Description
A quick and flavorful marinated cheese appetizer featuring Havarti cheese, salami, tangy pickles, and olives, all tossed in a garlicky vinaigrette. Perfect for entertaining or as a delicious snack, this no-cook dish combines savory and fresh flavors that meld beautifully when marinated.
Ingredients
Scale
Cheese and Meats
- 6 oz Havarti cheese, diced
- 1 cup salami, cubed
Vegetables and Olives
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes (oil-packed)
- ½ cup cornichons (small pickles), sliced or whole
- ½ cup Castelvetrano olives
Herbs and Dressing
- 2 tbsp fresh basil, chopped
- 1 cup garlic vinaigrette (or Italian-style vinaigrette)
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a medium bowl, add the diced Havarti cheese, cubed salami, sun-dried tomatoes, cornichons, Castelvetrano olives, and chopped fresh basil. Gently mix to distribute the ingredients evenly.
- Add Vinaigrette: Pour the garlic vinaigrette over the mixed ingredients. Stir gently to coat everything thoroughly without breaking up the cheese or meat pieces.
- Marinate: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 1-2 hours to allow flavors to meld. For best results, let it marinate overnight.
- Serve: Remove from the refrigerator and serve chilled or at room temperature. This appetizer pairs wonderfully with crackers, sliced bread, or as part of a charcuterie board.
Notes
- Marinating overnight enhances the flavor, but 1-2 hours is sufficient if short on time.
- Use oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes to add richness; drain excess oil if desired.
- You can substitute the garlic vinaigrette with any Italian dressing you prefer.
- Feel free to add nuts like walnuts or almonds for extra texture.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian-American
