Description
This Easy Marinated Cheese Appetizer with Salami & Pickles is a flavorful and quick-to-prepare dish perfect for gatherings or casual snacking. Cubes of Havarti cheese are combined with savory salami, tangy cornichons, Castelvetrano olives, and oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes, all marinated in a vibrant garlic vinaigrette. The mixture benefits from a refreshing infusion of fresh basil and requires only minimal preparation and refrigeration time to develop its rich flavors. Serve chilled alongside crackers, bread, or as part of a charcuterie board for an impressive and tasty appetizer.
Ingredients
Scale
Cheese and Meats
- 6 oz Havarti cheese, diced
- 1 cup salami, cubed
Vegetables and Pickles
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes (oil-packed)
- ½ cup cornichons (small pickles)
- ½ cup Castelvetrano olives
- 2 tbsp fresh basil, chopped
Marinade
- 1 cup garlic vinaigrette (or Italian-style vinaigrette)
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the diced Havarti cheese, cubed salami, sun-dried tomatoes, cornichons, Castelvetrano olives, and chopped fresh basil. Gently toss these ingredients together to distribute evenly.
- Add Vinaigrette: Pour the garlic vinaigrette over the combined ingredients. Use a gentle folding motion to mix, ensuring every piece is lightly coated with the flavorful dressing without breaking the delicate cheese.
- Marinate: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator. Allow the mixture to marinate for at least 1 to 2 hours to develop the flavors. For best results, refrigerate overnight to let the ingredients fully absorb the vinaigrette.
- Serve: After marinating, give the mixture a gentle stir. Serve chilled as an appetizer alongside crackers, slices of bread, or arranged on a charcuterie board to impress your guests with minimal effort.
Notes
- Marinating overnight enhances the flavor, but if short on time, 1-2 hours will still provide a tasty appetizer.
- Castelvetrano olives provide a mild, buttery flavor; you can substitute with Kalamata olives if unavailable, but expect a different taste profile.
- Use a quality garlic vinaigrette or make your own with olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and herbs for freshness.
- Keep the cheese cubes relatively uniform to ensure even marination.
- This appetizer can be prepared up to 24 hours in advance and kept refrigerated.
