If you’re looking for a snack that’s bursting with flavor and easy to prepare, this Marinated Cheese and Olives Recipe is an absolute game-changer. Combining sharp cheddar and creamy Havarti cheeses with tangy black and green olives, plus the freshness of bell pepper and a simple marinade, it offers layers of taste and texture that will have you reaching for more. Whether you’re entertaining guests or craving a quick bite, this dish brings together savory, bright, and herby notes in one delightful bowl.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, quality ingredients is the key to making this Marinated Cheese and Olives Recipe truly shine. Each component plays an essential role: from the cheeses providing a creamy, savory base to the olives adding zesty bursts of flavor, and the bell pepper contributing a sweet crunch.
- 6 ounces sharp cheddar cheese (cubed): Brings a bold, tangy richness that anchors the dish.
- 3 ounces Havarti cheese (cubed): Adds a smooth, buttery contrast to the sharp cheddar.
- 1 bell pepper (sliced): Offers a crisp, colorful freshness that lightens the mix.
- 1/4 cup black olives: Imparts a deep, slightly salty flavor with a tender bite.
- 1/4 cup pimento stuffed green olives: Adds a bright, piquant pop and visual appeal.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps meld all flavors together with a silky finish.
- 1 tablespoon white distilled vinegar: Provides a gentle tang that balances richness.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian herbs: Sprinkles in aromatic, savory depth with classic Mediterranean flair.
How to Make Marinated Cheese and Olives Recipe
Step 1: Combine All Ingredients
Start by adding the cubed sharp cheddar and Havarti cheeses, sliced bell pepper, black olives, and pimento stuffed green olives into a mixing bowl. Drizzle over the olive oil and white distilled vinegar, and sprinkle the dried Italian herbs evenly. Stir everything well to coat each piece, making sure the marinade embraces every bite. This simple step ensures that all the flavors meld beautifully while keeping the textures intact.
Step 2: Let It Chill and Infuse
Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours. This resting time is crucial because it allows the cheese and olives to soak up the marinade, resulting in a more harmonious and flavorful dish. Once chilled, remove the bowl and let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes. This slight warming enhances the aromas, preparing the Marinated Cheese and Olives Recipe to truly impress your taste buds.
How to Serve Marinated Cheese and Olives Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate the presentation and add a fresh note, sprinkle a handful of finely chopped fresh parsley or basil over the marinated mixture. A few thinly sliced green onions or a pinch of red pepper flakes can also add a mild kick and vibrant color contrast. These simple garnishes make the dish feel even more vibrant and inviting.
Side Dishes
This Marinated Cheese and Olives Recipe pairs wonderfully with crusty bread like baguette slices or crunchy crackers, offering a perfect base to scoop up the marinated goodness. It also complements light salads or charcuterie boards, turning a simple snack into the star of your appetizer spread.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the marinated cheese and olives in hollowed-out mini bell peppers or cherry tomatoes for bite-sized delights. Alternatively, layer the mixture over toasted pita chips or stuff it inside pita pockets along with fresh greens for a Mediterranean-inspired snack. The vibrant colors and textures make this dish as delightful to look at as it is to eat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The Marinated Cheese and Olives Recipe will keep well for up to 3 days. As the flavors continue to mingle over time, they often become even more pronounced, making the leftovers just as enjoyable, if not more.
Freezing
Freezing is not recommended for this recipe because the texture of the cheese and olives can become compromised upon thawing, resulting in a mushy and less appealing dish. This treat is best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated.
Reheating
Since this dish is served cold or at room temperature, reheating is unnecessary and may change the delicate textures. Allowing it to come to room temperature before serving after refrigeration is the ideal way to bring out its full flavor and creaminess.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cheese in this Marinated Cheese and Olives Recipe?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar and Havarti are recommended for their complementary flavors, feel free to experiment with other semi-firm cheeses like Monterey Jack, Gouda, or Asiago. Just be sure to choose cheeses that hold their shape well when marinated.
How long can I marinate the cheese and olives?
Marinating for at least 2 hours is essential to allow the flavors to blend, but you can also leave it overnight for an even more intense infusion. Keep it refrigerated and covered to maintain freshness.
Is this dish suitable for parties?
Definitely! This Marinated Cheese and Olives Recipe is a fantastic party snack or appetizer. It’s quick to prepare, easy to serve, and offers a sophisticated taste that guests will love. Plus, it pairs perfectly with wine and other finger foods.
Can I adjust the herbs or spices?
Yes, you can tailor the herbs to suit your preference. Italian herbs give a classic Mediterranean feel, but you might also try adding a pinch of smoked paprika, crushed garlic, or even fresh rosemary to switch things up.
What can I serve this with for a full meal?
This marinated snack works great as a starter or side. Pair it with grilled meats, fresh salads, or a warm loaf of bread to turn it into a satisfying and balanced meal.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Marinated Cheese and Olives Recipe enough if you want something that’s quick, delicious, and guaranteed to impress. It’s one of those beautifully simple dishes where the quality of ingredients really shines through, and the flavors come alive with just a little time to marinate. So go ahead, whip up a batch for your next gathering or cozy night in — your taste buds will thank you!
Print
Marinated Cheese and Olives Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Marinated Cheese and Olives recipe offers a flavorful and easy-to-make appetizer featuring sharp cheddar and Havarti cheeses combined with bell pepper and a mix of black and pimento-stuffed green olives. Marinated in olive oil, white vinegar, and Italian herbs, it is perfect for serving at parties or as a savory snack.
Ingredients
Cheese
- 6 ounces sharp cheddar cheese (cubed)
- 3 ounces Havarti cheese (cubed)
Vegetables and Olives
- 1 bell pepper (sliced)
- 1/4 cup black olives
- 1/4 cup pimento stuffed green olives
Marinade
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon white distilled vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: Add the cubed sharp cheddar and Havarti cheeses, sliced bell pepper, black olives, and pimento-stuffed green olives to a mixing bowl. Pour in the olive oil, white distilled vinegar, and sprinkle the dried Italian herbs. Stir everything well to coat all ingredients evenly with the marinade.
- Marinate: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld together and for the cheese to absorb the marinade.
- Bring to Room Temperature: Before serving, remove the marinated cheese and olives from the refrigerator and let them set at room temperature for about 15 minutes to enhance the taste and texture.
Notes
- Use good quality cheeses for best flavor.
- Feel free to swap or add other types of olives or bell pepper colors based on preference.
- This dish is best served slightly chilled but not cold; allowing it to come to room temperature enhances the flavors.
- Can be prepared ahead of time and stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
