Looking for an appetizer that’s simple yet impressive? This Marinated Cheese Appetizer with Salami and Pickles is your go-to! It’s loaded with flavor, takes minimal prep, and has a little something for everyone. Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or bringing a dish to a holiday potluck, this dish brings the best of savory, tangy, and creamy all in one bite.

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Why This Appetizer Works

This recipe combines sharp cheddar and spicy pepper jack with tangy pickles and savory salami, making it a unique yet universally appealing choice. The cheese cubes absorb a simple marinade that’s easy to whip up and adds that extra punch of flavor. Plus, arranging it on a platter with pickles and salami makes it visually appealing and perfect for grazing.

Ingredients You’ll Need 🛒

Cheddar Cheese (8 oz)
Sharp cheddar provides a strong, savory flavor that balances well with the tang of the pickles and the seasoning of the marinade.
Pepper Jack Cheese (8 oz)
Pepper jack cheese adds a hint of spice, giving each bite a little kick and pairing nicely with the salami and pickles.
Olive Oil (1/4 cup)
Olive oil forms the base of the marinade, helping the flavors of the seasoning infuse into the cheese.
White Wine or Apple Cider Vinegar (1/4 cup)
Vinegar adds tang to the marinade, creating a nice contrast to the richness of the cheese.
Dried Italian Seasoning (1 tsp)
Italian seasoning gives the marinade a warm, herby touch with hints of basil, oregano, and thyme.
Garlic Powder (1/2 tsp)
Garlic powder adds a mild garlicky flavor, enhancing the savory notes of the cheese and salami.
Salt and Pepper (to taste)
A touch of salt and pepper balances the flavors in the marinade, adding depth to each bite.
Salami (1/2 cup, sliced into bite-sized pieces)
Salami adds a rich, meaty component to the appetizer, complementing the cheeses’ flavors and adding a satisfying chewiness.
Pickles (1/2 cup, sliced)
Pickles, especially cornichons or dill, provide a tangy crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy cheeses.
Fresh Herbs (Parsley or Basil, optional)
Fresh herbs not only add a pop of color but also provide an additional layer of flavor. Parsley’s mild flavor works well here, as does the sweetness of basil.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Marinated Cheese

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade 🌿

In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil and vinegar until they’re well combined. Add the Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper, adjusting to taste. The vinegar will provide tang, while the seasoning infuses the cheese with herby, savory notes. Give it a quick taste and adjust as needed. Remember, the marinade is the main flavor source, so make sure it’s flavorful and balanced.

Step 2: Marinate the Cheese 🧀

Cut the Cheese into Cubes
Cut the cheddar and pepper jack cheese into even cubes, about 1/2 to 1-inch in size. This allows each piece to soak up the marinade, making every bite flavorful.
Add Cheese to the Marinade
Gently toss the cheese cubes in the marinade, ensuring each piece is well coated. The oil will cling to the cheese, while the vinegar and seasonings seep into each cube for that tangy, herby flavor.
Marinate in the Fridge
Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, but if you have the time, marinate for up to 2 hours. The longer marination enhances the flavor, making each piece more robust and delicious.

Step 3: Assemble the Appetizer 🍖🥒

Arrange Cheese Cubes
After marinating, remove the cheese cubes from the fridge and arrange them on a platter or serving dish. They’re the star of the show, so place them in the center or in a circular pattern for an eye-catching display.
Add Salami and Pickles
Place the salami slices and pickle slices around the cheese cubes. The combination of pink salami, yellow cheddar, white pepper jack, and green pickles creates a vibrant color palette, making it instantly appetizing.
Garnish with Fresh Herbs
For a fresh touch, sprinkle chopped parsley or whole basil leaves on top. Not only does this enhance the visual appeal, but it also adds a subtle freshness that balances the dish’s rich and tangy flavors.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy 🎉

Serve the appetizer with crackers or baguette slices for a complete spread. The creamy cheese, tangy pickles, and savory salami pair perfectly with the crunch of crackers, creating a well-rounded appetizer that’s ideal for sharing.

Tips for the Best Marinated Cheese Appetizer

Use Fresh, High-Quality Cheese: Cheese is the main ingredient, so choose high-quality cheddar and pepper jack for the best flavor.
Experiment with Marinade Flavors: You can add other spices like red pepper flakes for heat or a touch of honey for sweetness.
Don’t Over-Marinate: While longer marination enhances flavor, marinate for a maximum of 2 hours. Any longer, and the vinegar might start to break down the cheese.
Pair with Complementary Dips: A mild mustard or a herbed cream cheese dip on the side adds an extra layer of flavor to each bite.

Serving Suggestions and Variations 🍇🥖

This marinated cheese appetizer is versatile and easy to customize based on your preferences:

Add Fresh Vegetables: For a colorful twist, add cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, or olives alongside the pickles.
Include Different Cheeses: Feel free to add other cheeses, like gouda or mozzarella, for varied textures and flavors.
Make a Grazing Board: Add fresh fruits like grapes or apple slices for a sweet contrast. Nuts like almonds or walnuts also add a crunchy texture that pairs well with the creamy cheese.
Serve with Wine: This appetizer pairs beautifully with light red wines, like Pinot Noir, or crisp white wines, like Sauvignon Blanc. The tanginess of the cheese and vinegar complements these wines’ acidity.

Perfect for Any Gathering 🎊

This Easy Marinated Cheese Appetizer with Salami & Pickles is a crowd-pleaser that can fit any occasion, from a casual movie night to a holiday party. The mix of flavors is sure to satisfy different palates, and it’s easy to scale up if you’re serving a larger crowd.