Why You’ll Love This Recipe

With a delightful combination of savory, tangy, and creamy flavors, this appetizer is quick to prepare and bursting with freshness. It’s versatile enough to serve with crackers, bread, or even as a side salad, making it perfect for any gathering.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

6 oz Havarti cheese, diced
½ cup sun-dried tomatoes (oil-packed)
1 cup salami, cubed
½ cup cornichons (small pickles)
½ cup Castelvetrano olives
2 tbsp fresh basil, chopped
1 cup garlic vinaigrette (or Italian-style vinaigrette)

Directions

Combine the Havarti cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, salami, cornichons, olives, and fresh basil in a bowl.
Pour the garlic vinaigrette over the ingredients and mix gently.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 1-2 hours, or overnight for the best flavor.
Serve with crackers, bread, or on a charcuterie board.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6-8
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Marinate Time: 1-2 hours (or overnight)
Total Time: 10 minutes (plus marinating)

Variations

Vegetarian Option: Omit the salami and add extra olives or artichoke hearts for added texture.
Cheese Swap: Try gouda, cheddar, or feta for a different flavor profile.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade.

Storage/Reheating

Store the leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. The flavors will continue to develop, making it an excellent make-ahead dish.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes! You can use gouda, mozzarella, or feta as alternatives to Havarti.

2. How long can I store this appetizer?

It can be stored in the fridge for up to a week.

3. Can I make this vegetarian?

Yes, simply omit the salami and add extra olives or vegetables.

4. Can I make this the night before?

Yes, this dish is perfect for making ahead and allowing the flavors to meld overnight.

5. Can I add other vegetables to the mix?

Absolutely! Add artichoke hearts, bell peppers, or other pickled vegetables for more variety.

Conclusion

This Easy Marinated Cheese Appetizer with Salami & Pickles is a delicious, no-fuss dish that’s full of bold flavors. Perfect for any party, picnic, or casual snack, it’s sure to be a hit with your guests.

Easy Marinated Cheese Appetizer with Salami & Pickles

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Author: Chef Sara
Total Time: 10 minutes (plus marinating)
Yield: 6-8 servings
Diet: Gluten Free

Print Recipe

Description

This Easy Marinated Cheese Appetizer with Salami & Pickles is a savory and tangy treat that combines creamy Havarti cheese, zesty cornichons, rich salami, and Castelvetrano olives, all marinated in a garlic vinaigrette. Perfect for any occasion, this appetizer is simple to prepare, bursting with bold flavors, and ideal for making ahead of time for parties or picnics.

Ingredients

6 oz Havarti cheese, diced

½ cup sun-dried tomatoes (oil-packed)

1 cup salami, cubed

½ cup cornichons (small pickles)

½ cup Castelvetrano olives

2 tbsp fresh basil, chopped

1 cup garlic vinaigrette (or Italian-style vinaigrette)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Combine the Havarti cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, salami, cornichons, olives, and fresh basil in a bowl.
Pour the garlic vinaigrette over the ingredients and mix gently.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 1-2 hours, or overnight for the best flavor.
Serve with crackers, bread, or on a charcuterie board.

Notes

For a vegetarian version, omit the salami and add extra olives or artichoke hearts for more texture.

Swap the Havarti cheese for gouda, cheddar, or feta to change up the flavor.

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Category: Appetizer, Snack
Method: No-Bake
Cuisine: Mediterranean, Italian