Description
A flavorful Mediterranean-inspired marinated cheese and olive appetizer combining cubes of feta and mozzarella with mixed olives, infused with a fragrant marinade of garlic, herbs, olive oil, and balsamic vinegar, perfect for entertaining or casual snacking.
Ingredients
Scale
Cheese and Olives
- 200 g feta cheese, cubed
- 200 g mozzarella cheese, cubed
- 200 g mixed olives (e.g., Kalamata, green)
Marinade
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 120 ml olive oil
- 60 ml balsamic vinegar
- Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, place the cubed feta and mozzarella cheese along with the mixed olives, ensuring all are clean and ready for marinating.
- Prepare Marinade: In a smaller bowl, whisk together the minced garlic, dried oregano, dried rosemary, red pepper flakes (if using), olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and freshly cracked black pepper until the mixture is well combined and aromatic.
- Marinate Mixture: Pour the prepared marinade over the cheese and olives in the large bowl and gently toss to coat all the pieces evenly with the flavorful mixture.
- Transfer to Container: Move the marinated cheese and olive mixture into a glass jar or container, ensuring the garlic and herbs are evenly distributed throughout.
- Refrigerate: Seal the container with a lid and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, though marinating overnight is recommended for the best flavor infusion.
- Serve: Serve chilled or at room temperature as a delicious appetizer, ideal to accompany bread or crackers.
Notes
- Marinate for longer (preferably overnight) to achieve deeper, richer flavors.
- Customize by adding herbs like thyme or basil, or ingredients such as sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor complexity.