If you love crowd-pleasing snacks that look as good as they taste, you’re about to discover a new go-to favorite! The Easy Marinated Cheese Appetizer with Salami & Pickles brings together bold, savory flavors with vibrant colors and delightful textures in every bite. This make-ahead no-bake recipe keeps party hosting refreshingly stress-free — and it’s as comforting for a cozy family night as it is show-stopping for your next gathering. With tangy pickles, creamy cheeses, zesty salami, and a tangy punch from a simple homemade marinade, this appetizer will steal the show (and your guests’ hearts) in no time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the best parts of this Easy Marinated Cheese Appetizer with Salami & Pickles is that every ingredient is straightforward but crucial. From the creamy base of the cheeses to the just-right spice in the marinade, each item adds its own pop of flavor, color, or crunch that makes this dish shine.
- Cheddar cheese (8 ounces, cubed): A classic choice with sharpness and body, cheddar is the hearty foundation of this bite-sized snack.
- Mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese (8 ounces, cubed): The soft, mellow flavor and creamy texture complement the boldness of the cheddar.
- Hard salami (6 ounces, sliced and quartered): Salty, savory, and just the right bit chewy, salami brings a punch of flavor to every bite.
- Dill pickles (1/2 cup, sliced): Pickles cut through the richness with tang and crunch, brightening up the whole dish.
- Red onion (1/4 cup, thinly sliced): The subtle bite and crispness of red onion adds a layer of flavor that balances the marinade beautifully.
- Olive oil (1/3 cup): The backbone of the marinade for velvety richness and subtle fruity notes.
- Red wine vinegar (2 tablespoons): This adds a punch of acid, balancing the cheeses and pickles with just-right tanginess.
- Dijon mustard (1 tablespoon): Adds bold, zesty flavor and brings the marinade together.
- Italian seasoning (1 teaspoon): The dried herbs infuse the dish with savory depth.
- Crushed red pepper flakes (1/4 teaspoon, optional): For a hint of heat and excitement; adjust to your preferred spice level.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Season with a gentle hand — remember, the salami and pickles add saltiness too!
- Chopped fresh parsley (for garnish): An optional swirl of freshness that adds beautiful color and a gentle herby finish.
How to Make Easy Marinated Cheese Appetizer with Salami & Pickles
Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients
Start by cutting your cheddar and mozzarella or Monterey Jack into bite-sized cubes — try to keep them even for a pretty presentation. Quarter the sliced salami for easy spearing and snackability. Thinly slice your red onions and pickles so their flavors shine without overwhelming. Prepping everything in advance sets you up for smooth assembly!
Step 2: Combine Cheese, Salami, Pickles, and Onion
In a large bowl or shallow container, toss together all your ready-to-go cheddar cubes, mozzarella cubes, salami pieces, dill pickle slices, and sliced red onion. This combo becomes the heart of your Easy Marinated Cheese Appetizer with Salami & Pickles — an irresistible base that soaks up all the marinade flavors.
Step 3: Make the Marinade
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), plus a little salt and plenty of freshly cracked black pepper. Whisk until the mixture forms a cohesive, punchy vinaigrette that’s as flavorful as it is aromatic.
Step 4: Pour and Toss
Pour your zippy marinade over the cheese, salami, pickles, and onion. Gently toss to coat everything with flavor — don’t be afraid to use your hands or a flexible spatula to make sure every piece gets some attention. You want that marinade clinging to every nook and cranny!
Step 5: Marinate
Cover your bowl or container and pop it in the fridge. Let the Easy Marinated Cheese Appetizer with Salami & Pickles chill for at least 1 hour, but know that it only gets better if left overnight. Give it a gentle toss once or twice while it marinates to keep flavors distributed and vibrant.
Step 6: Bring to Room Temperature & Garnish
Before serving, let the appetizer sit out for 15 to 20 minutes so the flavors bloom and the olive oil loses its chill. This is the perfect moment to scatter on a generous flurry of chopped fresh parsley for color and aroma. The result is bright, fresh, and truly irresistible.
