Easy Marinated Cheese & Salami

Featured in Finger Foods and Party Snacks.

This marinated cheese appetizer combines cheese cubes, salami pieces, and pickles with a flavorful marinade of olive oil, white wine vinegar, garlic, fresh herbs, and optional spices. Simply cut the cheese into cubes, quarter the salami slices, and prepare the pickles before layering them in a dish. Pour the prepared marinade over the top, ensuring every piece is coated. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to achieve a harmonious flavor blend. Serve at room temperature for maximum taste.

Fatiha
Updated on Thu, 29 May 2025 12:04:47 GMT
A bowl of meat and vegetables. Pin it
A bowl of meat and vegetables. | zestplate.com

This marinated cheese appetizer transforms basic ingredients into an impressive party platter with minimal effort. The combination of creamy cheese, savory salami, and tangy pickles creates an irresistible flavor medley that develops as it sits in the herb-infused marinade.

I first created this appetizer for an impromptu neighborhood gathering when I needed something quick yet impressive. The empty platter and requests for the recipe convinced me this easy marinated cheese would become my signature potluck contribution.

Ingredients

  • Firm cheese block or cubes: The foundation of this appetizer; choose quality cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Colby for best results
  • Salami slices: Adds richness and savory depth; look for good quality Italian dry salami with visible marbling
  • Pickles: Provides tangy contrast and crunch; select crisp dill or sweet bread and butter varieties
  • Extra virgin olive oil: Forms the base of your marinade; splurge on a good bottle with fruity notes
  • White wine vinegar: Brings necessary acidity; champagne vinegar works beautifully too
  • Fresh herbs: Infuses aromatic flavor; fresh is essential for brightest taste
  • Garlic cloves: Adds pungent warmth; choose firm bulbs with tight skin
  • Crushed red pepper flakes: Optional heat element; adjust to your preference
  • Salt: Enhances all flavors; kosher salt works best
  • Black pepper: Adds subtle spice; freshly ground provides maximum flavor
  • Honey or sugar: Balances acidity with gentle sweetness; raw honey offers more complex flavor

How To Make Easy Marinated Cheese Appetizer

Cube the Cheese:
Cut your block of cheese into uniform 1-inch cubes using a sharp knife. Consistency in size ensures each piece absorbs the marinade evenly and provides the perfect bite-sized morsel for guests to enjoy.
Prepare the Accompaniments:
Quarter each salami slice into triangular pieces and ensure pickles are in bite-sized pieces. Take a moment to pat both dry with paper towels, which prevents excess moisture from diluting your flavorful marinade.
Craft the Marinade:
Combine olive oil, white wine vinegar, minced garlic, chopped herbs, seasonings, and sweetener in a bowl. Whisk thoroughly until emulsified, creating a harmonious blend that will infuse every component with flavor.
Assemble the Components:
Layer cheese cubes, salami quarters, and pickle pieces in a shallow container with enough space for the marinade to circulate. Pour your prepared marinade over everything, gently tossing to ensure complete coverage.
Allow Flavors to Develop:
Cover your container and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, though overnight yields the most developed flavor profile. Occasionally stir gently to redistribute the marinade, ensuring even flavor distribution throughout all components.
A bowl of food with olives, cheese, and meat. Pin it
A bowl of food with olives, cheese, and meat. | zestplate.com

This appetizer has saved countless gatherings when unexpected guests arrive. The magic happens in the marinade where the herbs infuse the oil, which then penetrates the cheese with incredible flavor. My grandmother always said good food doesn't need to be complicated, and this recipe proves her wisdom perfectly.

Storage Suggestions

The marinated cheese appetizer maintains its quality in the refrigerator for up to one week when stored in an airtight container. The olive oil may solidify slightly when chilled, so remember to remove it from refrigeration about 30 minutes before serving. As the cheese sits in the marinade, the flavors continue to develop and intensify, making this an excellent make-ahead option for busy hosts.

Creative Variations

Experiment with different cheese combinations to create unique flavor profiles. Try mixing cubed feta with cherry tomatoes and olives for a Mediterranean twist, or swap in smoked gouda with chorizo for a deeper, smokier option. For a vegetarian version, replace salami with roasted red peppers and artichoke hearts. The marinade remains versatile enough to complement these variations while maintaining its signature character.

A bowl of food with cheese and pickles. Pin it
A bowl of food with cheese and pickles. | zestplate.com

Serving Ideas

Present this marinated cheese appetizer in a shallow serving bowl surrounded by crackers, crusty bread slices, and additional fresh herbs for garnish. For elegant entertaining, arrange components on small skewers as ready-to-eat bites. The colorful presentation makes this dish as visually appealing as it is delicious. Consider serving alongside a crisp white wine or light beer to complement the rich flavors.

Perfect Pairings

This versatile appetizer works beautifully with various accompaniments. Serve with a selection of artisanal crackers, sliced baguette, or even endive leaves for a low-carb option. The combination of savory cheese, cured meat, and tangy pickles pairs wonderfully with sparkling wines like Prosecco or Cava, whose effervescence cuts through the richness. For beer enthusiasts, a crisp pilsner or wheat beer offers refreshing contrast.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ What type of cheese works best for this dish?

Firm cheeses like cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Colby Jack work best as they hold their shape and absorb the marinade well.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, it's recommended to marinate the ingredients overnight for the best flavor. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge.

→ What can I use as a substitute for salami?

Thinly sliced prosciutto, pepperoni, or even turkey slices can work as a substitute for salami.

→ Is it necessary to include the honey or sugar?

No, the honey or sugar is optional. It adds a slight sweetness, but you can skip it if you prefer a fully savory dish.

→ How should I serve this appetizer?

Serve it chilled or at room temperature with toothpicks. You can also pair it with crusty bread or crackers for a heartier treat.

→ Can I adjust the spice level?

Yes, you can increase or decrease the crushed red pepper flakes based on your spice tolerance, or omit them entirely for a milder flavor.

Marinated Cheese with Salami

Cheese, salami, and pickles in a zesty herb marinade for a perfect appetizer.

Prep Time
15 Minutes
Cook Time
~
Total Time
15 Minutes
By: Fatiha


Difficulty: Easy

Cuisine: American

Yield: 8 Servings

Dietary: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free

Ingredients

→ Main Components

01 1 pound firm cheese (cubed, such as cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Colby Jack)
02 8-10 large slices salami (cut into quarters)
03 ½ cup pickles (small or sliced, e.g., dill or bread-and-butter)

→ Marinade

04 ⅓ cup extra virgin olive oil
05 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
06 1 tablespoon fresh parsley or thyme (chopped)
07 2 garlic cloves (minced)
08 ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
09 ¼ teaspoon salt
10 ¼ teaspoon black pepper
11 1 teaspoon honey or sugar (optional)

Instructions

Step 01

Cut the block of cheese into uniform 1-inch cubes for consistent marinating.

Step 02

Quarter the salami slices and slice the pickles if necessary. Pat them dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.

Step 03

In a medium bowl, whisk together olive oil, white wine vinegar, minced garlic, fresh herbs, crushed red pepper flakes, salt, black pepper, and honey or sugar until well combined.

Step 04

In a large bowl or resealable container, layer the cheese cubes, salami quarters, and pickles. Pour the marinade over the top, ensuring even coating.

Step 05

Cover and refrigerate the container for at least 2 hours, or overnight for better flavor. Stir occasionally to ensure even marination. Bring to room temperature before serving.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 160
  • Total Fat: 12 g
  • Total Carbohydrate: 3.5 g
  • Protein: 8 g