Easy Make-Ahead Marinated Cheese Cubes with Herb Vinaigrette
Make this simple, flavorful marinated cheese appetizer ahead of time for your next gathering. Cubes of cheddar and cream cheese soak in an herby oil marinade, creating a perfect finger food.
- Prep Time: 15 min
- Cook Time: 0 min
- Total Time: 8 hr 15 min
- Yield: About 4 cups
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Marinating
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
- 8 ounces cream cheese, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup white wine vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup sliced pimento-stuffed green olives (optional variation)
Instructions
- Combine the cheddar and cream cheese cubes in a medium, non-reactive container or a wide-mouth jar.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, white wine vinegar, minced garlic, oregano, basil, thyme, pepper, and salt until well combined. This creates your easy cheese marinade.
- Pour the marinade mixture over the cheese cubes, ensuring all pieces are submerged. If using olives, add them now.
- Cover the container tightly. Refrigerate for at least 8 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the marinated cheese to absorb the flavors.
- When ready to serve, let the cheese sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving.
- Serve the marinated cheese cubes with toothpicks alongside crackers, crusty bread, or vegetable sticks.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, you can substitute half of the olive oil with avocado oil.
- This is a great make-ahead appetizer; it tastes best after marinating for 24 hours.
- If you want a spicier bite, add 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the marinade.
- This recipe works well for holiday appetizer recipes and party cheese board ideas.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 cup
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 1
- Sodium: 250
- Fat: 19
- Saturated Fat: 7
- Unsaturated Fat: 12
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 1
- Fiber: 0
- Protein: 8
- Cholesterol: 25
Find it online: https://hungryhearld.com/marinated-cheese-recipe-easy-appetizer/