Irresistible Marinated Cheese Platter
This Irresistible Marinated Cheese Platter is the ultimate crowd-pleaser that combines delightful flavors and textures in every bite. A cherished favorite among my catering clients, this appetizer features a medley of creamy cheeses and vibrant herb-infused marinade. It's perfect for gatherings, game days, or as a sophisticated addition to any cheese board. The zesty marinade made from olive oil, vinegar, and fresh lime juice envelops the cheeses, creating a harmony of flavors that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Serve it alongside crunchy Wheat Thins for a delicious contrast. Preserve this recipe for an appetizer that’s sure to impress!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
13
Ingredients
Ingredients
olive oil
1/2 cup (None)
white wine vinegar
1/4 cup (None)
fresh lime juice
1/4 cup (Juiced from fresh limes)
roasted red peppers
7 ounces (Drained and diced)
green onions
3 (Chopped)
fresh flat leaf parsley
3 tablespoons (Chopped)
fresh cilantro
3 tablespoons (Chopped)
sugar
1 teaspoon (None)
salt
1/2 teaspoon (None)
pepper
1/2 teaspoon (None)
colby-monterey jack cheese
8 ounces (Cut into halves and then sliced)
monterey jack pepper cheese
8 ounces (Cut into halves and then sliced)
cream cheese
8-16 ounces (Cut into blocks or softened)
Instructions
1
In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, white wine vinegar, and fresh lime juice until well combined.
2
Add the roasted red peppers, chopped green onions, parsley, cilantro, sugar, salt, and pepper to the marinade, stirring gently to mix.
3
Set the marinade aside to allow the flavors to meld.
4
Take the blocks of colby-monterey jack cheese and monterey jack pepper cheese and cut each block in half lengthwise, then slice them into thin rectangular pieces.
5
Arrange the cheese slices alternately in a pie dish or shallow serving platter, standing the slices on their edges for an eye-catching display.
6
Pour the prepared marinade over the arranged cheese slices, using a fork to gently spread it and ensure each slice is well coated.
7
Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 8 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the cheeses to absorb the marinade flavors.
8
When ready to serve, carefully peel back the plastic wrap and drain excess marinade into the sink, leaving a little for flavor.
9
Serve the marinated cheese platter with Wheat Thins or your favorite crackers for a delightful appetizer.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Irresistible Marinated Cheese Platter?
It is a sophisticated appetizer featuring colby-monterey jack, monterey jack pepper cheese, and cream cheese marinated in a zesty herb-infused dressing.
What ingredients are needed for the marinade?
The marinade is made from olive oil, white wine vinegar, fresh lime juice, roasted red peppers, green onions, fresh flat leaf parsley, fresh cilantro, sugar, salt, and pepper.
How long should the cheese marinate?
The cheese should be refrigerated for at least 8 hours, though letting it sit overnight is preferred for the best flavor absorption.
What types of cheese are used in this recipe?
The recipe calls for 8 ounces of colby-monterey jack cheese, 8 ounces of monterey jack pepper cheese, and 8-16 ounces of cream cheese.
How should the cheese be sliced?
Cut the blocks of cheese in half lengthwise and then slice them into thin rectangular pieces.
What is the best way to display the cheese slices?
Arrange the cheese slices alternately in a shallow dish, standing them on their edges for an eye-catching presentation.
What should I serve with this marinated cheese?
It is traditionally served with Wheat Thins, but you can use any of your favorite crackers.
Do I need to drain the marinade before serving?
Yes, carefully drain the excess marinade before serving, though leaving a small amount helps maintain the flavor.
How do I prepare the roasted red peppers?
The roasted red peppers should be drained of their liquid and diced into small pieces before being added to the marinade.
Can I use bottled lime juice?
Fresh lime juice is recommended for its vibrant flavor, though bottled can be used if fresh is unavailable.
Is this recipe suitable for game days?
Absolutely, it is a crowd-pleasing snack that works well for game days, parties, and gatherings.
What kind of vinegar is best for this recipe?
White wine vinegar is used in this recipe to provide a mild, crisp acidity to the marinade.
How many green onions are required?
You will need 3 green onions, finely chopped.
Can I substitute the cilantro?
If you do not like cilantro, you can substitute it with more fresh parsley or chopped chives.
Is there sugar in the marinade?
Yes, 1 teaspoon of sugar is added to balance the acidity of the vinegar and lime juice.
How do I prepare the cream cheese?
The cream cheese can be cut into blocks or softened, depending on your preferred texture for the platter.
What are the fresh herbs used in this dish?
The recipe uses 3 tablespoons each of chopped fresh flat leaf parsley and fresh cilantro.
Should I cover the dish while it marinates?
Yes, cover the dish with plastic wrap to keep the cheese fresh while it refrigerates for 8 or more hours.
Is this recipe spicy?
The monterey jack pepper cheese provides a mild kick, but the overall dish is flavorful rather than overly spicy.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 13 total ingredients used to make this marinated cheese platter.
Can I make this platter ahead of time?
Yes, it is designed to be made at least 8 hours ahead of time, making it an excellent make-ahead appetizer.
What is the purpose of the olive oil?
The 1/2 cup of olive oil acts as the base for the marinade, helping to carry the herb and citrus flavors into the cheese.
Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
Fresh herbs provide the best flavor and color, but if using dried, reduce the amount to 1 tablespoon each.
Is this a vegetarian appetizer?
Yes, this recipe contains only cheese, oil, vinegar, citrus, and vegetables, making it suitable for vegetarians.
How much roasted red pepper is needed?
The recipe calls for one 7-ounce jar of roasted red peppers, drained and diced.
What is the flavor profile of this dish?
It is creamy, zesty, and herb-forward with a perfect balance of salt, acid, and a touch of sweetness.
Can I use other types of crackers?
Yes, while Wheat Thins are a classic pairing, pita chips or butter crackers also work well.
What equipment do I need?
You will need a medium bowl for whisking, a knife for slicing, and a pie dish or shallow platter for serving.
How do I ensure the cheese is well coated?
After pouring the marinade over the cheese, use a fork to gently spread the mixture and ensure every slice is covered.
Why is this recipe a catering favorite?
Its beautiful presentation and unique combination of marinated flavors make it a sophisticated yet easy-to-eat choice for events.