Go Back
–+ servings
marinated cheese A close-up of the marinated cheese casserole dish, showcasing the layered cheese, red peppers, and a blend of fresh herbs soaked in olive oil and spices, ready for marination.

Marinated Cheese

This flavorful Marinated Cheese appetizer combines herbs, cheese, and roasted red peppers, making it a perfect addition to any holiday gathering.
5 from 1 vote
Print Pin
Course: Appetizer
Cuisine: American
Keyword: cheese appetizer, easy appetizers, holiday appetizers, marinated cheese
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Marinate Time: 6 hours
Total Time: 6 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 24
Calories: 134kcal
Cost: $10

Ingredients

  • 1 lemon juiced and zested
  • ½ cup olive oil extra virgin for best flavor
  • 2 tablespoon red wine vinegar for acidity
  • 2 teaspoon Dijon mustard adds a tangy kick
  • 3 garlic cloves minced, about ½ tablespoon total
  • ½ tablespoon fresh rosemary stems removed, or dry rosemary
  • 2 tablespoon fresh parsley chopped
  • ½ teaspoon salt to taste
  • ¼ teaspoon chili flakes optional, for a touch of heat
  • 1 teaspoon granulated sugar balances acidity
  • 8 oz extra sharp cheddar block, sliced into ¼ inch pieces
  • 8 oz pepperjack cheese block, sliced into ¼ inch pieces
  • 4 oz cream cheese chilled or slightly frozen, sliced
  • 6 oz roasted red peppers drained, chopped

Instructions

  • Zest and juice the lemon.
  • Combine the olive oil, lemon juice and zest, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, rosemary, parsley, salt, chili flakes, and granulated sugar in a bowl.
    "A bowl filled with olive oil, garlic, herbs, and spices, creating a fragrant marinade that will be poured over the cheese for marination.
  • Slice the cheddar, pepperjack, and cream cheeses into ¼-inch slices.
    "A wooden cutting board with different varieties of cheese, sliced into strips and cubes, ready to be layered in a casserole dish for marination.
  • Chop the roasted red peppers into bite-sized pieces.
  • Arrange the sliced cheeses in an 8x8 baking pan or casserole dish in a single layer.
  • Top the cheese slices with the chopped roasted red peppers.
  • Pour the prepared marinade over the cheese and peppers, ensuring they are fully covered.
    "A hand is pouring a vibrant olive oil and herb marinade over layers of cheese, red peppers, and fresh herbs, preparing the dish for marination.
  • Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 6 hours, or up to 24 hours for best flavor.
    A square casserole dish filled with marinated cheese and herbs, sealed with plastic wrap to allow the flavors to infuse. The dish features layers of cheese, red peppers, and green herbs soaked in olive oil.
  • Remove the plastic wrap before serving. Serve with cheese forks or a butter knife for easy serving.

Notes

This marinated cheese appetizer is best enjoyed after at least 6 hours of marinating, but it can be made a day in advance for convenience. The marinade doubles as a delightful salad dressing, adding extra flavor to any dish!

Nutrition

Serving: 1Serving | Calories: 134kcal (7%) | Carbohydrates: 1g | Protein: 5g (10%) | Fat: 12g (18%) | Saturated Fat: 7g (44%) | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 3g | Cholesterol: 30mg (10%) | Sodium: 284mg (12%) | Potassium: 37mg (1%) | Fiber: 0.1g | Sugar: 1g (1%) | Vitamin A: 10IU | Vitamin C: 10mg (12%) | Calcium: 12mg (1%) | Iron: 4mg (22%)
Tried this recipe?Pin it on @Pinterest