Easy Marinated Cheese Appetizer with Salami & Pickles

Description

This Easy Marinated Cheese Appetizer with Salami & Pickles is a vibrant, flavor-packed party starter that’s simple yet elegant. Cubes of cheese are marinated in a zesty blend of olive oil, herbs, and spices, then paired with savory slices of salami and tangy pickles. The marinade infuses the cheese with a rich, herby flavor, while the salami adds saltiness and the pickles bring a refreshing crunch. Perfect for holidays, game nights, or any casual gathering, this no-cook appetizer is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients For Easy Marinated Cheese Appetizer with Salami & Pickles

Cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or gouda) – 12 oz, cut into 1-inch cubes

• Salami – 6 oz, sliced into bite-size rounds

• Pickles – 1 cup, cut into small chunks (cornichons or dill pickles work best)

• Olive oil – ½ cup

• Red wine vinegar – 2 tbsp

• Garlic – 2 cloves, minced

• Fresh parsley – 2 tbsp, chopped

• Dried oregano – 1 tsp

• Crushed red pepper flakes – ½ tsp (optional, for a little kick)

• Salt & black pepper – to taste

• Toothpicks or skewers – for serving

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade:
   In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, vinegar, garlic, parsley, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper.

2. Marinate the Cheese:
   Add the cheese cubes into a container or jar. Pour the marinade over the cheese, making sure all cubes are coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2–4 hours (overnight for best flavor).

3. Assemble the Appetizer:
   On small toothpicks or skewers, thread one cheese cube, one slice of salami (folded), and one pickle piece.

4. Serve & Enjoy:
   Arrange on a platter, drizzle lightly with leftover marinade if desired, and serve chilled or at room temperature.

Notes

• The longer the cheese marinates, the more flavorful it becomes.

• Use firm cheeses like cheddar, Colby Jack, Monterey Jack, or gouda — soft cheeses won’t hold up well.

• Mini mozzarella balls can also be used for a softer, creamy bite.

• Pickled jalapeños or olives can be swapped in for variety.

Tips

• Make a double batch—they disappear quickly at parties!

• If short on time, even 30 minutes of marinating will add flavor.

• Use a mix of cheeses for color and variety.

• Serve with crackers or toasted bread slices to make it more filling.

Servings

• Makes about 20–24 skewers (depending on size).

• Serves 6–8 people as an appetizer.

Nutritional Information (per serving – approx. 3 skewers)

• Calories: 210 kcal

• Protein: 10 g

• Fat: 18 g

• Carbohydrates: 2 g

• Fiber: 0.5 g

• Sodium: 420 mg

(Values will vary depending on cheese, salami, and pickles used.)

Health Benefits

• Cheese provides protein and calcium, supporting muscle and bone health.

• Olive oil is rich in heart-healthy monounsaturated fats.

• Pickles add probiotics (if naturally fermented) for gut health.

• Parsley & herbs add antioxidants and freshness.

Q & A

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes! Marinate the cheese up to 2 days in advance and assemble skewers the day of serving.

Q: What’s the best cheese for this appetizer?
A: Firm cheeses like cheddar, gouda, or Colby Jack hold up well in marinade.

Q: Can I make it vegetarian?
A: Absolutely! Just skip the salami and add extra pickles, olives, or roasted peppers.

Q: How long can leftovers last?
A: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Q: Can I serve without skewers?
A: Yes, simply arrange cheese, salami, and pickles on a platter with toothpicks on the side.