If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing, flavor-packed appetizer that’s simple to make and ideal for any occasion, this Easy Marinated Cheese Appetizer with Salami & Pickles is just the recipe! It’s filled with creamy Havarti cheese, tangy pickles, savory salami, and vibrant sun-dried tomatoes, all brought together with fresh basil and a garlicky vinaigrette that infuses everything with delicious flavor. This dish can be made in just minutes, and the longer it marinates, the better it gets. Serve it at parties, picnics, or even as a special snack to treat yourself
Ingredients and Preparation
Let’s dive into the ingredients and steps to get this show-stopping appetizer ready.
Ingredients
- Havarti Cheese (6 oz)
- Choose a high-quality Havarti cheese, such as Roth Original, known for its creamy, mild flavor. Dice it into bite-sized cubes (around ½-inch) to ensure every bite includes a smooth, rich texture. Havarti melts slightly as it marinates, absorbing flavors well.
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes (½ cup)
- Use oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes for the best texture and flavor. Their slightly sweet, tangy taste adds depth to the dish. If they are too large, chop them into smaller pieces to distribute throughout the appetizer.
- Salami (1 cup)
- Select a good-quality salami that complements the cheese. Cut into cubes similar in size to the cheese. Salami’s meaty, savory taste provides a nice contrast with the creamy Havarti. You can use hard salami, Genoa, or any favorite cured salami variety.
- Cornichons (½ cup)
- Cornichons are small, tangy pickles with a crisp bite that balances the rich, savory ingredients. If cornichons are unavailable, you can substitute with small, tart pickles and dice them similarly.
- Castelvetrano Olives (½ cup)
- Known for their mild, buttery taste, Castelvetrano olives add a mellow, briny element that doesn’t overpower the other flavors. You can find them pitted; if not, remove the pits and chop them into bite-sized pieces. Substitute with green or mild black olives if desired.
- Fresh Basil (2 tbsp)
- Fresh basil brings a light sweetness and herbal aroma that brightens the entire dish. Chop roughly, leaving some larger pieces for a beautiful presentation and balanced flavor.
- Garlic Vinaigrette (1 cup)
- Garlic Expressions is recommended for its garlicky, tangy profile, but any high-quality Italian-style vinaigrette works well. The vinaigrette acts as a marinade, coating each ingredient with flavor. Ensure it has a garlicky and slightly acidic taste to balance the richness of the cheese and salami.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Combine the Ingredients
In a medium mixing bowl, add the Havarti cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, salami, cornichons, and Castelvetrano olives. Gently toss them together to evenly distribute the ingredients. The balance of textures and flavors is what makes this appetizer so delightful, from the creaminess of the Havarti to the crisp bite of the cornichons.
Step 2: Add Fresh Basil
Roughly chop about 2 tablespoons of fresh basil and add it to the bowl. Fresh basil provides a hint of sweetness and a pop of color that enhances the look and taste of the dish. This addition is crucial for that authentic, Italian-inspired flavor.
Step 3: Pour in the Vinaigrette
Add 1 cup of Garlic Expressions or your favorite Italian-style vinaigrette. The dressing will serve as a marinade, infusing each ingredient with a rich, tangy, and slightly garlicky flavor profile. If you don’t have Garlic Expressions on hand, any high-quality Italian vinaigrette will work beautifully.
Step 4: Mix and Transfer
Use a large spoon to gently stir all the ingredients until they’re well mixed and coated with the vinaigrette. This step ensures that the dressing seeps into every nook and cranny, so you get a burst of flavor in each bite.
Next, transfer the mixture to a mason jar or cover the mixing bowl tightly with plastic wrap.
Step 5: Refrigerate and Marinate
Place the covered mixture in the fridge. You can serve this dish right away, but for best results, let it marinate for at least 1–2 hours, or even overnight. This allows the flavors to blend, making each ingredient even more delicious. The appetizer can last in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week, so it’s perfect for prepping ahead.
Serving Suggestions
When ready to serve, this marinated cheese appetizer can be presented in various ways:
- Serve as is in a bowl or on a charcuterie board with toothpicks for easy grabbing.
- Pair with crusty bread or crackers to scoop up the marinated cheese, salami, and pickles.
- Add to a salad for an easy lunch or an elevated side dish.
- Offer it with skewers so guests can pick their own combinations of cheese, salami, and olives.
Tips for Perfecting the Recipe
- Choose Quality Ingredients: Since this appetizer relies on a small number of ingredients, it’s worth choosing high-quality cheese, olives, and salami.
- Experiment with Cheese: While Havarti is creamy and mild, feel free to experiment with other cheeses, like gouda, sharp cheddar, or even feta for a saltier twist.
- Let it Marinate: The longer you let the mixture sit in the fridge, the more the flavors will meld. Overnight is ideal, but if you’re short on time, an hour will still provide great flavor.
- Try Other Herbs: If you want to change things up, add a mix of fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or rosemary for different flavor profiles.
- Use Fresh Cornichons: Cornichons provide the perfect tang and crisp texture, but you could also use regular pickles, diced into smaller pieces if that’s what you have on hand.
Why This Appetizer Works So Well
This marinated cheese dish is unique because it combines creamy, tangy, and savory flavors with minimal effort. The cheese’s richness pairs well with the tang of the cornichons and olives, while the salami adds a meaty depth. This recipe also works well for those following low-carb diets or anyone looking for a gluten-free option.
Nutritional Information (Approximate)
Per 1/4 cup serving:
- Calories: 220
- Protein: 10g
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 1g
This recipe provides a good source of protein and healthy fats, making it both satisfying and suitable as a balanced appetizer.
FAQs
Q: Can I use other types of cheese?
A: Absolutely! You can substitute Havarti with cheeses like cheddar, gouda, mozzarella, or even feta, though each will bring a unique flavor and texture.
Q: How long can I store this appetizer in the fridge?
A: This appetizer can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. In fact, it often tastes better after a day or two of marinating.
Q: Can I make this appetizer ahead of time?
A: Yes! This recipe is perfect for prepping ahead since the flavors improve as it marinates. Prepare it the night before, and it will be ready to serve whenever you need it.
Q: What can I serve alongside this dish?
A: This appetizer pairs well with crusty bread, crackers, and even fresh vegetables like bell peppers and cucumbers. It’s also great alongside other charcuterie items, like prosciutto, nuts, and fruits.
Q: Can I make this without meat for a vegetarian option?
A: Certainly. Just omit the salami for a vegetarian-friendly version. You can also add extra olives or even artichoke hearts for more texture and flavor.
Q: What’s the best way to keep leftovers fresh?
A: Store any leftovers in a sealed, airtight container in the fridge. This keeps the flavors fresh and ensures the appetizer is ready for snacking whenever you want.
Conclusion
This Easy Marinated Cheese Appetizer with Salami & Pickles is a versatile, mouth-watering addition to any table. Simple to make and packed with flavor, it’s perfect for gatherings, holidays, or casual evenings at home. With just a handful of ingredients and a quick prep time, you’ll have a delicious appetizer that keeps guests coming back for more. Enjoy it fresh or let it marinate for an even bolder taste!
