Easy Marinated Cheese Appetizer with Pepperoni & Pickles

I love a simple yet bold appetizer that brings together rich flavors in every bite. This Easy Marinated Cheese Appetizer with Pepperoni & Pickles is a perfect blend of creamy Havarti cheese, zesty pepperoni, tangy pickles, and briny olives—all brought together with a flavorful Italian-style vinaigrette. Whether you’re preparing a party platter, a holiday spread, or just a fun snack, this dish is as easy as it is delicious.

A Flavor-Packed Marinated Cheese Dish

Marinated cheese is one of those effortlessly elegant appetizers that never fails to impress. The combination of Havarti’s creamy texture, pepperoni’s savory depth, and the sharp contrast of pickles and sun-dried tomatoes creates a balanced, irresistible bite. Castelvetrano olives add a buttery richness, while fresh basil infuses the dish with a light herbal freshness.

The best part? This appetizer requires no cooking—just a simple mix-and-marinate method that allows the flavors to meld beautifully over time. Serve it straight from the fridge or let it sit overnight for an even more intense taste. Whether paired with crusty bread, crackers, or enjoyed on its own, this marinated cheese will quickly become a go-to favorite!

Ingredients for Easy Marinated Cheese Appetizer with Pepperoni & Pickles

To create this bold and flavorful marinated cheese appetizer, you’ll need a handful of high-quality ingredients that work together to bring out the best in each bite.

• Havarti Cheese (6 oz, diced into bite-sized cubes) – This cheese is creamy, mild, and slightly buttery, making it a perfect base for absorbing the marinade. Roth Original Havarti is a great option.
• Sun-Dried Tomatoes (1/2 cup) – These add a rich, slightly tangy depth of flavor and a chewy texture that contrasts beautifully with the cheese.
• Pepperoni (1 cup, diced into bite-sized cubes) – A bold, slightly spicy addition that pairs perfectly with the creamy cheese and tangy marinade.
• Cornichons (1/2 cup) – These tiny pickles bring a sharp, briny contrast that enhances every bite.
• Castelvetrano Olives (1/2 cup) – Known for their mild, buttery taste, these olives balance the tangy ingredients with a smooth richness.
• Fresh Basil (2 tbsp, roughly chopped) – A fresh, herbal touch that brightens up the entire dish.
• Garlic Expressions or Your Favorite Italian-Style Vinaigrette (1 cup) – This garlicky, tangy dressing infuses every ingredient with bold, savory flavor.

How to Make Easy Marinated Cheese Appetizer

This marinated cheese recipe is incredibly simple to prepare—just a few steps and a little patience while the flavors meld together. Here’s how to make it:

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by dicing the Havarti cheese into bite-sized cubes. Do the same with the pepperoni to ensure each bite has a perfect balance of flavors. Roughly chop the basil, and set everything aside.

Step 2: Combine the Ingredients

In a medium-sized mixing bowl, add the diced Havarti, sun-dried tomatoes, diced pepperoni, cornichons, and Castelvetrano olives. Sprinkle the fresh basil on top.

Step 3: Add the Marinade

Pour 1 cup of Garlic Expressions or your favorite Italian-style vinaigrette over the mixture. Gently toss everything together until all the ingredients are evenly coated in the marinade.

Step 4: Transfer and Marinate

You can either transfer the mixture into a mason jar for easy storage or keep it in the mixing bowl. If using a bowl, cover it tightly with plastic wrap. Place the mixture in the refrigerator and let it marinate. You can serve it immediately, but for the best flavor, let it rest for at least a few hours or up to a week.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

When ready to serve, give the mixture a gentle stir to redistribute the marinade. Serve chilled or at room temperature with crackers, crusty bread, or as a flavorful topping for salads.

How Long to Marinate the Cheese Appetizer

The marination time plays a big role in how deep the flavors develop. While you can serve this appetizer immediately, giving it more time in the fridge enhances the taste. Here’s a breakdown of how marination affects the dish:

• Immediate Serving: The cheese will be lightly coated in the vinaigrette, offering a fresh and bright flavor.
• 2-3 Hours: The ingredients start to absorb the marinade, giving a more balanced taste.
• Overnight (Best Option): The flavors fully infuse, creating a rich, tangy, and savory appetizer with the perfect balance of textures.
• Up to 1 Week: The cheese, pepperoni, and vegetables continue to soak in the vinaigrette, intensifying the flavors. The basil may darken slightly, but the taste remains delicious.

For the best results, I recommend letting the appetizer marinate for at least 4-6 hours before serving.

How to Store Leftovers

If you have leftovers (which isn’t likely because this dish disappears fast!), storing them properly will keep the flavors fresh.

• Refrigerator: Keep the marinated cheese in an airtight container or a sealed mason jar. It will stay fresh for up to 1 week. Stir before serving to redistribute the marinade.
• Freezing: Freezing is not recommended, as the texture of the cheese and vinaigrette will change.

Tips for the Perfect Marinated Cheese Appetizer

To ensure your marinated cheese turns out delicious every time, keep these tips in mind:

• Use High-Quality Ingredients: Since this dish relies on simple flavors, choosing a high-quality Havarti, fresh basil, and a well-balanced vinaigrette makes all the difference.
• Let It Marinate: While you can serve it right away, giving it time to absorb the dressing enhances every bite.
• Customize to Your Taste: Swap out the Havarti for mozzarella, gouda, or Monterey Jack. You can also add artichoke hearts, roasted red peppers, or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for heat.
• Pair with the Right Accompaniments: Serve this appetizer with toasted baguette slices, crackers, or even as a topping for fresh greens.

Print

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use a different type of cheese instead of Havarti?

Absolutely! Havarti is creamy and mild, making it a great base for marinating, but you can easily swap it for other semi-soft or firm cheeses. Mozzarella, Monterey Jack, Gouda, or even feta will work well. Just keep in mind that softer cheeses may break down more quickly in the marinade.

2. How long should I marinate the cheese for the best flavor?

While you can serve the marinated cheese right away, letting it sit for at least 4-6 hours will deepen the flavors. For an even richer taste, marinate it overnight or up to 1 week. The longer it sits, the more the vinaigrette infuses into the cheese and other ingredients.

3. What can I serve with this marinated cheese appetizer?

This dish pairs well with a variety of accompaniments! Serve it with:

• Crusty bread or crackers for a perfect bite-sized snack.
• Toasted baguette slices for an elegant appetizer.
• A fresh salad base to turn it into a light meal.
• Charcuterie boards alongside meats, nuts, and fruit for a well-rounded spread.

4. Can I make this appetizer ahead of time for a party?

Yes! This is one of the best appetizers to make ahead. Simply prepare it a day or two in advance and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Stir it before serving to ensure the vinaigrette is evenly distributed. The flavors will continue to develop, making it even more delicious when served.