Cheese cubes Recipe

I’ve always been on the lookout for that perfect appetizer – something simple yet sophisticated, delicious but not overly fussy. Enter these herb-marinated cheese cubes. Honestly, they’ve become a staple in our house. From casual weeknight snacks to more elaborate weekend gatherings, they disappear every single time. My family, even the pickiest eaters, absolutely devour them. There’s something about the combination of creamy cheese, fragrant herbs, and a hint of garlic that is just irresistible. They are incredibly versatile, too! You can customize the herbs to your liking, use different types of cheese, and they are fantastic served in so many ways. If you’re searching for an effortless appetizer that will impress your guests (or just elevate your snack game), look no further. This recipe is a winner.

Ingredients

To create these delectable herb-marinated cheese cubes, you’ll need a selection of fresh, high-quality ingredients. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity, yet the flavor payoff is immense when you use the best components. Here’s a detailed breakdown of what you’ll need, and why each ingredient plays a crucial role:

• Cheese: 1 pound (approximately 450 grams) of firm cheese, cut into roughly ¾ inch cubes.
  • Choosing the Right Cheese: The type of cheese you select is paramount to the final taste and texture of your marinated cubes. For optimal results, opt for firm or semi-firm cheeses that hold their shape well when cubed and marinated. Soft cheeses like brie or feta are not ideal as they tend to crumble or become too soft in the marinade.
    • Excellent Choices:
      • Cheddar: A classic and widely loved choice. Sharp cheddar provides a robust flavor that stands up beautifully to the marinade. Medium cheddar is also a great option for a milder profile.
      • Monterey Jack: A mild, creamy cheese that absorbs flavors exceptionally well. It offers a smooth texture and subtle sweetness that complements the herbs.
      • Provolone: With its slightly nutty and tangy flavor, provolone offers a more complex taste. It’s also firm and holds its shape perfectly.
      • Gouda: Especially young to medium Gouda, has a delightful buttery and slightly sweet taste. It’s firm enough for cubing and marinating.
      • Pepper Jack: For a spicy kick, pepper jack infused with jalapeños is fantastic. The heat adds another dimension to the appetizer, making it perfect for those who enjoy a bit of zing.
      • Swiss Cheese: Its mild, slightly nutty flavor and firm texture make it a good base that soaks up the marinade without overpowering it.
    • Cheese Combinations: Don’t be afraid to mix and match cheeses! A combination of cheddar and Monterey Jack, or provolone and Gouda, can create a more interesting and layered flavor profile. Using two or three different types of cheese adds visual appeal as well to your final dish.
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil: ½ cup (approximately 120 ml).
  • The Importance of Quality Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) is not just a carrier for the herbs and flavors; it’s a significant contributor to the overall taste and texture. Using a good quality EVOO makes a noticeable difference. Look for olive oils that are fruity, peppery, or grassy, depending on your preference. Avoid bland or overly processed olive oils, as they won’t impart the same richness and depth of flavor.
  • Infused Olive Oils (Optional): For an extra layer of flavor, consider using infused olive oils. Garlic-infused, herb-infused, or even chili-infused olive oils can elevate the marinade. If using infused oils, you might want to adjust the fresh herbs accordingly to avoid flavor clashes.
