Description

This Marinated Cheese Appetizer with Salami & Green Olives is a flavorful and easy-to-prepare dish perfect for gatherings and parties. Cubes of mozzarella and feta cheese are combined with savory salami strips and briny green olives, then soaked in a zesty marinade of olive oil, garlic, oregano, lemon juice, and red pepper flakes for a deliciously tangy and aromatic bite. The mixture is chilled to allow the flavors to meld, creating a delightful appetizer that’s perfect served with crackers or toothpicks.

Ingredients

Scale

Cheese

8 ounces of mozzarella cheese, cubed
8 ounces of feta cheese, cubed

Meat

4 ounces of salami, cut into strips

Olives

1 cup of green olives, pitted and halved

Marinade

1 cup of extra virgin olive oil
4 cloves of garlic, minced
1 tablespoon of dried oregano
1 tablespoon of red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
Zest of 1 lemon
Juice of 1 lemon

Garnish

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Instructions

Prepare the cheese: Cut the mozzarella and feta cheese into uniform cubes to ensure even marinating.
Combine main ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the cubed mozzarella and feta cheese with the salami strips and halved green olives. Gently toss to mix them together.
Make the marinade: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, minced garlic, dried oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), lemon zest, and lemon juice until well combined.
Coat the mixture: Pour the marinade over the cheese, salami, and olives mixture, making sure everything is well coated in the oil.
Cover and seal: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the mixture to a glass jar with a lid. Ensure the jar is sealed tightly if using one.
Marinate: Allow the mixture to marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours; for best results, let it marinate overnight to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.
Prepare to serve: When ready to serve, take the marinated cheese appetizer out of the refrigerator. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the contents to a serving platter.
Garnish: Garnish the platter with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and added freshness.
Serve: Serve the marinated cheese appetizer with toothpicks or alongside your favorite crackers and bread.

Notes

For a spicier kick, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Use a mix of olives if you prefer different flavors—Kalamata or black olives work well.
Best marinated overnight for deeper flavor infusion, but a minimum of 2 hours is sufficient.
Ensure cheeses are fresh and well-drained to prevent excess moisture in the marinade.
Store any leftovers in a sealed container in the refrigerator and consume within 3-4 days.