There’s something extra special about a recipe that feels simple but tastes gourmet. That’s exactly what marinated cheese is. You take a few cubes of mozzarella or cheddar, add fresh herbs, garlic, and a drizzle of good olive oil, and suddenly you’ve got a jar of magic in your fridge.
This recipe is one of my favorites when I want to dress up a cheese board or need a last-minute appetizer that looks fancier than the effort it takes. Plus, it makes a thoughtful homemade food gift if you’re heading to a friend’s house.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortless but impressive: All you need is some chopping and stirring—no cooking required.
- Customizable: Swap the herbs or spices based on what you have in your kitchen.
- Versatile: Works on cheese boards, with bread, in salads, or even as a pasta topping.
Tip: If you’re using it for a party, make two jars—one for serving and one to keep for yourself. Trust me, you’ll want leftovers.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 450 g mozzarella or cheddar cheese, cubed
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tbsp fresh basil, chopped
- 1 tbsp sun-dried tomatoes in oil, chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp fresh oregano, chopped
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Tip: Choose a good-quality olive oil here. Since it’s the main “sauce,” the flavor of the oil really matters.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the jar
Place the cubed cheese into a clean glass jar, leaving just a little room at the top. This way, the marinade can move around and coat everything evenly. - Mix the marinade
In a bowl, stir together the olive oil, parsley, sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, basil, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. - Combine
Pour this flavorful oil mixture over the cheese in the jar until all the cubes are completely covered. If needed, add a bit more olive oil. - Seal it up
Close the jar tightly with a lid. A little shake helps spread the herbs and spices around the cheese. - Let it rest
Refrigerate for at least 4 hours—or better yet, overnight. This waiting time is what allows the flavors to really sink into the cheese.
Serving Ideas
Marinated cheese is a versatile little treat. You can:
- Add it to a cheese platter alongside crackers and nuts.
- Spoon it over toasted bread for a quick bruschetta.
- Toss it into a salad for extra flavor.
- Serve with a glass of wine for a no-fuss appetizer.
One of my favorite ways? Simply fishing out a cube with a toothpick straight from the jar when I’m looking for a savory snack.
Storage Tips
Keep your marinated cheese in the fridge for up to a week. Always make sure the cubes are fully covered in oil—that’s what keeps them fresh.
If the olive oil solidifies a little in the fridge, don’t worry—it’s natural. Just let the jar sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes and the oil will return to liquid.
Final Thoughts
Marinated cheese is one of those recipes that feels like a little kitchen secret. It’s quick, adaptable, and adds so much flavor to any occasion. Whether you’re hosting friends, making a special snack for yourself, or gifting a homemade jar, this recipe is proof that simple ingredients can create something truly special.