Description

This Easy Marinated Cheese Appetizer with Salami & Pickles is a flavorful, no-cook party starter perfect for quick entertaining. Cubes of cheddar, mozzarella, or Colby Jack cheese mingle with folded salami slices and mini dill pickles in a tangy, savory marinade of olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic, and herbs. After marinating for at least an hour, the appetizer is ready to serve as a delicious low-carb, keto-friendly snack that offers a great balance of creamy, salty, and tangy flavors.

Ingredients

Scale

Cheese & Meats

8 ounces cheese cubes (cheddar, mozzarella, or Colby Jack)
4 ounces sliced salami (folded or rolled)

Pickles

½ cup mini dill pickles or cornichons

Marinade

¼ cup olive oil
2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 garlic clove (minced)
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
½ teaspoon black pepper

Garnish

1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)

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Instructions

Prepare the Marinade: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), and black pepper until all ingredients are well combined and emulsified.
Combine Ingredients: In a mixing bowl or shallow dish, add the cheese cubes, folded or rolled salami slices, and mini dill pickles. Pour the prepared marinade evenly over the mixture.
Toss to Coat: Gently toss the cheese, salami, and pickles with the marinade to ensure everything is evenly coated without breaking the cheese cubes or tearing the salami slices.
Marinate: Cover the bowl or dish with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. For a more intense flavor, marinate up to 24 hours.
Serve: Before serving, give everything a light toss to redistribute the marinade. Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley if desired. Serve with toothpicks or arrange on a platter as a simple, flavorful appetizer.

Notes

Use a variety of cheeses for more flavor and texture contrasts.
Add olives or roasted red peppers to the mix for additional variety and color.
Serve alongside crackers or crusty bread to complement the flavors and provide a satisfying crunch.