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Marinated Cheese

Marinated Cheese: A Flavor-Packed Party Delight

Marinated Cheese is a zesty and irresistible appetizer perfect for any gathering, packed with flavor and easily customizable.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Marinating Time 8 hours
Total Time 8 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 10 servings
Course: Appetizers
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Cheese
  • 1 block Sharp Cheddar Cheese Provides a bold flavor; substitute with pepper jack for a spicy kick.
  • 8 oz Cream Cheese Adds a creamy texture; for a sophisticated taste, use goat cheese instead.
For the Marinade
  • 0.5 cup Olive Oil Acts as the base of the marinade; avocado oil can be a great alternative.
  • 0.25 cup White Wine Vinegar Offers acidity to balance flavors; replace with lemon juice for a milder note.
  • 0.25 cup Fresh Parsley Adds freshness and aroma; feel free to substitute with cilantro if desired.
  • 0.25 cup Fresh Basil Enhances flavor complexity; omit if you can't get it fresh.
  • 2 pieces Minced Green Onions Contributes flavor and texture; shallots work well as a substitute.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Introduces savory depth; garlic powder serves as a quick alternative if fresh isn’t on hand.
  • 0.5 cup Diced Pimentos Provides sweetness and vibrant color; can be optional for visual appeal.
  • 1 tbsp Granulated Sugar Balances out acidity; for a sharper taste, you can reduce or omit this.
  • 1 tsp Kosher Salt Enhances overall flavor; use table salt in smaller quantities if needed.
  • Freshly Ground Pepper Adds seasoning; pre-ground pepper is a convenient alternative.
Optional for Serving
  • Crackers or Sliced Baguette Perfect accompaniments for serving; choose assorted varieties to please every palate.
  • Fresh Vegetables A light, crunchy option that pairs beautifully with the marinated flavors.

Equipment

  • jar or bowl
  • Sharp knife
  • shallow baking dish

Method
 

Preparation Steps
  1. In a medium-sized jar or bowl, combine olive oil, white wine vinegar, chopped fresh parsley, chopped fresh basil, minced green onions, minced garlic, diced pimentos, granulated sugar, kosher salt, and freshly ground pepper to taste. Shake or whisk vigorously for about 1 minute until well mixed, creating a zesty marinade for your marinated cheese.
  2. Chill the sharp cheddar and cream cheese in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before slicing; this helps achieve clean cuts. Slice the sharp cheddar and cream cheese into 0.25-inch thick pieces.
  3. In a shallow baking dish, layer the cheese slices alternately, standing them on their ends for a beautiful display.
  4. Pour the prepared marinade evenly over the layered cheese slices, ensuring every piece is coated. Cover the dish tightly and refrigerate for at least 8 hours, or ideally overnight.
  5. Once marinated, remove the dish from the refrigerator and transfer the marinated cheese onto a decorative serving platter, spooning some of the marinade over the top. Serve alongside assorted crackers, sliced baguette, or fresh vegetables.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 3gProtein: 8gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 40mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 100mgSugar: 1gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 0.5mg

Notes

Chill for neat slices and avoid freezing as it alters texture and consistency. Customize as you like and refresh leftovers if needed.

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