• Fresh Herbs, Finely Chopped: ¼ cup packed (approximately 60 ml). Choose a combination of your favorites.
  • Herb Selection and Flavor Profiles: Fresh herbs are the heart of this marinade, infusing the cheese with vibrant aromas and flavors. A blend of herbs is typically more complex and interesting than using just one.
    • Excellent Herb Choices:
      • Rosemary: Provides a piney, robust, and slightly pungent flavor. Use sparingly as it can be quite strong.
      • Thyme: Offers an earthy, slightly lemony, and delicate flavor. It’s a versatile herb that pairs well with most cheeses.
      • Oregano: Adds a bold, slightly peppery, and warm flavor, often associated with Mediterranean cuisine.
      • Basil: Provides a sweet, peppery, and slightly anise-like flavor. It’s particularly lovely with milder cheeses like Monterey Jack or provolone.
      • Parsley (Italian Flat-Leaf): Offers a fresh, clean, and slightly peppery flavor. It’s a great all-rounder and adds brightness.
      • Chives: Provide a mild onion-like flavor. They are delicate and add a subtle sharpness.
    • Herb Combinations to Consider:
      • Mediterranean Blend: Rosemary, thyme, oregano. This combination is robust and aromatic, perfect for stronger cheeses like cheddar or provolone.
      • Italian Blend: Basil, parsley, oregano, a touch of thyme. This is a brighter, fresher blend that works well with milder cheeses like Monterey Jack or Gouda.
      • French Blend (Herbes de Provence Inspired): Thyme, rosemary, savory, marjoram, lavender (optional, very small amount). This blend is more complex and floral, offering a sophisticated flavor.
  • Fresh vs. Dried Herbs: While fresh herbs are highly recommended for their vibrant flavor and aroma, in a pinch, you can use dried herbs. However, remember that dried herbs are more concentrated in flavor, so you will need to use about one-third the amount of fresh herbs. For example, if the recipe calls for ¼ cup of fresh herbs, use about 1 tablespoon of dried herbs. Rehydrate dried herbs slightly by rubbing them between your fingers before adding them to the marinade to release their aroma.
• Garlic: 2-3 cloves, minced.
  • Garlic’s Role: Garlic adds a pungent, savory depth to the marinade. Freshly minced garlic is best for its robust flavor.
  • Garlic Variations:
    • Roasted Garlic: For a milder, sweeter garlic flavor, you can use roasted garlic cloves instead of raw. Roasted garlic is less pungent and offers a mellow sweetness that complements the herbs and cheese.
    • Garlic Powder (Emergency Option): If you don’t have fresh garlic, garlic powder can be used as a substitute, but it won’t provide the same fresh, pungent flavor. Use about ½ to ¾ teaspoon of garlic powder.
• Red Pepper Flakes (Optional): ¼ – ½ teaspoon, or to taste.
  • Adding a Touch of Heat: Red pepper flakes provide a subtle warmth and a gentle kick of spice that balances the richness of the cheese and the freshness of the herbs. Adjust the amount to your spice preference. If you are sensitive to spice, start with a smaller amount or omit them entirely.
• Salt and Freshly Ground Black Pepper: To taste.
  • Seasoning is Key: Salt and pepper are essential for enhancing the flavors of all the ingredients. Season generously, but taste as you go. The salt will draw out the flavors of the cheese and herbs, while pepper adds a subtle bite.
  • Salt Type: Sea salt or kosher salt are preferred for their cleaner taste compared to iodized table salt.

