Description
Savory marinated cheddar cheese brings Mediterranean sunshine to your appetizer spread, infusing sharp dairy with herbal complexity. Bold flavors and simple ingredients create a luxurious small plate that invites you to explore delightful culinary possibilities.
Ingredients
Scale
Cheese:
- 1 (8 ounces/226 grams) block sharp cheddar cheese, cut into ¼-inch slices
- 1 (8 ounces/226 grams) block cream cheese, cut into ¼-inch slices
Marinade Ingredients:
- ½ cup (120 milliliters) olive oil
- ½ cup (120 milliliters) white wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- ¾ teaspoon salt
- ¾ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Herbs and Garnish:
- 1 (2 ounces/57 grams) jar diced pimentos, drained
- 3 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 3 tablespoons chopped green onions
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Instructions
- Create an artistic cheese canvas by layering cheddar and cream cheese slices vertically in a shallow serving dish, ensuring each slice stands elegantly on its edge.
- Craft a vibrant marinade by whisking together fragrant olive oil, tangy vinegar, bright red pimentos, fresh parsley, zesty green onions, subtle sugar, delicate salt, cracked pepper, and aromatic garlic in a mixing bowl.
- Generously drizzle the prepared marinade across the cheese slices, ensuring every layer receives an even coating of the flavorful mixture.
- Seal the dish with a tight-fitting lid or protective wrap, then nestle it in the refrigerator for a minimum of 8 hours, allowing the flavors to meld and intensify overnight.
- Prior to serving, remove the marinated cheese from the refrigerator and let it rest at ambient temperature for approximately 15-20 minutes, which will soften the texture and enhance the complex flavor profile.
- Present the marinated cheese alongside crisp crackers or golden toasted bread, inviting guests to savor the harmonious blend of textures and tastes.
Notes
- Cheese Selection Matters: Pick a high-quality sharp cheddar and creamy cream cheese for maximum flavor depth and smooth texture.
- Marinating Magic: Let the cheese absorb marinade fully by ensuring all slices are evenly coated, allowing herbs and spices to penetrate deeply.
- Temperature Technique: Bringing cheese to room temperature before serving releases essential oils and enhances the complex flavor profile.
- Dietary Flexibility: Swap regular cheese for lactose-free or vegan alternatives to accommodate different dietary needs without compromising taste experience.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 hours
- Category: Appetizer, Snacks
- Method: None
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 8
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fat: 30 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 22 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 15 g
- Cholesterol: 80 mg