Ingredients

• 8-ounce block of sharp cheddar cheese, cut into cubes
• 8-ounce block of pepper jack cheese, cut into cubes
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/2 cup sliced salami, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1/2 cup small pickles, like cornichons or dill pickles, sliced
• Fresh herbs, like parsley or basil, for garnish

Instructions

1. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, vinegar, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the cheese cubes to the mixture and toss to coat. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to 2 hours. Overnight marinating has not been tested and may soften the cheese.
3. Arrange marinated cheese cubes on a platter. Add salami slices and pickles around the cheese for a beautiful display.
4. Sprinkle fresh herbs for extra flavor and a pop of color.
5. Serve and enjoy! This appetizer is delicious on its own or with crackers.

Recipe information

• Prep time: Approximately 15 minutes
• Cook time: None
• Total time: Approximately 45 minutes to 2 hours 15 minutes, including marinating
• Servings: Approximately 8 appetizer portions (estimate)
• Difficulty: Beginner — ●○○○○
• Cost: Moderate — $$$
• Region/Ethnic origin: American party appetizer with Italian-inspired seasoning

Make-ahead and storage

Keep the cheese, salami, and pickles refrigerated. For best texture, marinate the cheese for no more than the specified 2 hours and add the salami and pickles when serving.