I still remember the day I discovered the magic of Marinated Cheese. My aunt shared a jar of herb cheese she had made with simple ingredients from her garden. The flavors were bright, fresh, and so much more complex than any store-bought cheese I had tasted. It was a revelation!
I realized that Marinated Cheese wasn’t just about preserving cheese; it was about infusing it with love and flavor. From that day on, I began my own Marinated Cheese experiments, learning which herbs and spices complemented different types of cheese. It became a way to connect with my family, sharing homemade oil-cured cheese during gatherings and creating new flavor combinations together.
Now, I want to share my kitchen wisdom with you. If you’re ready to add a personal touch to your meals, this Marinated Cheese recipe is your ticket to deliciousness. Let’s embark on this flavorful journey together!
INGREDIENTS You’ll Need:
- 8 ounces feta cheese, cut into 1-inch cubes: For the best flavor in your Marinated Cheese, I recommend sourcing feta that is brined in sheep’s milk for a richer, creamier texture.
- 1 cup extra virgin olive oil: This forms the base of our marinade and carries all the delicious flavors. Look for a high-quality olive oil with a fruity aroma.
- 4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced: You’ll find the freshest ingredients for this Marinated Cheese at your local farmer’s market. Fresh garlic is essential for a pungent, aromatic flavor.
- 2 sprigs fresh rosemary: Rosemary adds a woodsy, earthy note to the cheese. Make sure the rosemary is fresh for the most vibrant flavor.
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes: For a touch of heat, red pepper flakes bring a pleasant warmth to the Marinated Cheese. Adjust the amount to your preference.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: This Marinated Cheese proves that authentic flavor comes from thoughtful ingredient choices. Oregano adds a classic Mediterranean flavor.
- ½ teaspoon black peppercorns, crushed: Freshly crushed peppercorns release their aromatic oils, adding a sharp, spicy bite.
- Zest of 1 lemon: Lemon zest brightens the marinade with a citrusy zing. Be sure to only zest the yellow part of the lemon, avoiding the bitter white pith.
- Optional: A few sun-dried tomatoes, oil-packed, drained: My family loves when I add this extra touch to our Marinated Cheese, for a sweet and tangy flavor boost.
Trust me, this Marinated Cheese ingredient list focuses on quality over quantity for authentic flavors! A pinch of this and a dash of that can make all the difference. Here’s a cheese marinade flavor secret that transformed our family dinners: don’t be afraid to experiment with different herbs and spices to find your perfect blend! Basil, thyme, and even a bay leaf can add unique dimensions to the flavor.
Let’s Create This Together!
- Prepare the Cheese: Gently pat the feta cubes dry with a paper towel. This helps the cheese absorb the cheese marinade better. In my kitchen, this flavorful Marinated Cheese typically takes shape quickly, so having everything prepped beforehand is key.
- Combine Ingredients: In a clean glass jar or container, layer the feta cubes, sliced garlic, rosemary sprigs, red pepper flakes, dried oregano, crushed black peppercorns, and lemon zest. Perfect time to appreciate the aromatic transformation!
- Pour Olive Oil: Slowly pour the olive oil over the cheese and spices, ensuring that all the feta cubes are fully submerged. Here’s where I used to miss a key step with my Marinated Cheese – learn from my experience! Make sure the olive oil covers everything to prevent spoilage.
- Seal and Refrigerate: Secure the lid tightly on the jar or container. Refrigerate for at least 24 hours, or up to 1 week, for the flavors to meld. Your Marinated Cheese should fill the kitchen with amazing aromas by now! The longer it sits, the more flavorful it becomes.
- Serve and Enjoy: When ready to serve, remove the Marinated Cheese from the refrigerator. Allow it to come to room temperature for about 15-20 minutes to soften slightly. Don’t be surprised if your Marinated Cheese develops a slightly cloudy appearance in the refrigerator; this is perfectly normal and doesn’t affect the flavor or quality.
- Serving Suggestion: Serve the herb cheese with crusty bread, crackers, or as part of an antipasto platter. Drizzle some of the infused olive oil over the cheese for extra flavor. While your Marinated Cheese is developing these flavors, take a moment to appreciate creating something special for your family!
I’ve found that using a high-quality olive oil makes a huge difference in the final flavor of the Marinated Cheese. It’s worth investing in a good bottle! Also, don’t be afraid to adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to suit your family’s spice preferences. Some like it hot, and some do not! This recipe is just a starting point – feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to create your own signature infused cheese.
How We Love to Enjoy This!
My family loves this Marinated Cheese served with warm, crusty bread. The combination of the creamy, flavorful cheese and the crunchy bread is simply irresistible. We also enjoy it as part of an antipasto platter, alongside olives, cured meats, and roasted vegetables.
