Description
Mediterranean flavors dance in this Marinated Cheese and Olives appetizer, bringing zesty herbs and rich textures together. Salt-kissed olives and creamy cheese create an irresistible starter perfect for entertaining guests or enjoying a quick, elegant snack.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 16 ounces (450g) Colby-Jack cheese, cubed
- 12 ounces (340g) Kalamata olives, drained
Seasonings and Herbs:
- 1 tablespoon dried Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 6 fresh rosemary sprigs
Liquid and Aromatics:
- 1 cup (240ml) Italian salad dressing
- 6 large garlic cloves, smashed
Instructions
- Select high-quality feta or mozzarella cheese and slice into uniform cubes, ensuring each piece is roughly bite-sized for easy consumption.
- Place your chosen mixed olives in a spacious container that allows for thorough marinating.
- Prepare a vibrant marinade by combining extra virgin olive oil, aged balsamic vinegar, thinly sliced garlic, aromatic fresh herbs like oregano or thyme, and a hint of crushed red pepper for subtle heat.
- Whisk the marinade ingredients until they form a harmonious blend, seasoning with salt and pepper to enhance the overall flavor profile.
- Gently transfer the cheese cubes and olives into a clean, sealable glass container, creating an even layer.
- Drizzle the meticulously crafted marinade over the cheese and olives, ensuring complete and uniform coating.
- Incorporate bright lemon zest and freshly squeezed lemon juice, carefully folding the ingredients to distribute the citrusy notes.
- Seal the container and refrigerate for a minimum of two hours, allowing the flavors to meld and intensify – overnight marination will yield the most robust taste experience.
- Before serving, let the marinated delicacies rest at room temperature for 15-20 minutes to soften and release their full aromatic potential.
- Transfer to an elegant serving dish, garnishing with finely chopped parsley for a pop of color and fresh herbaceous notes.
- Accompany with crusty artisan bread or crisp crackers to complement the rich, tangy flavors.
Notes
- Choose soft, creamy cheeses like feta or mozzarella that absorb marinade flavors quickly and evenly.
- Select a variety of olives with different textures and colors to create visual appeal and complex taste profiles.
- Customize the marinade by adjusting herbs and spices according to personal preferences or dietary restrictions.
- Ensure ingredients are at room temperature before marinating to enhance flavor absorption and develop richer taste notes.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 hours
- Category: Appetizer, Snacks
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 12
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 40mg