Marinated Cheese and Olives

 Marinated Cheese and Olives is a simple yet flavorful appetizer that's perfect for any occasion. It's easy to make ahead of time and requires minimal effort. Here's a detailed recipe to guide you:

Ingredients:

• For the Cheese:

  • 8 ounces cheese (choose your favorites! Cheddar, Havarti, Monterey Jack, or a combination work well)

• For the Marinade:

  • 1/2 cup olive oil
  • 1/4 cup red wine vinegar (or balsamic vinegar)
  • 1 tablespoon dried oregano
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary (or 1 teaspoon dried)
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

• For Serving:

  • 1 cup pitted green olives (kalamata, manzanilla, or a mix)
  • 1 cup pitted black olives (calamata, kalamata, or a mix)
  • Toothpicks for serving

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Cheese:

   • Cut the cheese into cubes or slices, depending on your preference. Bite-sized pieces are ideal for easy grabbing with toothpicks.

2. Make the Marinade:

   • In a large bowl or jar with a lid, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar (or balsamic vinegar), oregano, rosemary, garlic powder, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper.

3. Combine and Marinate:

   • Add the cubed or sliced cheese and the pitted olives to the marinade. Toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.
   • Cover the bowl or seal the jar tightly. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or ideally overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and infuse the cheese and olives. The longer they marinate, the more flavorful they become.

4. Serve:

   • When ready to serve, take the marinated cheese and olives out of the refrigerator.
   • Use toothpicks to spear the cheese, olives, or a combination of both for a delightful bite.

Tips:

• Cheese Selection: Choose cheeses that complement each other well. A combination of a mild cheese like Havarti and a sharper cheese like cheddar offers a nice contrast in flavors. You can also experiment with flavored cheeses like smoked gouda or pepper jack for an extra punch.
• Herb Variations: Fresh herbs like thyme or basil can be added to the marinade for a different flavor profile.
• Spice it Up: For a spicier kick, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a chopped fresh jalapeno to the marinade.
• Serving Options: If you don't want to use toothpicks, you can serve the marinated cheese and olives in a bowl with a slotted spoon for easy scooping. You can also arrange them on a platter with crackers or bread slices for spreading.
• Marinate Other Ingredients: This marinade can also be used to marinate other ingredients like cherry tomatoes, artichoke hearts, or roasted red peppers for additional variety on your appetizer platter.

Enjoy this easy and delicious Marinated Cheese and Olives appetizer! It's a crowd-pleaser that's sure to be a hit at your next gathering.