How to Serve Easy Marinated Cheese Appetizer with Salami & Pickles
Garnishes
Chopped fresh parsley is a must — it wakes up the whole platter with vibrant green and fresh aroma. If you want to go further, a sprinkle of cracked black pepper or a few extra pickle slices on top bring an extra touch of excitement and beauty to the serving dish.
Side Dishes
This appetizer really shines next to toasted breadsticks, crunchy crostini, or your favorite crackers. For a great grazing board, add marinated olives, roasted red peppers, or even crispy veggies. These simple sides let the flavors of the Easy Marinated Cheese Appetizer with Salami & Pickles pop and make every bite even more enjoyable.
Creative Ways to Present
For a playful party twist, thread cubes of cheese, salami, and pickles onto small skewers for grab-and-go bites. Or, arrange the cubes in neat rows or patterns on a platter for a modern look. Tiny mason jars or shot glasses filled with a mix of the marinated ingredients make for adorable, individualized servings that guests will love.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftover Easy Marinated Cheese Appetizer with Salami & Pickles, simply transfer everything (and as much marinade as possible) into an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to three days, giving a quick stir before serving again to redistribute the flavors.
Freezing
While freezing isn’t recommended for this dish (soft cheeses and pickles don’t love the freezer), you can safely store the cheese and salami mixture alone for up to one month, then add fresh pickles and marinade after thawing for best flavor and texture.
Reheating
This appetizer is best served cold or at room temperature, so reheating isn’t necessary. If it’s been chilling for a while, let it sit out just long enough for the olive oil to liquefy and the flavors to open up, then serve as usual.
FAQs
Can I use different types of cheese?
Absolutely! Play with flavors and textures by adding cubes of pepper jack, gouda, havarti, or even mini mozzarella balls. The versatility of the Easy Marinated Cheese Appetizer with Salami & Pickles is part of what makes it so fun.
What’s the best kind of salami to use?
A firm, Italian-style hard salami is perfect for this recipe, but feel free to experiment with soppressata, spicy Calabrese, or even a high-quality turkey salami for a lighter option.
Can I make this vegetarian?
Easily! Just leave out the salami and add extra cubes of cheese, olives, or even roasted red peppers for even more color and flavor.
How far ahead can I make this appetizer?
The Easy Marinated Cheese Appetizer with Salami & Pickles is at its best after several hours (or even a day) of marinating, so feel free to prepare it up to 24 hours ahead for events or gatherings.
What’s the nutritional info for this appetizer?
Each half-cup serving of the Easy Marinated Cheese Appetizer with Salami & Pickles clock in around 210 calories, with 10g of protein and just 2g carbohydrates, making it a great option for low-carb diets and gluten-free guests.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Marinated Cheese Appetizer with Salami & Pickles is guaranteed to win over your guests with its bold, zesty flavors and colorful charm. It’s simple, packed with flavor, and endlessly customizable — exactly the kind of dish to keep on repeat! Give it a try, and watch as everyone gathers around for “just one more” bite.
Print
Easy Marinated Cheese Appetizer with Salami & Pickles Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes (plus marinating)
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Easy Marinated Cheese Appetizer with Salami & Pickles is a flavorful and simple dish perfect for gatherings. The combination of cheeses, salami, pickles, and tangy marinade creates a delicious appetizer that can be prepared ahead of time.
Ingredients
Cheese Mixture:
- 8 ounces cheddar cheese, cubed
- 8 ounces mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese, cubed
Other Ingredients:
- 6 ounces hard salami, sliced into quarters
- 1/2 cup dill pickles, sliced
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/3 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Cheese Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the cubed cheeses, salami, pickles, and red onion.
- Make the Marinade: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.
- Marinate: Pour the marinade over the cheese mixture, toss gently to coat, cover, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
- Serve: Before serving, let the dish sit at room temperature for 15–20 minutes. Garnish with parsley and serve with toothpicks or crackers.
Notes
- You can use mini mozzarella balls (bocconcini) for a fun twist.
- This appetizer can be made a day ahead and tastes better as it marinates longer.
- Try adding olives or roasted red peppers for extra flavor.
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