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Easy Make-Ahead Marinated Cheese Appetizer

Close-up of cubed cheese soaking in bright yellow oil with herbs and red pepper flakes for a marinated cheese appetizer.
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Turn simple cheese cubes into a flavorful party favorite by marinating them in olive oil, garlic, and fresh herbs. This is a simple, make-ahead appetizer perfect for entertaining crowds.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese, cubed
  • 8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, cubed
  • 8 ounces mozzarella cheese, cubed
  • 1 cup olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon dried Italian seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. Cut the cream cheese, cheddar cheese, and mozzarella cheese into uniform 1/2-inch cubes. Place all cheese cubes into a medium, non-reactive container with a tight-fitting lid.
  2. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, oregano, red pepper flakes, and black pepper.
  3. Pour the marinade mixture over the cheese cubes, ensuring all pieces are submerged. Gently stir to coat.
  4. Cover the container and refrigerate for at least 24 hours, or up to 3 days, to allow the cheese to absorb the flavors.
  5. Before serving, stir in the fresh chopped parsley.
  6. Serve the marinated cheese cubes directly from the container or arrange them on a platter with toothpicks.

Notes

  • For best results, use good quality olive oil as it carries much of the flavor.
  • Serve this appetizer with crackers, baguette slices, or pita chips.
  • You can add sliced cured meats like salami or small pickled items like cornichons to the marinade for variation.
  • This recipe is an excellent make ahead party food option, as the flavor improves overnight.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookingbyfelix.com/marinated-cheese-appetizer/