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Marinated Cheese

This simple marinated cheese recipe combines cheese, herbs, and a tangy marinade for a beautiful and flavorful appetizer that’s perfect for entertaining.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine: Italian, Mediterranean
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

Cheese
  • 1 block Firm cheddar cheese Can also use mozzarella or cream cheese.
  • 1 cup Mini fresh mozzarella balls Optional, for a variety in texture.
  • 1 cup Cream cheese For a richer contrast in flavor.
  • 1 cup Feta cheese Use Mediterranean style flavors.
Herbs and Spices
  • 2 teaspoons Dried oregano Gives an Italian flavor.
  • 2 teaspoons Dried basil An aromatic herb that pairs well with cheese.
  • 2 cloves Garlic, minced Enhances the savory taste but use sparingly.
  • 1 teaspoon Red pepper flakes Adds a slight heat to the marinade.
Marinade
  • 1/2 cup Extra virgin olive oil Best for flavorful marination.
  • 1/4 cup Vinegar A sharp vinegar complements cheddar well.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Cut the cheddar and cream cheese into small uniform cubes.
  2. In a bowl, combine mini mozzarella balls, if using.
  3. In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, vinegar, garlic, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes.
Marinating
  1. Place all cheeses in a jar or container.
  2. Pour the marinade over the cheese ensuring all pieces are coated.
  3. Seal the container and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to 1 hour.
Serving
  1. Serve marinated cheese on a platter with crackers or sliced baguette.
  2. Garnish with fresh herbs, if desired, for an aesthetic touch.

Notes

Experiment with different cheeses and herbs for variety. Allowing the cheese to marinate overnight can enhance the flavor, but be cautious with softer cheeses like mozzarella or cream cheese as they may become overly soft.