High-Quality Ingredients for Optimal Flavor: Using fresh, high-quality ingredients is crucial for the best flavor in these marinated cheese cubes. Don’t skimp on the olive oil or herbs. The better the ingredients, the more flavorful and enjoyable your appetizer will be. Taking the time to select good quality cheese and fresh herbs will truly elevate this simple recipe into something special.

Instructions

Creating these flavorful herb-marinated cheese cubes is remarkably easy. Here’s a step-by-step guide to ensure perfect results every time:

1. Prepare the Cheese: Begin by cutting your chosen cheese into approximately ¾ inch cubes. Uniform cubes not only look aesthetically pleasing but also ensure even marination.
   • Tips for Cubing Cheese:
     • Firmness is Key: Ensure your cheese is firm enough to cube cleanly. If the cheese is slightly soft, chilling it in the refrigerator for about 15-20 minutes before cutting can help firm it up.
     • Sharp Knife: Use a sharp knife for clean cuts. A cheese knife or a chef’s knife works well.
     • Consistent Size: Aim for relatively uniform cubes for even marination and a consistent presentation. Don’t worry about absolute perfection; just try to keep them roughly the same size.
2. Prepare the Marinade: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the extra virgin olive oil, finely chopped fresh herbs, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes (if using).
   • Mixing the Marinade:
     • Bowl Size: Choose a bowl that is large enough to comfortably hold all the cheese cubes and the marinade, allowing for easy mixing.
     • Herb Distribution: Ensure the herbs are finely chopped and evenly distributed in the olive oil to maximize flavor infusion.
     • Garlic Finely Minced: Mince the garlic finely to release its flavor effectively into the marinade. Larger pieces of garlic might not infuse the oil as thoroughly.
3. Season the Marinade: Season the marinade generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Remember that the cheese itself might be salty, so start with a moderate amount of salt and adjust after tasting.
   • Seasoning to Taste:
     • Taste Test: Always taste your marinade before adding the cheese. This is your chance to adjust the seasoning to your liking. Is it salty enough? Does it need more pepper? More herbs?
     • Balance of Flavors: Aim for a balance of flavors – the freshness of the herbs, the pungency of the garlic, a hint of spice from the red pepper flakes, and the savory notes from salt and pepper.
4. Combine Cheese and Marinade: Gently add the cheese cubes to the bowl with the marinade. Toss gently to ensure that all cheese cubes are well coated with the herb mixture.
   • Gentle Tossing:
     • Avoid Breaking Cheese: Be gentle when tossing the cheese cubes in the marinade to avoid breaking them. Use a spatula or your hands to gently coat the cheese.
     • Even Coating: Make sure every cube is nicely coated with the marinade for maximum flavor absorption.
5. Marinate: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the cheese and marinade to an airtight container. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, for the flavors to fully develop and infuse the cheese.
   • Marinating Time:
     • Minimum 2 Hours: While you can technically serve these after just 2 hours of marinating, the flavor will be significantly enhanced by a longer marinating time.
     • Overnight is Best: Marinating overnight (8-12 hours) is ideal for allowing the flavors to deeply penetrate the cheese.
     • Up to 2 Days: You can marinate the cheese for up to 2 days in the refrigerator. Beyond that, the texture of the cheese might start to change slightly.
     • Turning Occasionally: If possible, gently stir or turn the cheese cubes in the marinade a few times during the marinating process to ensure even flavor distribution.
6. Serve: Before serving, let the cheese cubes come to room temperature for about 15-20 minutes for the best flavor and texture. Serve as desired (see “How to Serve” section for ideas).
   • Room Temperature Serving:
     • Flavor Enhancement: Bringing the cheese to room temperature allows the flavors to become more pronounced and complex. Cold cheese can taste somewhat muted.
     • Texture Improvement: Room temperature cheese is also softer and creamier in texture compared to cold cheese straight from the refrigerator.
     • Presentation: Letting them sit at room temperature slightly allows the olive oil marinade to become a bit more fluid and glossy, enhancing the visual appeal.

Tips for Success:

• Quality Cheese: Start with good quality, flavorful cheese. The better the cheese, the better the final product will be.
• Fresh Herbs are Key: Use fresh herbs for the most vibrant and aromatic marinade. Dried herbs can be used in a pinch, but fresh herbs are far superior.
• Don’t Skimp on Marinating Time: Patience is key. Allow ample time for the cheese to marinate and absorb the flavors. Overnight marinating is highly recommended.
• Taste and Adjust Seasoning: Always taste your marinade before adding the cheese and adjust seasoning to your liking.
• Room Temperature Serving: Remember to bring the cheese cubes to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture experience.

By following these simple instructions, you’ll create incredibly flavorful and addictive herb-marinated cheese cubes that are perfect for any occasion.

Nutrition Facts

(Estimated, per serving. Nutritional values can vary based on the type of cheese and olive oil used.)

