The Easy Marinated Cheese Plate is a stunning yet simple dish that takes the concept of a cheese board to the next level. Marinated cheeses are not only flavorful but add a delightful complexity to the traditional cheese plate. The cheeses soak in a blend of olive oil, fresh herbs, spices, and sometimes even citrus or garlic, creating a rich and savory experience that bursts with taste. This dish is an ideal choice for casual get-togethers, picnics, or special occasions, offering a balance of flavors and textures that appeal to cheese lovers and newcomers alike. Whether you’re preparing it for an appetizer or an accompaniment to your favorite wine, this plate is sure to impress.

I stumbled upon the concept of marinated cheese after visiting a small wine bar where they served a beautiful selection of cheeses that had been infused with various herbs and spices. The flavors were so vibrant and fresh, making each bite even more enjoyable. I knew immediately that I wanted to recreate that experience at home. After a few tries and tweaks, I found the perfect balance of ingredients that work well together without overwhelming the natural flavors of the cheese. This easy marinated cheese plate has since become a go-to dish for gatherings, and every time I serve it, guests rave about the unique twist on a classic cheese platter.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. You can customize the marinated cheese to suit your personal taste or dietary preferences. You can choose from a variety of cheeses, such as goat cheese, feta, mozzarella, or cheddar, and experiment with different combinations of herbs, spices, and oils. Additionally, the marinated cheese can be made ahead of time, making it a fantastic option for stress-free entertaining. Its simplicity and adaptability are what make it such a popular choice for any occasion. Plus, it pairs wonderfully with a wide array of accompaniments, from crackers and fresh bread to olives, fresh fruits, and cured meats.

Why This Easy Marinated Cheese Plate?
Selling Points:

• Effortless and Elegant: With just a few ingredients, you can create a stunning appetizer that’s perfect for any occasion.
• Customizable: Choose your favorite cheeses, herbs, and spices to create a marinated cheese plate that suits your taste preferences.
• Make Ahead: The marinated cheese can be prepared in advance, saving you time on the day of your gathering.
• Pairs Well with Many Dishes: Whether served with bread, crackers, or fruits, this cheese plate complements a variety of foods and beverages.
• Visually Impressive: The marinated cheeses look beautiful on a platter and make an impressive centerpiece for your table.

What You Need for Easy Marinated Cheese Plate

• 8 ounces of goat cheese
• 8 ounces of feta cheese
• 8 ounces of mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine)
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
• 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for a bit of heat)
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

How to Make Easy Marinated Cheese Plate

1. Prepare the cheeses: Begin by cutting the goat cheese and feta into cubes, and leave the mozzarella balls whole or cut them in half if desired.
2. Make the marinade: In a bowl, combine the olive oil, garlic slices, thyme, rosemary, red pepper flakes (if using), and lemon zest. Stir everything together to infuse the oil with the flavors.
3. Marinate the cheeses: Place the cheeses into a shallow dish or jar and pour the marinade over them, ensuring they are well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Prepare the serving platter: When ready to serve, remove the marinated cheeses from the fridge. Arrange them on a large plate or platter in a visually appealing way, drizzling some of the marinade over the top.
5. Garnish and serve: Sprinkle the marinated cheese with fresh parsley for a touch of color, and add any additional accompaniments like crackers, sliced baguette, or fresh fruits. Serve with your favorite wine or cocktails.

Tips for the Perfect Marinated Cheese Plate

• Let the cheese marinate: For the best flavor, marinate the cheeses for at least 2 hours, though overnight marinating will give them an even richer taste.
• Experiment with different cheeses: Don’t be afraid to try different varieties like brie, gouda, or cheddar for a new twist on the traditional cheese plate.
• Customize the herbs: If you prefer certain herbs over others, swap out the thyme and rosemary for basil, oregano, or tarragon to suit your tastes.
• Keep it simple: A marinated cheese plate doesn’t need a lot of additional ingredients. Stick to a few high-quality accompaniments, such as crackers or fresh fruit, to highlight the cheese.
• Serve with the right wine: A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light rosé pairs wonderfully with this marinated cheese plate.

Substitutions and Variations

• Different cheeses: If you prefer other cheeses, try substituting the goat cheese with ricotta, the feta with blue cheese, or the mozzarella with burrata for a creamy twist.
• Vegetarian options: Ensure that your cheese is made from vegetarian-friendly rennet, especially if serving guests with dietary restrictions.
• Spicy version: For an extra kick, add more crushed red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot honey to the marinade.
• Add nuts: For a little crunch, sprinkle some toasted almonds, walnuts, or pistachios over the marinated cheeses before serving.
• Vegan alternative: Try using plant-based cheeses like vegan feta or cashew-based mozzarella for a dairy-free version.

