The Ultimate Marinated Cheese Antipasto Recipe for Party Magic

Cheese lovers rejoice as this marinated cheese antipasto dances with vibrant Mediterranean flavors.

Olive oil, herbs, and spices infuse each delicate cube with irresistible depth.

Bold garlic and fragrant rosemary complement the creamy cheese perfectly.

The recipe brings elegant simplicity to your appetizer spread.

Fresh ingredients create a stunning starter that looks as incredible as it tastes.

Each bite promises a burst of tangy, herbal goodness.

You’ll want to serve this crowd-pleasing dish at every gathering.

FAQs

• What ingredients do I need for this marinated cheese antipasto?

You’ll need a mix of cheeses like mozzarella, feta, or provolone, olive oil, herbs like basil and oregano, garlic, red pepper flakes, and optional additions like olives or sun-dried tomatoes.

• How long can I keep this marinated cheese in the refrigerator?

The marinated cheese can be stored in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to one week, allowing the flavors to develop and intensify over time.

• Can I customize the marinade to suit my taste preferences?

Absolutely! Experiment with different herbs, spices, and additional ingredients like roasted red peppers, capers, or fresh herbs to create your unique flavor profile.

Why Marinated Cheese Antipasto Steals the Show

• Savor Quick Flavor Fusion: This marinated cheese antipasto delivers incredible taste with minimal prep, blending ingredients rapidly for a gourmet experience.
• Maximize Meal Flexibility: Perfect for advance preparation, the recipe allows marinating up to one week, making it ideal for spontaneous entertaining or busy weeknight appetizers.
• Customize with Ease: Simple mixing technique lets you experiment with different herbs, spices, and cheese varieties, creating a personalized touch that suits any palate.
• Impress Without Stress: Requires basic kitchen skills, making it accessible for home cooks of all levels while delivering a sophisticated, restaurant-quality starter.

What Goes into Marinated Cheese Antipasto

• Cheese: A flavorful base that absorbs the marinade and provides a rich, creamy texture.
• Olive Oil: Creates a smooth coating and helps infuse flavors into the cheese.

• Basil, Oregano, Thyme: Aromatic herbs that add depth and traditional Mediterranean flavor to the antipasto.
• Black Pepper, Salt: Essential seasonings that enhance the overall taste profile of the dish.

• Garlic, Red Pepper Flakes: Provides a spicy kick and bold, pungent flavor to complement the cheese.
• Lemon Zest: Adds a bright, citrusy note that cuts through the richness of the cheese.

Steps to Delicious Marinated Cheese Antipasto

Step 1: Prepare Cheese and Herbs

Cut the cheese into bite-sized cubes or rectangular pieces.

Gather your fresh herbs like basil, oregano, and thyme.

Finely chop the herbs to release their aromatic flavors and distribute them evenly.

Step 2: Create Flavorful Marinade

• Olive oil
• Balsamic vinegar
• Minced garlic
• Red pepper flakes
• Salt
• Black pepper

Blend the ingredients until they form a smooth, well-incorporated marinade that will infuse the cheese with incredible taste.

Step 3: Coat and Combine

Gently pour the marinade over the cheese cubes.

Using a soft spatula, carefully fold the cheese, ensuring each piece gets completely coated with the herbal and tangy mixture.

Make sure the herbs and spices are evenly distributed.

Step 4: Marinate and Chill

Transfer the marinated cheese to an airtight glass container.

Seal the container and refrigerate.

Let the cheese absorb the flavors for at least 2 hours, though overnight marinating will create even more intense taste profiles.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Remove the marinated cheese from the refrigerator about 15 minutes before serving to allow it to come to room temperature.

Arrange on a beautiful platter, garnish with additional fresh herbs, and serve alongside crusty bread or crackers for a delightful appetizer.

Marinating Tips for Cheese Lovers

• Let the cheese marinate for at least 24 hours to develop deeper, richer taste profiles.
• Adjust red pepper flakes to match your heat preference, from mild to fiery.
• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain optimal texture and taste.
• Use as a topping for salads, crackers, or grilled vegetables for extra zesty flair.
• Choose firm cheeses like mozzarella or feta that absorb marinade well without falling apart.