• Servings: Approximately 10-12 servings (serving size: about 5-6 cheese cubes)
• Calories per serving: Approximately 180-220 calories

Approximate Nutritional Breakdown per Serving:

• Fat: 15-18g (primarily from cheese and olive oil, including healthy monounsaturated and saturated fats)
• Saturated Fat: 8-10g (varies depending on cheese type)
• Cholesterol: 40-50mg (varies depending on cheese type)
• Sodium: 200-300mg (varies depending on cheese type and salt added)
• Carbohydrates: 1-2g (negligible)
• Fiber: 0g
• Sugar: 0g
• Protein: 8-10g (from cheese)

Important Notes:

• Portion Control: Cheese cubes are delicious and easy to eat, but they are calorie-dense. Be mindful of portion sizes, especially if you are watching your calorie intake.
• Cheese Type Variation: The nutritional values can significantly change depending on the type of cheese used. For example, cheddar cheese will generally be higher in fat and calories than Monterey Jack. Lower-fat cheese options can be used to reduce the calorie and fat content.
• Olive Oil Type: Extra virgin olive oil is a source of healthy fats, but it still contributes to the overall calorie count. Using less olive oil might slightly reduce calories, but it can also impact the flavor and marinating process.
• Herbs and Spices: The herbs, garlic, and red pepper flakes contribute minimal calories but are rich in flavor and some micronutrients.

This nutritional information is an estimate and should be used as a general guideline. For precise nutritional information, especially if you have specific dietary needs, you can use online nutrition calculators and input the exact type and amount of cheese and olive oil you are using.

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15-20 minutes (for cubing cheese, chopping herbs, and mixing marinade)
• Marinating Time: Minimum 2 hours, ideally overnight (8-12 hours), up to 2 days for optimal flavor.
• Total Time (excluding marinating): 15-20 minutes
• Total Time (including overnight marinating): Approximately 8 hours 15 minutes to 2 days 20 minutes.

Time Breakdown:

• Active Time: The active time involved in making this recipe is relatively short, around 15-20 minutes. This includes the time spent:
  • Gathering ingredients (2-3 minutes)
  • Cubing the cheese (5-7 minutes)
  • Chopping fresh herbs and mincing garlic (5-7 minutes)
  • Mixing the marinade (2-3 minutes)
  • Combining cheese and marinade (1-2 minutes)
• Inactive Time (Marinating): The majority of the preparation time is inactive, spent waiting for the cheese to marinate. This “hands-off” time is when the magic happens, as the cheese absorbs all the wonderful flavors of the marinade.

Make-Ahead Friendly:

This recipe is exceptionally make-ahead friendly, which is one of its greatest advantages, especially when preparing for gatherings or parties.

• Prepare in Advance: You can prepare the cheese cubes and let them marinate up to 2 days in advance. This allows you to get ahead of your party prep or meal planning.
• Flavor Deepens Over Time: The flavors actually improve as the cheese marinates longer (within the recommended time frame), making it even more delicious when served later.
• Last-Minute Serving: On the day of serving, all you need to do is take the marinated cheese cubes out of the refrigerator, let them come to room temperature for a short while, and arrange them on a serving platter. Minimal effort for maximum impact!

Time-Saving Tips:

• Pre-Cubed Cheese: While cubing cheese yourself ensures freshness and control over size, you can sometimes find pre-cubed cheese in supermarkets to save a few minutes of prep time. However, ensure the pre-cubed cheese is still fresh and of good quality.
• Herb Chopping Gadgets: If you frequently chop herbs, consider using a herb chopper or mezzaluna to speed up the process.
• Garlic Press: A garlic press can quickly mince garlic, although some chefs prefer mincing by hand for better texture and flavor.

Overall, the preparation of herb-marinated cheese cubes is quick and easy, with the majority of the time being hands-off marinating time. This makes it a perfect appetizer for busy hosts or anyone who appreciates delicious food without spending hours in the kitchen.

