Can I make this marinated cheese dairy-free?

Yes! Firm tofu and cultured cashew cheese work wonderfully with this marinade. Follow the same process but reduce marinating time to 3 hours for tofu.

How long can I leave the cheese plate out during a party?

For food safety, limit room temperature exposure to 2 hours. For longer events, consider using a chilled serving platter or replacing the plate halfway through.

Which cheeses hold up best in the marinade?

Firmer cheeses like feta, halloumi, and aged gouda maintain their texture best. Avoid very soft cheeses like brie or camembert, which can become too runny.

Can I reuse the marinade?

Absolutely! Strain out the solids and use the flavored oil as a delicious bread dip or salad dressing within 5 days.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

The marinated cheese itself is gluten-free. Just be sure to serve with gluten-free crackers or vegetable dippers for a completely gluten-free appetizer.

Can I use different herbs based on what I have available?

Definitely! While the Mediterranean herb blend works beautifully, feel free to experiment with herbs like basil, tarragon, or dill for different flavor profiles.

How can I make this recipe less spicy?

Simply reduce or omit the red pepper flakes. You can add a pinch of smoked paprika instead for flavor depth without heat.

Best Marinated Cheese Plate

Description

This marinated cheese plate infuses feta, gouda, and goat cheese with Mediterranean herbs, citrus, and olive oil, creating a stunning, flavorful appetizer perfect for parties and gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale

For the marinated cheese:

8 oz block of feta cheese (firm variety)
8 oz block of gouda or havarti cheese
6 oz semi-soft goat cheese
1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
4 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves
1 tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped
1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
2 tablespoons honey
Zest of 1 lemon
1/2 teaspoon black peppercorns
1/2 teaspoon sea salt

For the plate assembly:

1 cup mixed olives
1/2 cup roasted red peppers, sliced
1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes
1/3 cup toasted walnuts or marcona almonds
Fresh herbs for garnish
Artisan crackers or sliced baguette

Instructions

Cut feta and gouda/havarti into 1-inch cubes; form goat cheese into small rounds.
Whisk olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, rosemary, thyme, oregano, red pepper flakes, honey, lemon zest, peppercorns, and salt in a bowl.
Layer cheese in a glass container, pour marinade over to cover, seal, and refrigerate at least 4 hours (ideally overnight), turning occasionally.
Before serving, let cheese sit at room temperature for 30 minutes.
Arrange cheese on a serving platter with olives, roasted peppers, sun-dried tomatoes, and nuts. Garnish with fresh herbs.
Drizzle some reserved marinade over the plate. Serve with crackers or baguette.

Notes

Use block cheese for best texture and flavor absorption.
Marinated cheese keeps up to 7 days refrigerated.
For a dairy-free version, marinate firm tofu or cashew cheese.
Leftover marinade makes a great salad dressing or bread dip.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Appetizer
Method: No-cook, Marinating
Cuisine: Mediterranean-Inspired

Nutrition

Serving Size: 2 oz cheese + accompaniments
Calories: 275
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 410mg
Fat: 24g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Unsaturated Fat: 12g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 6g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 8g
Cholesterol: 35mg

Keywords: Marinated Cheese Plate, Mediterranean appetizer, cheese board, party cheese platter, marinated feta, entertaining appetizer