If you’re on the lookout for a crowd-pleasing snack that’s bursting with bold flavors and effortless charm, this Easy Marinated Cheese Appetizer Recipe with Salami & Pickles Recipe is exactly what you need. It combines creamy Havarti cheese, tangy cornichons, savory salami, and vibrant sun-dried tomatoes, all beautifully marinated in a zesty Italian vinaigrette. Whether you’re hosting friends or just craving a tasty nibble, this dish is a brilliant way to bring a touch of elegance to your table without any fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Easy Marinated Cheese Appetizer Recipe with Salami & Pickles Recipe shines because of its simple but thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each item adds a distinctive layer of taste or texture that makes every bite delightful and balanced.
- 6 oz Havarti Cheese: Cubed for the perfect creamy bite with a subtle buttery flavor.
- 1/2 cup Sun Dried Tomatoes: Adds a sweet and tangy punch with a chewy texture.
- 1 cup Salami: Diced salami brings a rich, savory, and slightly spiced element.
- 1/2 cup Cornichons: These tiny pickles contribute a crisp and tart contrast.
- 1/2 cup Castelvetrano Olives: Known for their mild, buttery flavor that complements the other ingredients.
- 2 tbsp Fresh Basil: Roughly chopped to add a fresh, herbal brightness that elevates the mix.
- 1 cup Garlic Expressions Italian Vinaigrette: Or your favorite Italian vinaigrette, this ties everything together with zesty, garlicky goodness.
How to Make Easy Marinated Cheese Appetizer Recipe with Salami & Pickles Recipe
Step 1: Mix It All Together
Grab a medium-sized mixing bowl and add the diced Havarti, salami, sun-dried tomatoes, cornichons, Castelvetrano olives, and fresh basil. Pour in the Italian vinaigrette and give everything a thorough stir so that each ingredient gets coated in the flavorful dressing. This simple mix is the heart of your Easy Marinated Cheese Appetizer Recipe with Salami & Pickles Recipe.
Step 2: Chill and Marinate
Transfer the mixture into a mason jar or a bowl covered tightly with plastic wrap. Pop it into the fridge and let those flavors mingle for at least 30 minutes. You can also prepare this up to a week in advance—just keep it in an airtight container for maximum freshness.
Step 3: Serve and Enjoy
Whether you serve it right away or after an extended marinade, this appetizer bursts with flavor at every bite. Give it one last stir before serving to redistribute the delicious vinaigrette, and get ready for compliments to roll in.
How to Serve Easy Marinated Cheese Appetizer Recipe with Salami & Pickles Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkling a few fresh basil leaves on top just before serving adds a lovely pop of color and a boost of fresh herbal aroma. You could also add a light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil for a silky finish.
Side Dishes
This appetizer pairs awesomely with crusty French bread, crisp crackers, or a simple green salad. It also shines alongside a chilled glass of white wine or a refreshing sparkling water with lemon.
Creative Ways to Present
For a beautiful presentation, arrange the marinated cheese mixture on a rustic wooden board with slices of baguette, olives on the side, and small bowls of extra pickles or sun-dried tomatoes. It makes for an inviting centerpiece that’s as charming visually as it is delicious.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftover Easy Marinated Cheese Appetizer Recipe with Salami & Pickles Recipe should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It keeps well for up to a week, allowing the flavors to deepen even more over time.
Freezing
This recipe isn’t ideal for freezing because the texture of the cheese and pickles can change once thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated.
Reheating
Since this dish is intended to be served cold or at room temperature, reheating is not necessary or recommended. Simply allow refrigerated leftovers to come to room temperature for the best flavor experience before serving again.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While Havarti is creamy and mild, you can experiment with cheeses like Gouda, Monterey Jack, or even a sharper cheddar. Just be mindful that the texture and flavor profile might shift slightly.
How long should I marinate this appetizer?
Although you can serve it immediately, letting it marinate for at least 30 minutes helps the flavors meld beautifully. For a more intense taste, marinate it overnight in the fridge.
Can I substitute the salami?
Yes! Feel free to swap salami for other cured meats like pepperoni, chorizo, or prosciutto according to your taste preferences or what you have on hand.
What if I don’t have Garlic Expressions vinaigrette?
No worries! Use any Italian-style vinaigrette or even make your own with olive oil, vinegar, garlic, and herbs. The dressing is key to tying everything together, so pick a flavorful option you love.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this appetizer is naturally gluten-free as long as the salami and vinaigrette you use don’t contain gluten additives. Always double-check labels if you are serving someone with gluten sensitivity.
Final Thoughts
What’s not to love about this Easy Marinated Cheese Appetizer Recipe with Salami & Pickles Recipe? It’s vibrant, forgiving, and incredibly flavorful—a guaranteed hit for any occasion. I encourage you to give it a try for your next gathering or as a delicious snack just because. Once you taste those marinated nuggets of goodness, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without this little culinary gem!
Print
Easy Marinated Cheese Appetizer Recipe with Salami & Pickles Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Description
This Easy Marinated Cheese Appetizer combines Havarti cheese, salami, tangy cornichons, and Castelvetrano olives marinated in a flavorful Italian vinaigrette. Perfect for quick entertaining or as a savory snack, this no-cook recipe is simple, fresh, and packed with bold Mediterranean flavors.
Ingredients
Cheese and Meats
- 6 oz Havarti Cheese, diced into bite-sized cubes (recommend Roth Original Havarti)
- 1 cup Salami, diced into bite-sized cubes
Pickled and Preserved Items
- 1/2 cup Sun Dried Tomatoes
- 1/2 cup Cornichons (small pickles)
- 1/2 cup Castelvetrano Olives
Herbs and Dressing
- 2 tbsp Fresh basil, roughly chopped
- 1 cup Garlic Expressions Italian style vinaigrette (or your preferred Italian vinaigrette)
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: Add the diced Havarti cheese, salami, sun-dried tomatoes, cornichons, Castelvetrano olives, and chopped fresh basil into a medium-sized mixing bowl. Stir gently to evenly distribute all components.
- Marinate: Pour the Italian vinaigrette dressing over the mixture. Stir until all ingredients are well-coated. Transfer the mixture into a mason jar or cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap.
- Refrigerate and Serve: You can serve the appetizer immediately or allow it to marinate in the fridge for deeper flavor. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
Notes
- Use a high-quality Havarti cheese for best flavor.
- If you prefer a spicier touch, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade.
- Castelvetrano olives provide a buttery and mild olive flavor; you may substitute with Kalamata olives if desired.
- This appetizer can be made a day ahead to let the flavors meld beautifully.
- Serve with crusty bread or crackers for a perfect party snack.
