This marinated cheese and salami dish brings bold flavor without any fuss. It’s the kind of appetizer you’d see on a cozy table in Spain or at a family get-together where everyone grabs the cheese first. With creamy cheese, salty salami, and herby oil, it’s simple but full of flavor.
Every bite is rich, a little salty, and totally satisfying—great with crackers or just straight from the fridge with a toothpick. And believe it or not, it tastes amazing alongside a Chocolate Peanut Butter Smoothie or even a Vegas Bomb Shot if you’re feeling fun.
All you need is a quick marinade—just garlic, herbs, and oil—and the flavors do the rest while you get other things ready. It’s an easy, crowd-pleasing appetizer with just the right touch of something special.
Perfect For Turning the Table Into the Party!
- I served this at a backyard bonfire with old friends—it vanished before the marshmallows even hit the flame, and now it’s a standing request.
- It’s my secret weapon when hosting cocktail-style dinners; guests always assume it came from a gourmet shop, not my kitchen.
- I’ve played around with different cheeses and salamis—goat cheese adds tang, while soppressata brings serious depth—this dish welcomes experimentation.
- It’s surprisingly balanced with bold drinks; the richness holds its own next to boozy favorites like shots or creamy smoothies.
- When I’m trying to avoid heavy apps, this keeps things flavorful but light, and every time, someone asks for the marinade recipe.
Marinated Cheese Appetizer With Salami Recipe
Equipment
- Measuring spoons
- Measuring cup
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Large jar or container with lid
- Serving platter or toothpicks
Ingredients
- 2 cups semi-firm cheese cubes
- 1 cup thick-sliced salami rounds
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp white wine vinegar or apple vinegar
- ⅓ cup olive oil
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley or dill
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- ½ cup diced red, yellow, or orange bell peppers
- 1 cup mini pickles
Instructions
- Cut the cheese into bite-sized cubes and chop the bell peppers into small pieces; if your pickles are large, slice them in halves or quarters.
- In a clean jar or large container, begin layering the cheese, salami, pickles, and bell peppers—repeat until all ingredients are used for even flavor distribution.
- In a clean jar or large container, begin layering the cheese, salami, pickles, and bell peppers—repeat until all ingredients are used for even flavor distribution.
- In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, vinegar, minced garlic, black pepper, and red pepper flakes until well combined.
- Stir in your choice of freshly chopped herbs into the marinade.
- Pour the marinade evenly over the layered ingredients in the jar, gently pressing down with a spoon or spatula to ensure full coverage.
- Seal the jar tightly and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
- Before serving, gently shake or stir, then serve from the jar with toothpicks or spoon onto a serving platter.
Notes
- Use a mix of cheeses like cheddar, mozzarella, or pepper jack for a variety of flavors and textures.
- Try adding artichoke hearts or olives for an extra Mediterranean twist.
| Calories | 230kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 2g |
| Fiber | 0.5g |
| Fat | 20g |
| Protein | 9g |
| Cholesterol | 30g |
