Easy Marinated Cheese Appetizer with Salami & Pickles a flavorful and tangy marinated cheese appetizer with savory salami and crunchy pickles, perfect for gatherings and casual snacking. This dish is quick to prepare and loaded with bold flavors that pair beautifully with crackers, bread, or even on its own.
Ingredients
(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
8 oz block of cheddar cheese, cubed
8 oz block of mozzarella cheese, cubed
4 oz sliced salami, cut into quarters
½ cup pickles (gherkins or cornichons), sliced
¼ cup olive oil
2 tablespoon red wine vinegar
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
¼ teaspoon black pepper
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions
In a large bowl, combine the cheddar cheese cubes, mozzarella cheese cubes, salami pieces, and pickle slices.
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, red pepper flakes, and black pepper.
Pour the marinade over the cheese, salami, and pickles. Toss gently to coat everything evenly.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or up to 24 hours) to allow the flavors to meld.
Before serving, garnish with fresh parsley. Serve with toothpicks or small skewers for easy grabbing.
Servings and Timing
Servings: 6
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Marinating Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Calories: 220 per serving
Variations
Different Cheeses – Swap out cheddar and mozzarella for gouda, provolone, or Monterey Jack.
Meat Options – Instead of salami, try pepperoni, prosciutto, or turkey slices.
Extra Heat – Add more red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the marinade.
Herb Boost – Fresh basil or oregano can add a more aromatic touch.
Pickle Swap – Use pickled jalapeños or banana peppers for a spicy twist.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Since this dish is best served cold, there's no need for reheating. Simply give it a quick toss before serving again to redistribute the marinade.
FAQs
How long should I marinate the cheese?
At least 1 hour is ideal, but for deeper flavor, I like to let it marinate for up to 24 hours.
Can I make this appetizer ahead of time?
Yes! This is a perfect make-ahead dish. Just store it in the fridge and stir before serving.
What should I serve with this marinated cheese?
It pairs well with crackers, sliced baguette, or even fresh veggies like cherry tomatoes and cucumbers.
Can I use a different type of vinegar?
Absolutely! White wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar work well as substitutes for red wine vinegar.
Is this recipe keto-friendly?
Yes! The ingredients are all low in carbs, making it a great option for a keto-friendly appetizer.
Conclusion
This easy marinated cheese appetizer with salami and pickles is a crowd-pleaser that's full of bold flavors. It's simple to prepare, great for making ahead, and perfect for any gathering. Whether served as part of a charcuterie board or on its own, this dish is sure to be a hit.
Recipe:
Easy Marinated Cheese Appetizer with Salami & Pickles
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
Description
This easy marinated cheese appetizer with savory salami and crunchy pickles is the perfect dish for gatherings and snacking. Featuring bold flavors and a zesty marinade, this make-ahead appetizer pairs beautifully with crackers, bread, or fresh veggies. Quick to prepare and irresistibly delicious!
Ingredients
8 oz cheddar cheese, cubed
8 oz mozzarella cheese, cubed
4 oz sliced salami, cut into quarters
½ cup pickles (gherkins or cornichons), sliced
¼ cup olive oil
2 tbsp red wine vinegar
1 tsp Italian seasoning
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
¼ tsp black pepper
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, salami, and pickles.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, red pepper flakes, and black pepper.
- Pour the marinade over the cheese mixture and toss gently to coat.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or up to 24 hours for deeper flavor).
- Before serving, garnish with fresh parsley and serve with toothpicks or skewers.
Notes
Cheese Variations: Swap cheddar and mozzarella for gouda, provolone, or Monterey Jack.
Meat Options: Try pepperoni, prosciutto, or turkey slices instead of salami.
Spicy Twist: Add more red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce.
Storage: Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. No reheating needed—just toss before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Marinating Time: 1 hour
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American, Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6 servings
- Calories: 220 per serving
