Description
This Marinated Cheese appetizer features layers of medium cheddar and cream cheeses topped with a flavorful mixture of oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, fresh herbs, honey, and a tangy olive oil and vinegar marinade. Perfectly chilled and infused overnight, it makes a beautiful, savory, and easy-to-serve dish that pairs wonderfully with crackers.
Ingredients
Cheeses
- 8 ounce block medium cheddar cheese
- 8 ounce block cream cheese
Marinade
- 3 ounces oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes
- 3 cloves garlic
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh parsley
- 2 teaspoons finely chopped fresh oregano
- 1 teaspoon finely chopped fresh thyme
- 1 teaspoon honey
- Pinch of salt
- Pinch of crushed red pepper flakes
- ½ cup extra virgin olive oil
- ¼ cup vinegar
Instructions
- Prepare the Cheeses: Using a sharp knife, cut the block of medium cheddar cheese in half lengthwise. Then slice each half into ¼-inch-thick squares. Repeat this slicing process with the cream cheese; it will be easier to slice if the cream cheese is cold.
- Arrange the Cheese: Place the alternating cheddar and cream cheese squares in a serving dish at least 1 inch deep. You can use a 9-inch baking dish to arrange several rows or a deep-dish pie plate for a spiral pattern. Set aside the arranged cheeses.
- Make the Marinade: Finely chop the oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes and mince the garlic cloves. Combine them in a bowl or large measuring cup along with freshly chopped parsley, oregano, thyme, honey, salt, crushed red pepper flakes, extra virgin olive oil, and vinegar. Whisk thoroughly to blend all the ingredients well.
- Marinate the Cheese: Pour the prepared marinade evenly over the cheese squares, ensuring the tomatoes and herbs are spread over the top. Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or a lid.
- Chill to Infuse Flavors: Refrigerate the marinated cheeses for at least 6 hours, preferably overnight, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Serve: Serve the cheeses directly in the marinating dish or transfer to a serving platter, making sure to spoon the marinade over the top. Offer with crackers for a delightful appetizer experience.
Notes
- For best slicing, chill the cream cheese before cutting to keep it firm.
- Adjust the type of vinegar to your preference; white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar both work well.
- Make sure to use oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes to keep the marinade flavorful and moist.
- This marinated cheese can be prepared up to 24 hours in advance, enhancing the flavor infusion.
- Serve at chilled or slightly cool temperature for optimal taste and texture.
- Pair with a variety of crackers or rustic bread for serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
