Description
Summer marinated cheese is a refreshing and easy no-cook appetizer that combines creamy cubes of feta and fresh mozzarella with juicy cherry tomatoes, aromatic fresh herbs, garlic, and a tangy olive oil-based marinade. This Mediterranean-inspired dish is perfect for warm weather entertaining and pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or crackers.
Ingredients
Cheese and Vegetables
- 8 ounces feta cheese, cut into cubes
- 4 ounces fresh mozzarella, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
Marinade
- 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 garlic clove, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon honey
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Salt, to taste
Herbs and Serving
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- Crusty bread or crackers, for serving
Instructions
- Combine the cheese and vegetables: Place the cubed feta, bite-sized mozzarella pieces, and halved cherry tomatoes into a shallow serving dish or container.
- Prepare the marinade: In a small bowl, whisk together the extra-virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, thinly sliced garlic, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, dried oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), honey, black pepper, and salt to taste until well combined.
- Marinate the cheese and tomatoes: Pour the prepared marinade evenly over the cheese and tomatoes, ensuring everything is lightly coated with the flavorful mixture.
- Add fresh herbs and toss gently: Sprinkle the chopped fresh basil and parsley over the marinated mixture. Gently toss everything together carefully to coat all ingredients without breaking the cheese cubes.
- Refrigerate to develop flavors: Cover the dish with a lid or plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes and up to 4 hours to allow the flavors to meld and deepen.
- Bring to room temperature before serving: Remove the marinated cheese from the refrigerator about 10 minutes before serving to let it come to room temperature, enhancing the flavor and texture.
- Serve: Spoon the marinated cheese and tomatoes onto plates or bowls, including some of the marinade, and serve alongside crusty bread or your choice of crackers for a delicious, easy appetizer.
Notes
- Feta cheese holds its shape well during marinating, making it ideal for this recipe.
- For additional Mediterranean flavors, add olives, roasted red peppers, or sliced cucumbers to the marinade.
- Avoid marinating the cheese overnight, as it can become too soft and lose texture.
- Store any leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
