Ingredients
- 8 oz block sharp cheddar cheese, cut into cubes
- 8 oz block pepper jack cheese, cut into cubes
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup sliced salami, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup small pickles (cornichons or dill pickles), sliced
- Fresh herbs, like parsley or basil, for garnish (optional)
Using block cheese that you cube yourself ensures the best texture and allows the marinade to cling to every surface. The mix of cheddar and pepper jack gives you a balance of sharpness, creaminess, and a little kick, while the salami and pickles bring salty, meaty, and tangy contrast.
How to make marinated cheese
1. Mix the marinade
In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, vinegar, dried Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until the mixture looks slightly thickened and emulsified. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed; you want it to be bright, slightly tangy, and well seasoned since it will be flavoring the cheese.
2. Marinate the cheese cubes
Add the cheddar and pepper jack cubes to the bowl and gently toss until every piece is coated in the marinade. Transfer to a shallow dish or container, pour any remaining marinade over the top, cover, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes and up to 2 hours, tossing once or twice so all sides get time in the dressing.
The cheese will absorb some of the vinaigrette and take on more flavor the longer it sits, but you still want it to stay firm, so avoid marinating much beyond a few hours.
Assembling the appetizer platter
When you’re ready to serve, arrange the marinated cheese cubes on a serving platter, letting a little of the marinade cling to the cheese for shine and flavor. Tuck the salami pieces and sliced pickles around and between the cheese cubes, filling in any gaps so the platter looks abundant and colorful. If using fresh herbs, sprinkle chopped parsley or basil over the top for a pop of green and extra freshness.
Set the platter out with toothpicks or small skewers so guests can easily grab cheese, salami, and pickle together in one bite, and offer crackers, crostini, or sliced baguette alongside.