Antipasto Platter: Switch Up the Flavors

• Vegan Cheese Alternative: Replace dairy cheese with firm tofu or plant-based cheese blocks, marinated in same herb and oil mixture for similar texture and flavor profile.
• Gluten-Free Option: Ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free, using tamari instead of soy sauce and checking herb blend for potential wheat contamination.
• Low-Sodium Version: Use reduced-sodium herbs, replace salt with fresh herb blends, and select low-sodium cheese varieties to minimize overall salt content.
• Mediterranean Fusion: Incorporate kalamata olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and add za'atar spice blend for a more regional Mediterranean flavor experience.

Creative Ways to Serve Cheese Antipasto

• Rustic Italian Platter: Arrange marinated cheese slices on a wooden board with cured meats, olives, and crusty bread for an authentic antipasto experience.
• Salad Topper Magic: Chop the marinated cheese and sprinkle over mixed greens for a zesty, flavor-packed salad enhancement.
• Elegant Appetizer Spread: Serve alongside crackers, thin breadsticks, or crostini for a sophisticated party starter that guests will love.
• Sandwich Upgrade: Use the marinated cheese as a gourmet filling or spread for sandwiches, adding rich Mediterranean-inspired flavors.

Tips for Keeping Antipasto Fresh

• – Refrigerate Store the marinated cheese in an airtight container in the coldest part of your refrigerator to maintain freshness and preserve the robust flavors.
• – Preserve Keep the antipasto for up to one week, allowing the herbs and oils to continue infusing the cheese with delicious Mediterranean-inspired tastes.
• – Separate Layer parchment paper between cheese pieces to prevent sticking and maintain individual cheese integrity during storage.
• – Check Inspect the marinated cheese periodically for any signs of spoilage, ensuring the olive oil remains clear and the cheese looks vibrant and appetizing.

Marinated Cheese Antipasto Recipe

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4.8 from 17 reviews

• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yield: 8 1x

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Description

Delectable Marinated Cheese Antipasto weaves Italian culinary magic into a simple yet sophisticated appetizer. Savory herbs, tangy olive oil, and rich cheese create an irresistible blend you’ll crave at every gathering.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Proteins:

• 1 cup salami, cubed
• 6 ounces (170 grams) Havarti cheese, cubed

Briny and Acidic Components:

• 1/2 cup cornichons
• 1/2 cup Castelvetrano olives
• 1/2 cup sun dried tomatoes

Herbs and Dressing:

• 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
• 1 cup garlic vinaigrette

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Instructions

1. Whisk olive oil, vinegar, herbs, and seasonings in a spacious mixing bowl until fully integrated and aromatic.
2. Carefully layer cubed cheese varieties into the prepared marinade, ensuring each piece is evenly coated.
3. Gently fold in minced garlic, red pepper flakes, and sliced olives to distribute flavors throughout the mixture.
4. Cover the bowl with a tight-fitting lid or plastic wrap, refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow flavors to meld.
5. For optimal taste, let the antipasto marinate overnight, allowing herbs and spices to deeply penetrate the cheese.
6. Before serving, remove from refrigerator and let sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes to soften and enhance flavor complexity.
7. Transfer to a decorative serving platter, garnish with fresh herbs, and accompany with crusty bread or crackers.
8. Store remaining antipasto in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week, shaking occasionally to redistribute marinade.

Notes

• Try different herb combinations like rosemary, thyme, or basil to customize the flavor profile.
• Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for the best taste and richness in the marinade.
• Opt for firm cheeses like mozzarella, provolone, or feta that hold their shape and absorb flavors well.
• Consider adding roasted red peppers or olives for extra texture and Mediterranean-inspired complexity.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Category: Appetizer, Snacks
• Method: None
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 8
• Calories: 365
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 1,200 mg
• Fat: 30 g
• Saturated Fat: 10 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 18 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 9 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 14 g
• Cholesterol: 40 mg