Description

This Marinated Cheese recipe combines a flavorful blend of fresh herbs, spicy peppers, and tangy brine to create a vibrant marinade that infuses a trio of cheeses. Cream cheese, white cheddar, and extra sharp cheddar are layered and soaked in a zesty, herbaceous mixture, perfect for serving with crackers or bread as a savory appetizer or snack.

Ingredients

Scale

Herb Marinade

¼ cup chives (finely chopped)
3 tbsp fresh oregano (finely chopped)
¼ cup parsley (finely chopped)
1 large fresno or jalapeno pepper (minced)
4 cornichons (minced)
2 tbsp cornichon brine
2 tsp Dijon mustard
1 tiny garlic clove (minced)
Black pepper (to taste)
1 lemon zest
1 tbsp honey
1 tbsp sherry vinegar
2 tsp crushed red peppers
⅔ cup good olive oil

Cheeses

8 oz cream cheese
4 oz white cheddar
4 oz extra sharp cheddar
½ tsp Herbs de Provence (optional)

To Serve

Crackers or bread

Instructions

Chill the cream cheese: Place the cream cheese in the freezer for 20 minutes. This helps to firm it up, making it easier to cut and layer with the other cheeses.
Prepare the marinade: In a medium bowl, combine the chopped chives, oregano, parsley, minced fresno pepper, minced cornichons, cornichon brine, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, black pepper, lemon zest, honey, sherry vinegar, crushed red peppers, and Herbs de Provence if using. Mix well, then whisk in the olive oil until fully incorporated. Let the marinade sit for 15 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Assemble the cheese: Cut the cream cheese, white cheddar, and extra sharp cheddar into evenly sized squares. Arrange the cheese squares in rows in a casserole dish, alternating between the white cheddar, sharp cheddar, and cream cheese to distribute flavors evenly.
Marinate the cheese: Pour the prepared marinade evenly over the layered cheeses. Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 24 hours to let the cheese absorb the herbaceous, spicy flavors thoroughly.
Serve: Remove from the fridge and serve chilled or at room temperature with crackers or your choice of bread to enjoy a rich, tangy, and herb-infused cheese appetizer.

Notes

Use fresh herbs for the best flavor impact.
Adjust the amount of crushed red peppers according to your spice preference.
Make sure to chill the cream cheese first to enable clean cutting and layering.
The cheese can marinate up to 2 days for a more intense flavor.
Serve with a variety of crackers or rustic bread to complement the marinade.

Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Appetizer
Method: No-Cook
Cuisine: American

Keywords: marinated cheese, herb cheese marinade, cheese appetizer, cream cheese marinade, cheddar cheese recipe, cheese dip, herb and pepper marinade