Description
A simple and flavorful marinated cheese appetizer featuring cubes of cheese, strips of salami, and green olives soaked in a fragrant olive oil marinade with garlic, herbs, and a hint of spice. Perfect for entertaining or as a savory snack.
Ingredients
Scale
Cheese and Meats
- 8 ounces cheese (such as mozzarella or cheddar), cut into cubes
- 4 ounces sliced salami, cut into strips
Olives
- 1 cup green olives, pitted
Marinade
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Combine main ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the cubed cheese, sliced salami, and green olives to prepare the base of the appetizer.
- Prepare the marinade: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper until well blended to create a flavorful marinade.
- Coat the ingredients: Pour the marinade over the cheese, salami, and olives, ensuring everything is evenly coated with the seasoned oil.
- Marinate: Transfer the mixture to a small jar or airtight container, seal tightly, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld together. For best results, marinate overnight.
- Serve: Serve the marinated cheese appetizer chilled or at room temperature. Enjoy it with toothpicks or on crackers as a delightful savory snack.
Notes
- Use a firm cheese like mozzarella or cheddar for best texture.
- The red pepper flakes are optional and can be omitted if you prefer a milder flavor.
- Marinating overnight intensifies the flavors.
- Serve with assorted crackers or fresh bread slices.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator and consume within 3 days for freshness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Marinating
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: marinated cheese appetizer, salami appetizer, green olives, easy appetizer, Mediterranean snack