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Marinated Cheese

Silky cheese cubes marinated in olive oil with garlic, herbs, and spices, perfect as a make-ahead appetizer.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Appetizer
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 180
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main
  • 8 ounces fresh mozzarella balls halved or quartered
  • 6 ounces feta cheese cut into 3/4-inch cubes
  • 1 1/2 cups extra virgin olive oil
  • 4 sprigs fresh rosemary
  • 4 sprigs fresh thyme
  • 6 garlic cloves thinly sliced
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • Lemon zest from 1 lemon in strips
  • 1 teaspoon black peppercorns
  • 1/2 teaspoon sea salt

Equipment

  • Glass jars with tight-fitting lids
  • Sharp knife
  • Cutting board
  • Small bowl
  • Wooden spoon or spatula

Method
 

  1. Cut the fresh mozzarella balls into halves or quarters and cut the feta into uniform 3/4-inch cubes.
  2. Slice the garlic cloves as thinly as possible.
  3. Use a vegetable peeler or microplane to remove the lemon zest in long strips.
  4. In a clean glass jar, layer mozzarella pieces, feta cubes, garlic slices, a rosemary sprig, a thyme sprig, a pinch of red pepper flakes, and lemon zest strips.
  5. Repeat the layering pattern until all the cheese is used, distributing herbs, spices, and garlic evenly.
  6. Scatter the black peppercorns and sea salt over the top layer of cheese.
  7. Slowly pour extra virgin olive oil over the layered cheese until completely submerged.
  8. Seal the jar tightly and refrigerate for at least 24 hours before serving.

Notes

Store the marinated cheese in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks and use a clean spoon when serving. Save the infused oil for drizzling over salads or bread.