The Ultimate Marinated Cheese Appetizer with Salami & Pickles

Looking for a low-effort appetizer that’s full of flavor and perfect for entertaining? This marinated cheese with salami and pickles offers the ultimate mix of creamy, tangy, and savory. With a handful of ingredients and just a little prep time, you’ll have a crowd-pleasing platter ready for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Bold Flavors: Creamy cheese, zesty pickles, and savory salami marinated in a tangy vinaigrette.
Effortless Prep: No cooking required—just layer, marinate, and serve.
Perfect Party Platter: A low-carb, high-protein snack that’s great for holidays, game days, or potlucks.
Customizable: Swap in your favorite cheeses, meats, or veggies for your own spin.

Ingredients

For the Marinade

• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning or dried oregano

For the Appetizer

• 8 oz reduced-fat cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese, cubed
• 3 oz light salami slices, quartered
• 1/2 cup dill pickles, sliced
• 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Make the Marinade

• In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, olive oil, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning until well combined.

Assemble the Appetizer

• In a shallow dish or airtight container, layer the cheese cubes, salami pieces, pickle slices, and red onion (if using).
• Pour the marinade evenly over the ingredients, making sure everything is well coated.

Marinate

• Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably 2, to let the flavors meld. Give the dish a gentle stir halfway through for even coating.

Serve

• Before serving, stir gently and transfer to a serving platter or bowl. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approximate)

Calories: 130 | Carbs: 2g | Fat: 10g | Protein: 8g | Sugar: 1g | Fiber: 0g

Tips for Success

• Use Block Cheese: Freshly cubed cheese holds up better in marinade than pre-shredded or processed varieties.
• Don’t Skip the Chill: Marinating for at least an hour brings out the full flavor.
• Serve with Toothpicks: Easy to grab and perfect for buffet tables.
• Add Variety: You can also add olives, pepperoncini, or cherry tomatoes for extra color and texture.

Why This Recipe Works

• Flavorful but Balanced: A zippy marinade brings life to simple ingredients without overpowering them.
• Minimal Effort, Maximum Impact: Quick to prep, but impressive enough for any occasion.
• Protein-Packed Snack: Great for guests who want something satisfying but not overly heavy.
• Low Carb & Customizable: Easily adaptable for different dietary needs.

This marinated cheese appetizer with salami and pickles is a simple yet irresistible starter. With rich textures and bold flavors, it’s a no-fuss, make-ahead dish that’s always a hit at parties, gatherings, or casual snack spreads. Whip it up once, and it’ll become a go-to favorite!