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Merry

Easy Marinated Cheese & Salami Appetizer – Perfect for Parties!

This Zesty Marinated Cheese Medley with Salami and Pickles is a bold, flavorful appetizer that combines rich cheeses, savory salami, and tangy pickles, all infused with a delicious marinade. It’s the perfect addition to a charcuterie board, an elegant starter for a dinner party, or a quick and easy snack that impresses with minimal effort. Serve it with crackers, fresh bread, or alongside a variety of meats and dips for a gourmet experience.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Appetizer
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • Cheese Selection: 8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese cut into cubes; 8 ounces pepper jack cheese, cut into cubes
  • Marinade: ¼ cup olive oil; ¼ cup white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar; 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning; ½ teaspoon garlic powder; salt and pepper to taste
  • Add-Ins: ½ cup sliced salami cut into bite-sized pieces; ½ cup small pickles, such as cornichons or dill pickles, sliced
  • Garnish: Fresh herbs like parsley or basil

Method
 

  1. Prepare the Marinade: In a mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, vinegar, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
  2. Marinate the Cheese: Add the cheddar and pepper jack cheese cubes to the marinade. Toss gently to ensure each piece is thoroughly coated. Cover the bowl and let the mixture marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
  3. Assemble the Appetizer: On a serving platter, arrange the marinated cheese cubes. Distribute the salami pieces and sliced pickles around the cheese to create an appealing presentation.
  4. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle fresh herbs over the assembled appetizer for a burst of color and added flavor. Serve immediately, either on its own or accompanied by an assortment of crackers or crusty bread.

Notes

  • For Extra Flavor: Let the cheese marinate overnight for a deeper, more intense taste.
  • Cheese Variations: Swap out the cheddar and pepper jack for gouda, smoked cheddar, or aged provolone.
  • Make It Spicy: Add crushed red pepper flakes or use spicy salami for a kick.
  • Storage Tips: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.

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