Description
This easy marinated cheese appetizer combines creamy Havarti cheese with savory salami, tangy pickles, olives, and sun-dried tomatoes, all tossed in a flavorful garlic vinaigrette. Perfect for entertaining, this no-cook dish can be prepared ahead of time and served alongside crackers or bread for a delightful starter or party snack.
Ingredients
Scale
Cheese & Meat
- 6 oz Havarti cheese, diced
- 1 cup salami, cubed
Vegetables & Add-ins
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes (oil-packed)
- ½ cup cornichons (small pickles), sliced
- ½ cup Castelvetrano olives
- 2 tbsp fresh basil, chopped
Dressing
- 1 cup garlic vinaigrette (or Italian-style vinaigrette)
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, add the diced Havarti cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, cubed salami, sliced cornichons, Castelvetrano olives, and chopped fresh basil. Mix lightly to distribute the ingredients evenly.
- Add Vinaigrette: Pour the garlic vinaigrette over the combined ingredients and gently toss to coat everything thoroughly without breaking down the cheese or pickles.
- Marinate: Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 1 to 2 hours. For the best flavor, marinate overnight to allow the flavors to meld and intensify.
- Serve: Remove from the refrigerator and serve chilled. Pair this marinated cheese appetizer with crackers, slices of fresh bread, or include it on a charcuterie board as a delicious, flavorful addition.
Notes
- For a vegetarian option, omit salami and substitute with more vegetables or plant-based sausage alternatives.
- The marinating time enhances the flavor but can be shortened if needed; however, flavor will be less intense.
- Use oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes for added richness and moisture; drained tomatoes may dry out the mixture.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within 3 days for best freshness.
- Serve chilled for the most refreshing taste and texture.
