Description
A flavorful and easy-to-make appetizer featuring marinated feta and mozzarella cheeses combined with mixed olives, infused with garlic, herbs, and a tangy balsamic vinaigrette. Perfect for entertaining or enjoying as a savory snack.
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
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 120 ml olive oil
- 60 ml balsamic vinegar
- Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Combine cheese and olives: In a large bowl, combine the cubed feta cheese, mozzarella cheese, and mixed olives ensuring an even distribution.
- Prepare marinade: In a separate smaller bowl, whisk together minced garlic, dried oregano, rosemary, red pepper flakes (if using), olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and freshly cracked black pepper until well combined.
- Mix marinade with cheese and olives: Pour the marinade over the cheese and olives mixture and gently toss to coat all ingredients evenly with the flavorful marinade.
- Transfer to container: Move the marinated mixture into a glass jar or airtight container, making sure to distribute the garlic and herbs evenly throughout.
- Refrigerate to marinate: Seal the container with a lid and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Serve: Serve the marinated cheese and olives chilled or at room temperature as a delicious appetizer alongside crusty bread or crackers.
Notes
- For best flavor, marinate overnight.
- Use a mix of olives to add complexity to the flavor.
- The red pepper flakes add a subtle heat but can be omitted for a milder taste.
- Use fresh herbs if available for enhanced aroma.
- Store leftovers refrigerated and consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Marinating
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: approx. 100 g
- Calories: 230 kcal
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 520 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 3 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 8 g
- Cholesterol: 25 mg
Keywords: marinated cheese, feta cheese, mozzarella, mixed olives, Mediterranean appetizer, garlic marinade, easy appetizer
