Marinated Cheese is an elegant and flavorful appetizer that features cubes or slices of creamy cheeses such as cheddar, mozzarella, or goat cheese, infused with a zesty marinade of olive oil, fresh herbs, garlic, and spices. The cheese absorbs the bold flavors of the marinade, creating a savory, aromatic dish that pairs perfectly with crusty bread, crackers, or fresh vegetables.
I first made marinated cheese for a wine night, and it quickly became a favorite. The combination of the rich, creamy cheese with the tangy, herbaceous marinade was absolutely irresistible. What I love most about this recipe is how versatile it is—you can mix and match your favorite cheeses, customize the marinade with your choice of herbs like rosemary or thyme, or add ingredients like sun-dried tomatoes or olives for extra flair. Whether served as a centerpiece for a charcuterie board or as a standalone appetizer, Marinated Cheese is a simple yet sophisticated dish that’s sure to impress!
Perfect for:
- Dinner parties
- Potlucks
- Appetizer platters
- Cheese lovers
- Holiday gatherings
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Here are 10 reasons why this Marinated Cheese will be the star of your next gathering:
- Flavorful Marinade: The combination of olive oil, vinegar, and herbs brings out the best in the cheese.
- Simple Ingredients: Made with basic ingredients that are easy to find, yet deliver a gourmet result.
- Perfectly Balanced Flavors: The tanginess of the marinade enhances the richness of the cheese for a balanced bite.
- Versatile: You can experiment with different types of cheese or add extra spices for variety.
- Great Make-Ahead Option: Marinate the cheese the night before to save time and let the flavors develop.
- Fresh and Herby: The fresh herbs and garlic infuse the cheese with vibrant flavors.
- Customizable to Taste: Adjust the marinade with your favorite herbs or add a bit of heat with chili flakes.
- Impressive Presentation: This marinated cheese looks stunning when served on a platter with crackers and fresh bread.
- Perfect Party Appetizer: It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to disappear fast at your next event.
- No Cooking Required: This is a no-cook recipe that’s as simple as it is delicious.
Preparation and Cooking Time
- Total Time: 1 hour (including marination)
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Marination Time: 50 minutes
- Servings: 8 servings
- Calories per serving: Approximately 200-250 calories
- Key Nutrients: Protein: 8g, Carbs: 2g, Fat: 18g
Ingredients
For the Marinade:
- ½ cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Cheese:
- 8 oz block of your favorite cheese (e.g., feta, goat cheese, or mozzarella)
- Fresh herbs (e.g., thyme, rosemary, parsley) for garnish
Ingredient Highlights
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Adds richness and a smooth base for the marinade.
- Red Wine Vinegar: Provides acidity to balance the creaminess of the cheese.
- Garlic: Infuses the marinade with aromatic depth.
- Fresh Herbs: Give the dish a vibrant, herbal flavor and a fresh touch.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Marinade:
- Combine Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, honey, garlic, oregano, thyme, and red pepper flakes.
- Season: Add salt and pepper to taste and stir until well combined.
Prepare the Cheese:
- Cut the Cheese: Slice the cheese into bite-sized cubes or wedges, depending on your preference.
- Place in Container: Place the cheese in a small, shallow dish or airtight container.
- Pour Marinade: Pour the prepared marinade over the cheese, ensuring that it’s fully coated.
- Marinate: Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or up to overnight) to allow the flavors to infuse.
Serve:
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the cheese from the marinade and transfer to a serving platter. Garnish with fresh herbs and serve with crackers, fresh bread, or vegetables.
How to Serve
Here are 9 serving suggestions for Marinated Cheese:
- With Fresh Bread: Serve on a platter alongside crusty baguette slices or soft pita bread.
- As an Appetizer: Perfect for a cocktail party or as part of a cheese board.
- With Crackers: Pair with your favorite crackers for a crunchy complement to the creamy cheese.
- On a Charcuterie Board: Add to a charcuterie spread with meats, olives, and pickles.
- For a Salad: Toss marinated cheese cubes into a green salad for a tangy and savory twist.
- With Vegetables: Serve with fresh veggies like cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers.
- As a Snack: Enjoy as a simple, satisfying snack on its own.
- As a Gift: Package the marinated cheese in a jar as a thoughtful homemade gift.
