Description
Marinated Cheese is a quick and easy appetizer that combines creamy cheese with vibrant herbs, spices, and oils to create a flavorful, customizable snack perfect for sharing or enjoying anytime. This recipe transforms simple cheese into a gourmet treat bursting with bold and fresh flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
Cheese
- 200g feta, mozzarella balls, or halloumi (bite-sized cubes or small balls)
Marinade
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest or 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons fresh herbs (basil, oregano, thyme, or rosemary), finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon whole peppercorns or cracked black pepper
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare the Cheese – Cut your chosen cheese into bite-sized cubes or use small cheese balls. This ensures they absorb marinade evenly and are easy to pick up later.
- Step 2: Mix the Marinade – In a bowl, whisk together extra virgin olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest or juice, crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and freshly chopped herbs. This mixture builds the flavorful base for the cheese.
- Step 3: Combine and Marinate – Gently toss the cheese pieces in the marinade until coated evenly. Transfer to a clean jar or airtight container and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to a few hours to allow flavors to meld.
- Step 4: Serve and Enjoy – Bring marinated cheese to room temperature before serving to maximize flavor and aroma. Drizzle additional marinade on top for an attractive presentation.
Notes
- Use fresh herbs for brighter flavor and better aroma.
- Do not marinate for more than 24 hours to avoid overpowering or changing the texture of the cheese.
- Try mixing different types of cheese for added complexity.
- Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for a rich and smooth taste.
- Adjust salt cautiously, as some cheeses are naturally salty.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: No-cook
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 50g
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Sugar: 0.5 g
- Sodium: 300 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 1 g
- Fiber: 0.2 g
- Protein: 5 g
- Cholesterol: 20 mg
Keywords: marinated cheese, appetizer, snack, feta, mozzarella, halloumi, herbs, olive oil, quick recipe, easy appetizer