Easy Marinated Cheese Appetizer with Salami Pickles

Easy Marinated Cheese Appetizer with Salami & Pickles

This marinated cheese appetizer is a party favorite! Featuring creamy cheese cubes soaked in a zesty herb marinade, paired with slices of savory salami and tangy pickles, it’s the perfect mix of flavors and textures. Easy to prepare and beautifully presented, this appetizer will have your guests reaching for seconds!

Ingredients

For the marinated cheese:

8 ounces of sharp cheddar cheese, cubed
8 ounces of pepper jack cheese, cubed
1/3 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon honey
1 clove garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried)
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and pepper, to taste

For assembly:

12-16 slices of salami (folded or rolled)
12-16 small dill pickles or pickle slices
Toothpicks or skewers

Instructions

Prepare the marinade: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, white wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, minced garlic, parsley, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Marinate the cheese: Place the cheese cubes in a shallow dish or resealable plastic bag. Pour the marinade over the cheese, ensuring all cubes are coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld.
Assemble the skewers: Remove the cheese cubes from the marinade and drain excess liquid. Thread a cheese cube, a folded slice of salami, and a small pickle onto a toothpick or skewer. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Serve and enjoy: Arrange the skewers on a platter and serve immediately.

Tips for Success

Use fresh herbs if possible: Fresh parsley or thyme will enhance the flavors of the marinade.
Cheese variety: Feel free to swap out the cheddar or pepper jack for your favorite cheeses, like Colby Jack or gouda.
Pickles matter: Opt for small, crunchy dill pickles or gherkins for the best bite-sized tanginess.

Why This Recipe Works

The combination of marinated cheese, salty salami, and tangy pickles creates a harmonious balance of flavors that’s irresistible. It’s an effortless yet elegant appetizer that can be prepped ahead, making it ideal for entertaining. Serve it at game nights, holiday gatherings, or casual parties—this easy recipe will be a crowd-pleaser every time!

A Burst of Flavor in Every Bite

This appetizer is all about contrast: the creamy, herb-marinated cheese cubes pair beautifully with the savory richness of salami and the tangy crunch of pickles. The marinade infuses the cheese with layers of garlic, herbs, and a touch of sweetness, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor. Together, these elements create a perfect harmony that keeps your taste buds intrigued.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you’re hosting a fancy dinner party, a casual backyard barbecue, or a festive holiday gathering, this marinated cheese appetizer is an excellent choice. It’s quick to prepare, visually appealing, and easy for guests to grab and enjoy. Plus, since you can make it ahead of time, you’ll have more time to focus on other dishes or just relax before the event.

Customizable to Your Taste

This recipe is incredibly versatile. You can swap out the cheese for your favorite variety, like gouda, havarti, or even feta. If you prefer spicier options, choose hot salami or add more crushed red pepper flakes to the marinade. Pickle lovers can experiment with bread-and-butter pickles or spicy dill spears for a unique twist. The combinations are endless, making it a great appetizer to personalize for your guests.

A Low-Stress, High-Impact Appetizer

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. It takes minimal effort to prepare but looks and tastes impressive enough to elevate any table spread. Whether served alongside a charcuterie board or on its own, this appetizer delivers sophistication and flavor without the fuss. It’s sure to become your go-to for any gathering