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I always fix up this simple marinated cheese starter when I've got folks coming over. Everyone loves it! Creamy Havarti, salty salami, crisp little pickles, and a garlicky dressing mix together for something way fancier than the effort you put in. Just throw it together fast and let the flavors hang out.
Extra Tasty Reasons
It's the mix of smooth cheese, soft olives, and sharp garlic that hits different every time. The textures and tastes bounce off each other in awesome ways. You can prep this in advance and let it chill, so it's honestly great for any get-together.
Stuff to Grab
- All You Need:
- Havarti, sliced up into chunky cubes
- Diced salami, nothing too fancy
- Sun-dried tomatoes, grab the kind in oil
- Cornichons—they're those tiny tangy pickles
- Castelvetrano olives for that soft bite
- A handful of basil leaves, torn up
- Plenty of garlicky vinaigrette, the good kind
Super Easy Assembly
- Chill Out:
- Tuck it in the fridge for a few hours, even overnight if you've got time.
- Scoop and Snack:
- Set it out with bread or toothpicks so people can dig in.
- Coat Everything:
- Pour your garlic vinaigrette on and toss until every bite gets some.
- Add Basil Bits:
- Rip the basil leaves and scatter them over the top.
- Mix It Up:
- Combine all your cheese, tomatoes, salami, pickles, and olives in a big bowl.
My Go-To Tricks
Pony up for solid sun-dried tomatoes and real-deal Havarti; you'll taste the upgrade. Let it hang out in the fridge overnight and the flavors really pop. Keep your basil fresh and only toss it in at the end. Layer everything in a glass jar if you wanna show it off.
Switch Things Up
- Craving crunch? Throw in some pine nuts
- Going meatless? Roasted peppers or artichokes work great
- Want a little heat? Jalapeños or crushed red pepper do the trick
- Not feeling Havarti? Try mozzarella or Gouda instead
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Stay Yummy Longer
Stash it in the fridge and it'll be good for up to seven days. I like pulling it out cold or letting it warm up a bit. Put out crunchy breadsticks, crackers, and maybe some berries or grapes for the side. Freezing? Don't bother—it totally messes up the texture.
Common Questions
- → How long is this good for in the marinade?
Chill it for a couple hours for solid flavor. Let it sit longer—like overnight—and it tastes even better. It’ll keep up to a week in the fridge.
- → What other cheese can I try?
Try out other semi-firm cheeses like young gouda or provolone. They'll both taste great here.
- → Which vinaigrette should I pick?
Any garlic or Italian dressing, homemade or out of a bottle, will do the job here.
- → Can I change up the ingredients?
Definitely. Use whatever olives, pickles, or meats you love. Just keep about the same amounts for everything.
- → How do I serve this up?
Stick some toothpicks in for easy snacking or pile it on a cheese platter. Grab some bread to soak up that marinade too.