidity and brightness, balancing the richness and enhancing flavors.
Garlic cloves (1–2, minced): Provide pungent, savory depth that elevates the marinade.
Dried oregano (1 teaspoon): Offers earthy and slightly bitter herbal notes for authentic Mediterranean taste.
Dried basil or Italian seasoning (½ teaspoon): Adds complex herbal layers complementing the fresh herbs.
Crushed red pepper flakes (¼ teaspoon, optional): Introduces subtle heat to awaken the palate.
Salt and freshly ground black pepper: To taste, essential for seasoning and enhancing all flavors.

Instructions

Prepare the Cheese and Add-Ins: Start by cutting the firm cheese into bite-size cubes, ensuring they’re uniform for even marinating. Place the cubes in a large bowl or airtight container. Add cut salami pieces, pitted and halved green olives, diced red bell pepper, and thinly sliced red onion for a colorful and flavorful mix.
Whisk Together the Marinade: In a separate small bowl, combine extra-virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil or Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper flakes if using, salt, and freshly ground pepper. Whisk thoroughly until the marinade is well blended to ensure the herbs and spices disperse evenly.
Combine and Toss Everything: Pour the prepared marinade over the bowl containing the cheese cubes, salami, and other add-ins. Gently toss with a spoon or spatula, making sure every piece is evenly coated in the flavorful herb-garlic oil. This not only builds layers of flavor but also helps tenderize the cheese slightly.
Marinate to Meld Flavors: Cover the bowl or container with a lid or plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes up to 2 hours or longer. This resting time allows the cheese to soak up the zesty flavors and the ingredients to harmonize for a balanced taste experience.
Bring to Room Temperature and Serve: About 10–15 minutes before serving, remove the marinated appetizer from the fridge to take the chill off. Arrange it on a platter, accompanied by toothpicks or small forks, making it easy for guests to enjoy. It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, crackers, or as part of an elegant charcuterie board.

You Must Know

The cheese will absorb more flavor the longer it marinates, so overnight refrigeration intensifies taste.
Adjust the amount of crushed red pepper flakes to control spiciness suited to your preference.
Substitute or add different olives (black or Kalamata) for varied flavor and visual appeal.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Allow to come to room temperature before serving again to restore full flavor and texture.

Serving Suggestions

This marinated cheese appetizer is perfect alongside crisp white wines, sparkling water with citrus slices, or your favorite aperitif. It also complements a range of charcuterie board items like nuts, fresh fruits, and assorted crackers for a complete flavor experience.

Professional Tips

Use a combination of firm cheeses to add complexity in texture and flavor profiles.
Fresh herbs can be added just before serving for a bright, fresh flavor lift.
If making ahead, avoid adding delicate add-ins like bell pepper until just before serving to maintain crunch.

FAQs

Can I use different cheeses for this appetizer?: Absolutely. Firm cheeses like cheddar, gouda, or Monterey Jack work best for marinating, offering varied taste and texture.
How long can I marinate the cheese mixture?: Marinate for at least 30 minutes, but longer (up to 24 hours) intensifies the flavors significantly.
Is it possible to make this appetizer vegan or vegetarian?: You can omit the salami and use plant-based cheese substitutes to make it vegetarian or vegan-friendly, though traditional flavor profiles will differ.
Can I use black olives instead of green olives?: Yes, black olives or Kalamata olives can be substituted or combined with green olives for a richer color and flavor variety.
What is the best way to serve this appetizer?: Serve at room temperature on a platter with toothpicks, alongside crusty bread, crackers, or as part of a charcuterie board.
Should I adjust the seasoning if preparing in advance?: Season lightly at first and adjust salt or pepper after marinating, as flavors concentrate over time.
Can I add other vegetables to the marinade?: Yes, vegetables like cherry tomatoes or cucumber can add freshness but are best added just before serving to maintain texture.