Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I stood in my kitchen surrounded by the delightful aromas of marinated cheese, salami, and green olives, a sense of joy washed over me. This Zesty Marinated Cheese Appetizer with Salami & Green Olives is the perfect solution for anyone looking to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen. Not only is it a beginner-friendly dish that takes just 20 minutes to prep, but it also allows for endless customization—focus on your favorite ingredients or make it vegetarian. With rich and creamy mozzarella, tangy feta, and that savory kick from salami, every bite brings a burst of Mediterranean flair that everyone will love. Whether you’re hosting a casual gathering or a festive celebration, this appetizer will elevate your entertaining game to new heights. Ready to dive into this deliciously simple recipe that’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser? Why Make Marinated Cheese Appetizer? Beginner-Friendly Ease: You’ll find this recipe simple enough for everyone, ensuring a delightful outcome with minimal fuss. Flavor Explosion: The harmonious combination of creamy mozzarella, tangy feta, and savory salami creates a taste experience that your guests will rave about. Customizable Delights: Feel free to swap in your favorite cheeses or omit salami for a vegetarian twist—versatility is the name of the game! Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual get-together or an elegant dinner party, this appetizer is sure to wow your guests and elevate your spread. Quick Preparation: With just 20 minutes of hands-on time, you can easily create this impressive dish, allowing you to enjoy your gathering stress-free. Pair it with some artisan crackers or fresh vegetable sticks for an eye-catching presentation that maximizes both flavor and enjoyment! Marinated Cheese Appetizer Ingredients • Dive into the delightful world of flavors with these simple yet essential components. For the Cheese Mozzarella Cheese (8 ounces) – Creamy base that absorbs the marinade’s flavors; can substitute with burrata or gouda for a different texture. Feta Cheese (8 ounces) – Tangy and crumbly, brightens the dish; substitute with goat cheese for a varied flavor profile. For the Salami & Olives Salami (4 ounces) – Cured meat providing savory depth; can be replaced with prosciutto or omitted for a vegetarian version. Green Olives (1 cup, pitted and halved) – Adds briny flavor and crunch; substitute with black olives or sliced pickles for a twist. For the Marinade Extra Virgin Olive Oil (1 cup) – Main marinade component providing richness; no substitution recommended for optimal flavor. Garlic (4 cloves, minced) – Enhances aroma and flavor depth; use garlic powder in a pinch if needed. Dried Oregano (1 tablespoon) – Adds an herbal quality; can use fresh oregano (3 tablespoons) for a fresher taste. Red Pepper Flakes (1 tablespoon, optional) – Provides a kick of heat; omit for those preferring a milder flavor. Lemon Zest (from 1 lemon) – Brightens flavors with citrus notes; substitute with lime zest for a different zest. Lemon Juice (from 1 lemon) – Adds acidity to balance richness; can substitute with vinegar if needed. For the Garnish Fresh Parsley (for garnish, chopped) – Adds color and herbaceous freshness; no substitute necessary. With these Marinated Cheese Appetizer with Salami & Green Olives ingredients, you’re on your way to crafting a dish that’s sure to impress your guests! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Marinated Cheese Appetizer with Salami & Green Olives Step 1: Prepare the Cheese Begin by cutting your mozzarella and feta cheese into uniform cubes, roughly 1-inch in size. This ensures that each bite is perfectly balanced. Place the cheese cubes in a large mixing bowl where they can mingle later with the salami and olives. The direct preparation will only take about 5 minutes! Step 2: Mix the Cheese with Salami and Olives Next, slice the salami into thin strips and halve each green olive. Add the salami and olives to the bowl with your cheese. Gently toss the mixture using a spatula or your hands, making sure each piece is well combined without breaking the cheese. This step should take no more than 3 minutes. Step 3: Whisk the Marinade In a separate bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, minced garlic, dried oregano, red pepper flakes, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Aim for a smooth and well-blended marinade, which should take about 2 minutes. The fragrant mix will infuse your Marinated Cheese Appetizer with Salami & Green Olives with rich flavors. Step 4: Combine Marinade with Cheese Mixture Drizzle the prepared marinade over the cheese, salami, and olives in the mixing bowl, ensuring an even coating. Stir gently but thoroughly to combine, allowing the marinade to soak into every ingredient. This process takes about 2 minutes, and you’ll notice the vibrant colors combine beautifully. Step 5: Cover and Refrigerate Once everything is mixed, cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the mixture to a glass jar with a lid. Refrigerate your creation for at least 2 hours, but if you have the time, let it marinate overnight for even deeper flavors. This wait allows the