How to Serve

Herb-marinated cheese cubes are incredibly versatile and can be served in numerous ways, making them suitable for a variety of occasions. Here are some delightful serving suggestions:

• Classic Appetizer Platter:
  • Crackers: Serve with an assortment of crackers – from simple water crackers to flavorful herb or multigrain crackers.
  • Bread: Offer slices of crusty baguette, toasted crostini, or artisanal bread for a heartier option.
  • Olives: Include a selection of olives – Kalamata, green olives, Castelvetrano – to complement the cheese and herbs.
  • Charcuterie: Add cured meats like salami, prosciutto, or chorizo to create a more substantial charcuterie board.
  • Fresh Fruit: Grapes (red and green), apple slices, or pear slices provide a refreshing contrast to the savory cheese.
  • Vegetables: Include crudités like carrot sticks, celery sticks, cucumber slices, or bell pepper strips for a healthy crunch.
  • Nuts: Toasted almonds, walnuts, or pecans add texture and richness.
• Cheese Skewers:
  • Simple Skewers: Thread cheese cubes onto skewers along with cherry tomatoes, olives, and fresh basil leaves.
  • Antipasto Skewers: Create more elaborate skewers with cheese, marinated artichoke hearts, sun-dried tomatoes, and salami or prosciutto.
  • Caprese Skewers: Combine cheese cubes, cherry tomatoes, and fresh basil leaves for a Caprese-inspired skewer. Drizzle with balsamic glaze for extra flavor.
• Salad Topping:
  • Garden Salad: Sprinkle marinated cheese cubes over a fresh garden salad for added flavor and protein.
  • Mediterranean Salad: Incorporate them into a Mediterranean salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion, olives, and a lemon-herb vinaigrette.
  • Pasta Salad: Add cheese cubes to a cold pasta salad with pesto, vegetables, and grilled chicken or shrimp for a more substantial meal.
• Cheese and Antipasto Bowls:
  • Antipasto Bowl: Create a vibrant antipasto bowl by combining marinated cheese cubes with marinated vegetables (artichokes, roasted peppers, mushrooms), olives, salami, and crusty bread for dipping.
  • Cheese and Olive Bowl: Simply arrange the marinated cheese cubes in a bowl along with a variety of olives for a simple yet elegant appetizer.
• Pizza or Flatbread Topping:
  • Gourmet Pizza: Use marinated cheese cubes as a topping for homemade pizza or flatbread, especially on white pizzas or pizzas with herb-infused sauces.
  • Flatbread Appetizer: Spread pesto or olive tapenade on flatbread, top with marinated cheese cubes, and bake until warm and bubbly.
• Wine and Cheese Pairing:
  • Wine Companion: Serve these cheese cubes as part of a wine and cheese pairing. Pair them with:
    • Crisp White Wines: Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, dry Riesling
    • Light-Bodied Red Wines: Pinot Noir, Beaujolais
    • Rosé Wines: Dry Rosé from Provence or Spain
    • Sparkling Wines: Prosecco, Cava
• Simple Snack:
  • Everyday Snack: Enjoy a small bowl of marinated cheese cubes as a flavorful and satisfying afternoon snack or evening nibble.
  • Lunchbox Addition: Pack a few cheese cubes in a lunchbox for a protein-rich and tasty addition to a meal.

Presentation Tips:

• Garnish: Garnish serving platters or bowls with fresh herbs from the marinade (like rosemary sprigs or thyme sprigs) for visual appeal and to reinforce the flavor profile.
• Olive Oil Drizzle: Drizzle a bit of the herb-infused olive oil from the marinade over the cheese cubes just before serving for extra flavor and shine.
• Variety of Colors and Textures: When creating platters, aim for a variety of colors and textures to make them visually appealing and enticing. Combine the creamy cheese with crunchy crackers, bright fruits, and vibrant vegetables.
• Serving Dishes: Use attractive serving dishes – wooden boards, ceramic platters, glass bowls – to enhance the presentation.

No matter how you choose to serve them, herb-marinated cheese cubes are sure to be a hit. Their delicious flavor and versatility make them a perfect appetizer for any occasion.

