Easy Marinated Cheese Appetizer with Herb Vinaigrette
Make this simple, make-ahead marinated cheese appetizer using cream cheese and cheddar soaked in a flavorful herb and oil marinade. It is a perfect finger food for parties and entertaining.
- Prep Time: 15 min
- Cook Time: 0 min
- Total Time: 8 hr 15 min
- Yield: 10 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Marinating
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 (8 ounce) block cream cheese, softened
- 1 (8 ounce) block sharp cheddar cheese, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup white wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
- Combine the softened cream cheese and cheddar cubes in a shallow, non-reactive dish or container.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, white wine vinegar, oregano, basil, garlic powder, pepper, and salt to create the marinade.
- Pour the marinade evenly over the cheese in the dish, ensuring all pieces are coated.
- Cover the dish tightly with a lid or plastic wrap.
- Refrigerate for at least 8 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the cheese to absorb the marinade flavors. This is your make-ahead step.
- Before serving, sprinkle with fresh parsley if desired.
- Serve cold or at room temperature with crackers, pita chips, or crusty bread.
Notes
- For a different flavor profile, substitute some of the olive oil with avocado oil.
- You can use other cheese varieties like Monterey Jack or Havarti in place of cheddar.
- This appetizer is excellent for potlucks and game day gatherings.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (approx. 2 oz cheese)
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 1
- Sodium: 250
- Fat: 20
- Saturated Fat: 8
- Unsaturated Fat: 12
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 2
- Fiber: 0
- Protein: 8
- Cholesterol: 30
Find it online: https://miameal.com/easy-marinated-cheese-appetizer-recipe/