ingredients to meld into a delightful appetizer. Step 6: Serve the Appetizer When it’s time to serve your Marinated Cheese Appetizer with Salami & Green Olives, use a slotted spoon to transfer the mixture onto a platter. This method prevents excess oil from dripping, keeping your appetizer looking and tasting fresh. Arrange it artfully, inviting your guests to dig in. Step 7: Garnish and Present Finally, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over your dish for a pop of color and a touch of freshness. Serve the appetizer with toothpicks, artisan crackers, or slices of crusty bread to enhance the experience. Take pride in your creation as you share it with friends and family! What to Serve with Marinated Cheese Appetizer with Salami & Green Olives Elevate your gathering by complementing this flavorful appetizer with equally delightful dishes that will warm everyone’s hearts. Artisan Crackers: These crunchy treats provide the perfect vessel for the marinated cheese, absorbing flavors without overshadowing them. Their variety and texture make every bite exciting. Sliced Baguette: The rustic appeal of fresh baguette slices offers a chewy contrast, enhancing the experience as guests pile on the marinated cheese and salami. Fresh Vegetable Sticks: Carrots, cucumbers, and bell peppers lend a crisp bite, cleansing the palate while adding refreshing notes to the rich flavors of the appetizer. Chilled White Wine: A light, zesty Sauvignon Blanc enhances the vibrant notes of the cheese and olives, making for a refreshing sip alongside each savory bite. Tomato Bruschetta: This colorful, herb-infused topping brings a juicy, tangy flair that meshes beautifully with the rich marinade, adding a burst of freshness to your appetizer selection. Mixed Greens Salad: Tossed with a light vinaigrette, the salad’s greens provide a refreshing backdrop, balancing the creaminess of the cheese with taste and texture. Olive Tapenade Crostini: A spread of this flavorful tapenade marries well with your appetizer, enhancing the Mediterranean experience with its briny and savory notes. Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries: For a sweet finale, these berries offer a delightful contrast to the savory cheese, creating a perfect ending to your appetizer spread. Each option amplifies the marinated cheese appetizer, creating an enticing feast that promises smiles all around. Marinated Cheese Appetizer Customizations Feel free to get creative with your marinated cheese appetizer, tailoring it to suit your taste and preferences! Gouda Alternative: Swap mozzarella for gouda for a richer, smokier flavor that will tantalize your taste buds. The creamy texture will still hold up beautifully in the marinade. Vegetarian Delight: Skip the salami altogether or use marinated artichoke hearts for a punchy, vegetarian option bursting with flavor! Cheddar Kick: Try using sharp cheddar cheese instead of feta for a bold twist that adds a delightful bite to every mouthful. Olive Twist: Experiment with kalamata olives instead of green ones for a deeper, fruitier taste. Each piece offers a different kind of Mediterranean flair! Herbal Boost: Toss in some fresh basil or thyme for an added layer of freshness and aroma that enhances the overall experience. Spice it Up: Intensify the dish by incorporating diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a delightful kick that’ll wake up your palate! Crunchy Add-Ins: Include cherry tomatoes or bell pepper strips for an extra crunch and splash of color—perfect for brightening up your platter. Creamy Goat Cheese: Substitute your feta with creamy goat cheese for a tangy twist that elevates the dish even more. The goat cheese will bring a luscious texture that pairs perfectly with olives. For an added layer of enjoyment, pair your creations with some artisan crackers or offer it alongside a refreshing Dynamite Shrimp Appetizer for a fabulous spread everyone can relish! Make Ahead Options These Marinated Cheese Appetizers with Salami & Green Olives are absolutely perfect for meal prep, saving you time on busy entertaining days! You can mix all the ingredients and refrigerate them for up to 3 days in advance, allowing the flavors to infuse beautifully. To prepare ahead, combine the cubed mozzarella, feta, salami, green olives, and the marinade in a bowl, cover tightly, and store in the refrigerator. This way, when it’s time to serve, all you have to do is gently stir the mixture, use a slotted spoon to transfer it to a platter, and garnish with fresh parsley. Your appetizer will taste just as delicious and vibrant as if made fresh that day! How to Store and Freeze Marinated Cheese Appetizer Room Temperature: Keep this appetizer out for no more than 2 hours during gatherings to ensure food safety and freshness. Fridge: Store leftovers in the marinade in a sealed glass container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This helps maintain flavor depth in your marinated cheese appetizer. Freezer: It’s best not to freeze this dish, as the texture of the cheese may change. Enjoy it fresh for the best experience! Reheating: No need to reheat; this appetizer is best served cold, straight from the fridge, allowing its vibrant flavors to shine. Expert Tips for