This Marinated Cheese is perfect for those evenings when we want something truly satisfying! It’s also a great appetizer to bring to potlucks or parties. I love presenting it in a beautiful dish, drizzled with some of the infused olive oil and garnished with fresh herbs. It always looks so elegant and inviting.
One of our favorite ways to use leftover Marinated Cheese is to crumble it over salads. It adds a burst of flavor and creaminess that takes any salad to the next level. The family gathers quickly when this aromatic Marinated Cheese appears with our weeknight salad.
During the summer months, I like to add some grilled peaches or nectarines to the platter for a sweet and savory twist. In the winter, roasted root vegetables like beets and carrots make a delicious addition. No matter how you serve it, this Marinated Cheese is sure to be a hit!
By the way, this flavorful Marinated Cheese reminds me of another family favorite, Pumpkin Cheesecake Truffles. So yummy, especially during fall!
FAQs: Your Questions Answered
Does this Marinated Cheese really satisfy hearty appetites?
Absolutely! The richness of the cheese, combined with the flavorful olive oil and spices, makes it a satisfying appetizer or snack. It’s perfect for sharing with friends and family.
What if someone in my family prefers milder flavors in their Marinated Cheese?
No problem! Simply reduce the amount of red pepper flakes or omit them altogether. You can also use milder herbs like parsley or chives instead of rosemary and oregano.
How can I prepare this Marinated Cheese ahead for busy weeks?
This is one of the best things about this recipe! You can prepare it up to a week in advance and store it in the refrigerator. In fact, the longer it sits, the more flavorful it becomes.
Can I use a different type of cheese for this recipe?
Yes, you can! While feta is my personal favorite, other cheeses like goat cheese, mozzarella, or even cheese curds would work well. Just be sure to choose a cheese that holds its shape and doesn’t crumble too easily. Check out Marinated Cheese Curds : At the Immigrant’s Table for some inspiration!
Is the olive oil reusable after the cheese is gone?
Yes! The olive oil becomes infused with the flavors of the cheese and spices, making it delicious for drizzling over salads, vegetables, or grilled meats. Just be sure to strain out any cheese particles before storing it.
How long does the Marinated Cheese last in the refrigerator?
If stored properly in an airtight container, the Marinated Cheese will last for up to 1 week in the refrigerator. Be sure to keep the cheese submerged in olive oil to prevent spoilage. This flavorful Marinated Cheese reminds me of another family favorite, Halloween Swirl Oreo Cream Cheese Brownies. If your family loves these authentic flavors, they’ll appreciate the spooky and yummy brownies.
Can I add other ingredients to the marinade?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different herbs, spices, and vegetables to create your own unique flavor combinations. Some other ingredients you might like to try include sun-dried tomatoes, artichoke hearts, olives, or roasted red peppers. For more genuine cooking ideas for family meals, explore No-Bake Halloween Cheesecake.
Final Kitchen Wisdom:
This Marinated Cheese is more than just a recipe; it’s a way to connect with your family through authentic flavors. It supports my family’s authentic meal goals because it’s simple, delicious, and made with wholesome ingredients.
My Marinated Cheese Flavor Secrets:
- Quality Olive Oil: Splurge on a good bottle of extra virgin olive oil – it makes a world of difference.
- Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs add a vibrant flavor that dried herbs just can’t match.
- Patience is Key: The longer the cheese marinates, the more flavorful it becomes.
Family-Tested Marinated Cheese Variations:
- Spicy Feta: Add extra red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper. My son loves this spicy kick!
- Lemon-Herb Feta: Add more lemon zest and a mix of fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, and oregano. My daughter loves the bright, citrusy flavor!
- Garlic-Infused Feta: Add a few extra cloves of garlic for a bolder, more pungent flavor. My husband can’t get enough of this garlicky version! And you can see another perspective on Mozzarella or feta cheese marinated in olive oil at Facebook!
I hope you enjoy this recipe and make it your own signature version! Remember, cooking is about experimentation and having fun. Don’t be afraid to try new things and see what flavors you and your family love best. I have all faith that you will create a satisfying Marinated Cheese, just like the recipe at Olive Oil Marinated Cheese with Herbs • Heartbeet Kitchen.
I wish you all the best in your kitchen adventures! May your meals be filled with love, laughter, and plenty of delicious Marinated Cheese!
Marinated Cheese
Elevate your cheese board with this flavorful marinated cheese recipe. Cubes of your favorite cheese soak in a fragrant blend of herbs, garlic, and olive oil for a delicious appetizer or snack.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 8 ounces block of cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or provolone), cubed
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon black peppercorns, cracked
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, red pepper flakes (if using), cracked black peppercorns, and salt.
- Add the cubed cheese to the bowl.
- Gently toss to coat the cheese evenly with the marinade.
- Transfer the marinated cheese to an airtight container.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve with crackers, bread, or vegetables.
Notes
For an extra layer of flavor, add a few sun-dried tomatoes or marinated olives to the marinade.