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Irresistible Marinated Cheese

Elevate your appetizer game with this irresistible marinated cheese recipe. Cubed feta and mozzarella pearls are infused with garlic, herbs, and spices in olive oil, creating a flavorful and versatile treat perfect for serving with bread, crackers, or as part of a charcuterie board.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Course: Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

  • 8 ounces Feta cheese, cubed
  • 8 ounces Fresh Mozzarella pearls bocconcini
  • 1 cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil
  • 4 cloves Garlic, thinly sliced
  • 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Basil leaves, roughly chopped
  • Zest of 1 Lemon
  • 1/4 teaspoon Black Peppercorns, lightly crushed
  • Optional: Sun-dried Tomatoes oil-packed
  • Optional: Kalamata Olives pitted

Equipment

  • Glass jar or container with a tight-fitting lid
  • Knife
  • Cutting board
  • Measuring cups
  • Measuring spoons
  • Paper towels

Method
 

  1. Prepare the Cheese: Drain any excess liquid from the feta and mozzarella. Pat them dry with paper towels.
  2. Combine Ingredients: In the glass jar, layer the feta, mozzarella, garlic slices, oregano, red pepper flakes, basil, lemon zest, and black peppercorns. Add the optional sun-dried tomatoes and olives if desired.
  3. Cover with Oil: Pour the olive oil over the cheese and other ingredients, ensuring that everything is fully submerged.
  4. Marinate: Seal the jar tightly and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably 24-48 hours. The longer it marinates, the more flavorful it becomes.
  5. Serve: Before serving, bring the cheese to room temperature for about 30 minutes to allow the oil to soften and the flavors to bloom. Serve with crusty bread, crackers, or as part of a charcuterie board.

Notes

For best results, use high-quality extra virgin olive oil. Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your spice preference. Marinating for 24-48 hours allows the flavors to fully develop. Store marinated cheese in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Ensure cheese is fully submerged in oil during storage.