Easy Marinated Cheese Appetizer with Salami & Pickles

A Flavor-Packed Appetizer for Any Occasion

This easy marinated cheese appetizer combines rich, creamy cheese with tangy pickles and savory salami, all infused with a bold marinade. Perfect for holiday gatherings, game nights, or casual entertaining, this dish is simple to prepare yet full of flavor. Serve it with crackers, toasted bread, or fresh veggies for an irresistible bite-sized treat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy: Minimal prep time and no cooking required.
• Make-ahead friendly: The flavors improve as the cheese marinates.
• Balanced flavors: A perfect blend of creamy, salty, tangy, and savory elements.
• Customizable: Switch up the cheese, pickles, or salami to suit your taste.

Ingredients

• 8 oz block of cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or mozzarella)
• 3 oz salami, thinly sliced
• ½ cup pickles, sliced (dill, bread-and-butter, or cornichons)
• ¼ cup olive oil
• 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tsp honey (optional, for a touch of sweetness)
• ½ tsp dried oregano
• ½ tsp dried basil
• ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• 1 small garlic clove, minced
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients

• Cut the cheese into small cubes (about ½-inch pieces).
• Slice the salami into bite-sized strips.
• Drain and slice the pickles into thin rounds or small chunks.

2. Make the Marinade

• In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey (if using), oregano, basil, crushed red pepper, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper.

3. Marinate the Cheese

• In a shallow dish or bowl, layer the cheese cubes, salami, and pickles.
• Pour the marinade over the top, ensuring everything is evenly coated.
• Gently toss to combine.

4. Refrigerate

• Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or up to overnight) to allow flavors to meld.

5. Serve & Enjoy

• Remove from the fridge 15 minutes before serving to let the flavors shine.
• Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with crackers, crostini, or fresh vegetables.

Variations & Substitutions

• Change the cheese: Try gouda, pepper jack, or feta for a different flavor profile.
• Use different meats: Swap salami for prosciutto, pepperoni, or smoked turkey.
• Add olives: Green or black olives add a briny depth.
• Make it spicy: Use hot pickles or add more crushed red pepper flakes.
• Herb variations: Substitute fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for an aromatic twist.

Servings & Timing

• Servings: 4–6 people
• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Marinating time: At least 1 hour
• Total time: 1 hour 10 minutes

Storage & Reheating

• Storage: Keep refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: No reheating necessary—serve cold or at room temperature.
• Make-ahead tip: Marinate overnight for the best flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

How far in advance can I make this appetizer?

You can make it up to 24 hours in advance. The flavors get even better as they sit.

What cheese works best for marinating?

Semi-hard cheeses like cheddar, Monterey Jack, gouda, or mozzarella hold up well in the marinade without breaking down.

Can I use a store-bought marinade?

Yes! If short on time, use Italian dressing or a high-quality vinaigrette.

What pickles should I use?

Dill pickles offer a classic tang, but bread-and-butter or spicy pickles add a unique twist.

Can I add vegetables?

Absolutely! Cherry tomatoes, roasted red peppers, or artichoke hearts pair beautifully.

Is this dish keto-friendly?

Yes—just skip the honey and use sugar-free pickles for a keto-approved version.

What’s the best way to serve it?

Serve on a charcuterie board with crackers, crostini, or fresh-cut veggies.

How long should I let it marinate?

At least 1 hour, but overnight yields the best flavor.

Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?

Yes! Use three times the amount of fresh herbs for an aromatic boost.

What wine pairs well with this appetizer?

Try a light red wine like Pinot Noir or a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc to complement the flavors.

Conclusion

This Easy Marinated Cheese Appetizer with Salami & Pickles is a simple yet elegant addition to any gathering. With its bold flavors, effortless preparation, and endless customization, it’s bound to be a crowd-pleaser. Make it ahead of time, serve with your favorite accompaniments, and watch it disappear.

O

Print