Marinated Cheese Appetizer with Salami & Pickles

Ingredients

Yield: About 8–10 appetizer servings.

• 8 oz (225 g) cheddar, Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, or mozzarella cheese, cut into cubes
• ½ cup sliced salami, cut into bite-size pieces
• ½ cup dill pickles, cornichons, or gherkins, sliced

For the marinade

• ¼ cup olive oil
• 2 tbsp red wine vinegar (or white wine vinegar)
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional, for extra flavor)
• Salt and black pepper, to tast

Instructions

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, vinegar, garlic, Italian seasoning, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
2. Place the cheese cubes, salami, and pickle slices in a large bowl or shallow dish.
3. Pour the marinade over the mixture and gently toss until everything is evenly coated.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, preferably 1–4 hours. For deeper flavor, marinate overnight.
5. Stir once before serving and transfer to a serving platter. Serve with toothpicks, crackers, toasted baguette slices, or crostini.
6. Keep refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days. The flavor improves after a few hours of marinating.