Make a Healthier Version

• Use olive oil sparingly: For a lighter version, you can reduce the amount of olive oil in the marinade and increase the amount of fresh herbs and spices.
• Swap for low-fat cheese: Opt for low-fat goat cheese or mozzarella if you’re watching your calorie intake.
• Incorporate more vegetables: Add more fresh vegetables like sliced cucumber, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers to the platter for extra fiber and vitamins.
• Skip the salt: Reduce the amount of added salt in the marinade and rely on the natural flavors of the cheeses and herbs to bring out the taste.

Closing for Easy Marinated Cheese Plate
The Easy Marinated Cheese Plate is the perfect dish for any occasion, whether you’re entertaining guests, preparing a picnic, or just craving a delicious appetizer. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the ability to customize it to your preferences. The marinated cheeses provide a luxurious flavor experience, while the variety of accompaniments makes it a fun and interactive dish to enjoy with friends and family. With just a few ingredients and minimal preparation, you can create a dish that’s not only easy to make but also visually stunning and full of flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions for Easy Marinated Cheese Plate

1. Can I use store-bought marinated cheese?
   Yes, many grocery stores offer pre-marinated cheeses, but making your own allows you to control the flavors and adjust them to your liking.
   
2. How long should I marinate the cheese?
   Ideally, you should marinate the cheese for at least 2 hours, but for the best results, marinate it overnight.
   
3. Can I serve the marinated cheese immediately?
   While you can serve it right away, allowing the cheese to marinate for a while will enhance the flavors.
   
4. How should I store the marinated cheese leftovers?
   Store any leftover marinated cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
   
5. Can I use other oils besides olive oil?
   Yes, you can use avocado oil or grapeseed oil if you prefer, though olive oil is the most traditional choice.
   
6. Can I add dried fruits to the plate?
   Dried fruits like figs or apricots are a wonderful addition to a cheese platter and pair beautifully with marinated cheese.
   
7. Can I prepare this dish in advance?
   Yes, you can prepare the marinated cheese up to a day in advance, making it an ideal make-ahead dish for gatherings.
   
8. Is this recipe gluten-free?
   Yes, the marinated cheese itself is gluten-free. Just ensure any accompaniments, such as crackers or bread, are gluten-free if needed.
   
9. Can I make this dish dairy-free?
   Yes, you can substitute with plant-based cheeses to create a dairy-free version of this marinated cheese plate.
   
10. What should I serve this cheese plate with?
    You can serve it with crackers, fresh bread, grapes, figs, or even vegetables like cucumber and carrot sticks.
    
11. What wine pairs best with this dish?
    A crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or a light Chardonnay, pairs perfectly with the rich, marinated cheeses.
    
12. Can I marinate the cheese for too long?
    While it’s great to marinate overnight, marinating for too long may overpower the flavor of the cheese, so try not to exceed 48 hours.
    

The Easy Marinated Cheese Plate is a simple yet elegant dish that can easily become a favorite for gatherings, dinner parties, or casual meals. It’s versatile, customizable, and requires minimal preparation, making it the perfect option for both novice and seasoned hosts. With the rich, savory flavors of marinated cheese, the freshness of herbs, and the perfect balance of spices, this dish is sure to wow your guests. Plus, its adaptability allows you to incorporate your favorite cheeses, herbs, and accompaniments. Whether you’re a cheese connoisseur or just starting to explore cheese boards, this marinated cheese plate is sure to elevate any meal or event.

Easy Marinated Cheese Plate

Recipe by Alexandra SaricolCourse: All Recipes

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

30

minutes

Cooking time

40

minutes

Calories

300

kcal

Ingredients

• 8 ounces of goat cheese

• 8 ounces of feta cheese

• 8 ounces of mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine)

• 1/4 cup olive oil

• 2 cloves garlic, thinly sliced

• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves

• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped

• 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for a bit of heat)

• 1 tablespoon lemon zest

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Directions

• Prepare the cheeses: Begin by cutting the goat cheese and feta into cubes, and leave the mozzarella balls whole or cut them in half if desired.
• Make the marinade: In a bowl, combine the olive oil, garlic slices, thyme, rosemary, red pepper flakes (if using), and lemon zest. Stir everything together to infuse the oil with the flavors.
• Marinate the cheeses: Place the cheeses into a shallow dish or jar and pour the marinade over them, ensuring they are well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight to allow the flavors to meld.
• Prepare the serving platter: When ready to serve, remove the marinated cheeses from the fridge. Arrange them on a large plate or platter in a visually appealing way, drizzling some of the marinade over the top.
• Garnish and serve: Sprinkle the marinated cheese with fresh parsley for a touch of color, and add any additional accompaniments like crackers, sliced baguette, or fresh fruits. Serve with your favorite wine or cocktails.