- On Toasted Crostini: Spread a layer of the marinated cheese onto toasted crostini for a delicious bite-sized appetizer.
Additional Tips
- Let it Marinate: The longer the cheese marinates, the more intense the flavor, so consider making it a day ahead.
- Mix and Match Cheeses: Try different cheeses, such as brie, goat cheese, or even sharp cheddar, for a variety of textures and flavors.
- Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs like rosemary, basil, and parsley work wonderfully to enhance the flavor.
- Drain Excess Oil: Before serving, drain some of the excess oil if you prefer a lighter version.
- Add a Zesty Twist: Include a few slices of lemon zest in the marinade for an extra layer of citrusy brightness.
Recipe Variations
- Spicy Marinated Cheese: Add more chili flakes or a chopped fresh chili to the marinade for a spicy kick.
- Balsamic Vinegar Marinade: Swap red wine vinegar for balsamic vinegar for a sweeter flavor profile.
- Herbed Goat Cheese: Use goat cheese and marinate with rosemary, thyme, and garlic for a rich, tangy treat.
- Lemon and Basil Marinated Cheese: Add lemon zest and fresh basil to the marinade for a fresh and zesty flavor.
- Citrus Infusion: Use orange or lime juice in place of lemon for a citrusy twist.
- Olive and Herb Marinade: Incorporate black or green olives in the marinade for a Mediterranean flair.
Special Equipment
- Glass Jar or Airtight Container – To store the cheese and marinade mixture.
- Chef’s Knife – For cutting the cheese into cubes or slices.
- Mandoline Slicer – To slice vegetables or herbs for the marinade.
- Mixing Bowls – For tossing the cheese in the marinade.
- Zester or Microplane – To add zest from citrus fruits to the marinade.
- Measuring Spoons – For accurate measurement of spices and liquids.
- Whisk – To blend the marinade ingredients smoothly.
- Strainer or Fine Mesh Sieve – To remove any solid bits from the marinade liquid.
- Tongs – For handling cheese or turning it in the marinade.
- Infuser or Herb Bundle – For adding herbs like rosemary or thyme into the marinade without them breaking apart.
FAQ Section
- Can I use different cheeses?
Yes! Try feta, goat cheese, mozzarella, or even sharp cheddar for a variety of textures and flavors. - How long can I store the marinated cheese?
The marinated cheese can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days in an airtight container. - Can I make this recipe in advance?
Absolutely! Marinate the cheese the day before to let the flavors develop. - Is this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, this is a vegetarian-friendly recipe. - Can I freeze the marinated cheese?
It’s not recommended to freeze the cheese as the texture may change when thawed. - Can I add other vegetables to the marinade?
Yes, feel free to add olives, sun-dried tomatoes, or roasted peppers for extra flavor. - What can I serve with the marinated cheese?
Serve with crackers, fresh bread, veggies, or as part of a charcuterie board. - Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?
Yes, fresh herbs can be used, but use about three times the amount of dried herbs called for in the recipe. - Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, swap the cheese for plant-based options like vegan feta or cashew cheese. - How do I prevent the cheese from becoming too salty?
Use a cheese with a lower salt content, and make sure to drain the marinade before serving if needed.
Conclusion
Marinated Cheese is a simple yet elegant appetizer that combines an assortment of cheeses with a flavorful marinade of olive oil, herbs, and spices. This dish elevates your favorite cheeses, such as cheddar, cream cheese, or goat cheese, by infusing them with the aromatic flavors of garlic, fresh herbs, and a touch of tangy vinegar or lemon juice. Perfect for entertaining, Marinated Cheese pairs beautifully with crackers, crusty bread, or fresh vegetables.
This recipe is versatile and can be tailored to your preferences. Add ingredients like sun-dried tomatoes, olives, or crushed red pepper flakes for an extra burst of flavor. Letting the cheese marinate for several hours or overnight allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making it an ideal make-ahead dish. Whether served as part of a charcuterie board or on its own, Marinated Cheese is always a crowd-pleaser.
I can’t wait to see how your Marinated Cheese turns out! Be sure to share your photos on Instagram and tag me—I’d love to see your creative and delicious presentation. Don’t forget to leave a comment and let me know how you made this dish your own!