Additional Tips

To ensure your herb-marinated cheese cubes are absolutely perfect every time, here are five additional tips to keep in mind:

1. Adjust Herbs to Your Taste: Feel free to experiment with different herb combinations to find your personal favorite. If you love rosemary, use more of it. If you prefer a milder flavor, lean towards parsley and basil. Don’t be afraid to try less common herbs like marjoram, savory, or even a hint of mint for a unique twist. You can also adjust the quantity of herbs based on your preference. Start with the recommended amount and adjust in subsequent batches.
2. Use High-Quality Olive Oil: As mentioned earlier, the quality of your olive oil significantly impacts the flavor of the marinade. Invest in a good quality extra virgin olive oil. Look for oils that are fruity, peppery, or grassy. Taste different olive oils to find one you particularly enjoy. The olive oil not only carries the herb flavors but also adds its own character to the cheese.
3. Don’t Over-Marinate: While marinating overnight is ideal, avoid marinating for excessively long periods (beyond 2-3 days). Over-marinating can sometimes alter the texture of the cheese, making it slightly too soft or mushy, especially with softer cheese varieties. Stick to the recommended marinating times for the best texture and flavor balance.
4. Bring to Room Temperature Before Serving: This tip is crucial for maximizing flavor and texture. Cold cheese can taste muted and be less creamy. Allowing the cheese cubes to sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving allows the flavors to become more pronounced and the texture to soften slightly, making them more enjoyable to eat. This also allows the olive oil marinade to become more fluid and glossy, enhancing the visual appeal.
5. Store Properly: If you have leftover marinated cheese cubes (though it’s unlikely!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator, submerged in the marinade. This will help keep the cheese fresh and flavorful for up to 3-4 days. The olive oil helps to preserve the cheese. Make sure the container is tightly sealed to prevent any off-flavors from the refrigerator from affecting the cheese. When serving leftovers, again, remember to let them come to room temperature for the best experience.

By following these additional tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating consistently delicious and impressive herb-marinated cheese cubes that are perfect for any occasion. Experimentation and attention to detail are key to making this simple recipe truly shine.

FAQ Section

Q1: What type of cheese is best for marinating?

A: Firm or semi-firm cheeses are ideal for marinating as they hold their shape well and absorb flavors effectively. Excellent choices include cheddar, Monterey Jack, provolone, Gouda, pepper jack, and Swiss cheese. Avoid soft cheeses like brie or feta as they tend to crumble or become too soft in the marinade.

Q2: Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh herbs?

A: While fresh herbs are highly recommended for their vibrant flavor and aroma, you can use dried herbs in a pinch. Remember that dried herbs are more concentrated, so use about one-third the amount of fresh herbs. For example, if the recipe calls for ¼ cup of fresh herbs, use about 1 tablespoon of dried herbs. Rehydrate dried herbs slightly by rubbing them between your fingers before adding them to the marinade.

Q3: How long should I marinate the cheese cubes?

A: For the best flavor, marinate the cheese cubes for at least 2 hours, but ideally overnight (8-12 hours). Marinating overnight allows the flavors to fully develop and penetrate the cheese. You can marinate them for up to 2 days in the refrigerator. Avoid over-marinating beyond 2-3 days as the texture of the cheese might change.

Q4: Can I make these cheese cubes ahead of time?

A: Yes, absolutely! Herb-marinated cheese cubes are perfect for making ahead of time. You can prepare them up to 2 days in advance and store them in the refrigerator, submerged in the marinade. The flavors actually improve over time, making them even more delicious when served later. This makes them an excellent choice for parties and gatherings.

Q5: How should I store leftover marinated cheese cubes?

A: Store leftover marinated cheese cubes in an airtight container in the refrigerator, submerged in the marinade. The olive oil in the marinade helps to preserve the cheese and keep it flavorful. They can be stored for up to 3-4 days. When serving leftovers, remember to bring them to room temperature for about 15-20 minutes for the best flavor and texture.

These FAQs should address common questions and concerns about making herb-marinated cheese cubes, making the recipe even more accessible and user-friendly.

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