Marinated Cheese Appetizer Overnight Magic: Allow your Marinated Cheese Appetizer with Salami & Green Olives to marinate overnight for the best flavor infusion. It really enhances the taste! Save the Olive Oil: Use a slotted spoon when serving to drain excess oil. This keeps the dish from becoming soggy and maintains a fresh appearance. Balanced Flavors: Adjust the quantity of garlic and red pepper flakes according to your taste preference. Start with less and add more if desired to prevent overwhelming the dish. Customizable Ingredients: Experiment with different cheese types or herbs based on what’s available in your pantry. This dish is perfect for your creativity! Stir Gently: When combining the ingredients, use gentle motions to avoid breaking the delicate cheese cubes. This keeps your Marinated Cheese Appetizer looking beautiful! Marinated Cheese Appetizer with Salami & Green Olives Recipe FAQs What type of cheese should I use for the best flavor? Absolutely! For the best flavor, I recommend using fresh mozzarella and tangy feta. These cheeses absorb the marinade beautifully. If you’d like a different texture, feel free to substitute mozzarella with burrata or gouda. How long can I store leftovers of the marinated cheese? You can store your Marinated Cheese Appetizer with Salami & Green Olives in a sealed glass container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keeping it in the marinade helps retain the flavors, making each day just as tasty as the first! Can I freeze the marinated cheese and salami? While it’s tempting to freeze it, I suggest that this appetizer is best enjoyed fresh. Freezing can alter the texture of the cheese, making it less enjoyable. If you must freeze, separate the components and freeze the salted salami, as it freezes well for up to 3 months, but I recommend consuming fresh for the best experience. What should I do if the salami makes the dish too salty? Very! If you find the salami makes the dish too salty for your liking, you can easily balance it out by adding more cheese or olives. Consider introducing additional herbs or even a small splash of vinegar to help counteract the saltiness. Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of? Of course! If you’re catering to vegetarians, simply omit the salami for a completely vegetarian-friendly appetizer. Additionally, keep in mind any allergies your guests may have, such as dairy, olives, or gluten if serving with crackers. You can replace salami with other meats like prosciutto if desired. What’s the ideal marination time for flavors to meld? For the richest flavor, I recommend marinating the cheese, salami, and olives for at least 2 hours, but if you can let it sit overnight, do so! This allows all the ingredients to meld together deliciously, enhancing the taste of your Marinated Cheese Appetizer wonderfully! Marinated Cheese Appetizer with Salami & Green Olives Bliss This Marinated Cheese Appetizer with Salami & Green Olives is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for gatherings and customizable for all tastes. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 20 minutes minsMarinating Time 2 hours hrsTotal Time 2 hours hrs 20 minutes mins Servings: 8 servingsCourse: AppetizersCuisine: MediterraneanCalories: 250 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Cheese8 ounces Mozzarella Cheese Can substitute with burrata or gouda.8 ounces Feta Cheese Substitute with goat cheese.For the Salami & Olives4 ounces Salami Can replace with prosciutto or omit.1 cup Green Olives Pitted and halved; substitute with black olives.For the Marinade1 cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil No substitution recommended.4 cloves Garlic Minced; use garlic powder if needed.1 tablespoon Dried Oregano Can use 3 tablespoons fresh oregano.1 tablespoon Red Pepper Flakes Optional; omit for a milder flavor.1 lemon Lemon Zest Substitute with lime zest.1 lemon Lemon Juice Can substitute with vinegar.For the GarnishFresh Parsley Chopped; no substitute necessary. Equipment Large mixing bowlWhiskspatulaPlastic wrapslotted spoon Method Step-by-Step InstructionsBegin by cutting your mozzarella and feta cheese into uniform cubes, roughly 1-inch in size.Next, slice the salami into thin strips and halve each green olive. Add them to the mixing bowl.In a separate bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, minced garlic, dried oregano, red pepper flakes, lemon zest, and lemon juice.Drizzle the prepared marinade over the cheese, salami, and olives, ensuring an even coating.Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.When ready to serve, use a slotted spoon to transfer the mixture onto a platter.Finally, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over your dish for garnish. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 4gProtein: 6gFat: 22gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 14gCholesterol: 20mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 200mgSugar: 1gVitamin A: 200IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 1mg NotesFor the best flavor, allow the appetizer to marinate overnight. Use a slotted spoon to serve and keep it fresh. Customize ingredients as desired. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
