This Marinated Cheese Plate is a perfect blend of flavorful cheeses, herbs, and seasonings, making it a standout appetizer for any occasion.

Introduction:

Looking for an appetizer that will impress your guests with minimal effort? A Marinated Cheese Plate is a flavorful and elegant solution. This dish takes basic cheese cubes and elevates them with a blend of olive oil, herbs, and spices that infuse each bite with richness and complexity. The beauty of this recipe is its versatility—you can customize it with your favorite cheeses, herbs, and even add-ins like olives or roasted red peppers. The result is a dish that’s perfect for serving at gatherings, dinner parties, or holiday events. Not only does it look stunning on the table, but the marinated cheese develops deeper flavors the longer it sits, making it a make-ahead dream appetizer. Serve it with crusty bread, crackers, or fresh veggies for a complete and satisfying starter.

Ingredients:

• 8 oz sharp cheddar cheese, cut into cubes
• 8 oz Monterey Jack cheese, cut into cubes
• 8 oz mozzarella, cut into cubes or small balls
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• Fresh rosemary or thyme sprigs (for garnish)
• Sliced olives, roasted red peppers, or sun-dried tomatoes (optional)

Directions:

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

1. Mix the Marinade: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, dried basil, oregano, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), and black pepper.
2. Taste and Adjust: Taste the marinade and adjust seasonings as needed, adding more vinegar for tang or more olive oil for richness.

Step 2: Marinate the Cheese

1. Prepare the Cheese: Place the cheddar, Monterey Jack, and mozzarella cubes into a large shallow dish or bowl. If you’re adding olives, roasted red peppers, or sun-dried tomatoes, include them at this stage.
2. Pour the Marinade: Pour the prepared marinade over the cheese, ensuring all pieces are coated evenly. Gently toss the cheese cubes to coat them completely.
3. Marinate: Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for the best flavor infusion. Occasionally toss or stir the cheese to redistribute the marinade.

Step 3: Serve the Cheese Plate

1. Arrange on a Plate: After marinating, transfer the cheese cubes to a serving platter. Garnish with fresh rosemary or thyme sprigs for a decorative touch.
2. Serve with Accompaniments: Serve the marinated cheese alongside sliced baguette, crackers, or fresh vegetables like cucumber and cherry tomatoes.

How to Prepare:

• Storage: Store any leftover marinated cheese in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
• Serving Suggestion: Allow the cheese to sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before serving, as this helps the flavors to fully develop.

Preparation Time:

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Marinating Time: 2-8 hours
• Total Time: 15 minutes + marinating time

Servings:

• Yields: 8-10 servings

FAQs:

1. Can I use other types of cheese?

• Absolutely! You can experiment with cheeses like Gouda, Havarti, or even a creamy goat cheese. Just be sure to pick varieties that will hold their shape during marination.

2. How long should I marinate the cheese?

• For the best flavor, marinate the cheese for at least 2 hours, though overnight marination is ideal for maximum flavor absorption.

3. What other add-ins work well with this dish?

• You can include olives, roasted red peppers, artichoke hearts, or even nuts like almonds or walnuts for added texture and flavor.

4. Can I make this ahead of time?

• Yes! This recipe is ideal for preparing ahead of time. Marinate the cheese up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.

5. What can I serve with a marinated cheese plate?

• Crusty bread, crackers, fresh vegetables, and charcuterie like salami or prosciutto are perfect pairings for a marinated cheese plate.

Conclusion:

A Marinated Cheese Plate is a simple yet sophisticated appetizer that adds elegance to any event. With minimal prep time and the ability to make it ahead, this dish is a stress-free option for hosting. The flavors of olive oil, herbs, and spices infuse the cheese, creating a delicious, savory bite with every taste. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or looking for a unique addition to a charcuterie board, this marinated cheese plate is sure to be a hit with guests. Pair it with your favorite accompaniments for an appetizer that’s as versatile as it is flavorful!