Easy Marinated Cheese Appetizer with Salami & Pickles
The Easy Marinated Cheese Appetizer with Salami & Pickles is a crowd-pleasing dish perfect for parties, potlucks, or holiday gatherings. Cubes of cheese are marinated in a flavorful mix of olive oil, garlic, herbs, and spices, then paired with savory slices of salami and tangy pickles. The result is a balanced bite that’s rich, zesty, and satisfying. Served on toothpicks or skewers, this no-cook appetizer is as visually appealing as it is delicious.
Servings: 6–8
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Marinating Time: 2–4 hours (or overnight)
Total Time: 15 minutes (plus marinating)
Ingredients:
For the Marinated Cheese:
8 oz (225g) block of cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or Monterey Jack), cut into 1-inch cubes
1/3 cup olive oil
2 tbsp white or red wine vinegar
1 garlic clove, minced
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried basil
1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Assembly:
4 oz (115g) salami slices, halved or quartered
1/2 cup small pickles (cornichons or dill pickles), sliced if large
Fresh herbs for garnish (parsley or dill, optional)
Toothpicks or small skewers
Instructions:
Prepare the Marinade:
In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, vinegar, garlic, oregano, basil, crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.
Marinate the Cheese:
Add the cheese cubes to the bowl and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for 2–4 hours, or overnight for more intense flavor. Stir occasionally to ensure even marination.
Assemble the Appetizer:
On each toothpick or skewer, thread a cube of marinated cheese, a piece of salami, and a pickle slice. Repeat until all ingredients are used.
Serve:
Arrange skewers on a platter and garnish with fresh herbs if desired. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Recipe Notes
Cheese Options: Use semi-firm or firm cheeses that hold their shape, such as gouda, pepper jack, or havarti.
Pickle Substitutes: Replace pickles with olives, cherry tomatoes, or roasted red peppers for variety.
Make Ahead: The cheese can be marinated up to 24 hours in advance. Assemble the skewers just before serving for the best presentation.
Vegetarian Option: Omit the salami or substitute with roasted vegetables or marinated tofu cubes.
Nutritional Info: (Per Serving, Approx. 2 Skewers)
Calories: 150
Protein: 8g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Carbohydrates: 2g
Fiber: 0g
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 320mg
Cholesterol: 20mg