This Herb and Garlic Marinated Cheese in a Mason Jar is a delicious and simple appetizer or snack that combines creamy feta and mozzarella cheese with fragrant herbs, garlic, and lemon zest. The cheese absorbs all the flavors of the olive oil marinade, creating a tangy, herb-infused treat that pairs perfectly with crusty bread or crackers. It’s also a great addition to salads or antipasto platters.
Ingredients for Herb and Garlic Marinated Cheese in Mason Jar
- 8 oz block of feta cheese, cubed
- 8 oz block of mozzarella cheese, cubed
- 1 cup olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Zest of one lemon
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions for Herb and Garlic Marinated Cheese
1. Prepare the Cheese
- Cut the 8 oz block of feta cheese and 8 oz block of mozzarella cheese into small cubes. Set the cubed cheese aside.
2. Prepare the Marinade
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the 1 cup olive oil, 4 cloves of thinly sliced garlic, 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, 1 tablespoon dried oregano, 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes, and the zest of one lemon.
- Season the marinade with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting the seasoning according to your preference.
3. Layer the Cheese in the Mason Jar
- In a clean, sterilized mason jar (16 oz or larger), start layering the cubed feta and mozzarella cheese, alternating with some of the herb-garlic marinade as you go. Ensure the cheese is fully covered with the marinade.
- Press the cheese cubes gently to pack them in without squashing them.
4. Marinate
- Once the jar is filled, seal it tightly and let the cheese marinate in the refrigerator for at least 24 hours. The longer it sits, the more flavorful the cheese will become.
5. Serve
- Serve the marinated cheese with crusty bread, crackers, or as part of a charcuterie board. You can also drizzle the leftover flavored oil over salads or roasted vegetables for an added burst of flavor.
Cook’s Notes and Tips
- Cheese Variety: Feel free to experiment with other cheeses like goat cheese, cheddar, or halloumi to mix up the flavor profile.
- Storage: The marinated cheese can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Ensure the cheese is fully submerged in oil to preserve freshness.
- Serving Idea: Bring the jar to room temperature before serving, allowing the olive oil to liquefy fully and the flavors to bloom.
Variations for Herb and Garlic Marinated Cheese
1. Herb-Citrus Marinated Cheese
- Add additional citrus flavors like orange zest or lime zest for a tangy, bright twist.
2. Spicy Marinated Cheese
- Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add sliced fresh chili peppers for an extra kick of heat.
3. Sun-Dried Tomato and Basil Marinated Cheese
- Add sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil leaves for an Italian-inspired version of marinated cheese.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use different types of oil?
Yes, while olive oil is the traditional choice, you can use avocado oil or grapeseed oil if you prefer a lighter flavor.
2. Can I freeze marinated cheese?
It’s best not to freeze marinated cheese, as the texture of the cheese may change upon thawing. However, the marinated cheese should last up to a week in the refrigerator.
3. Can I reuse the leftover oil?
Absolutely! The leftover oil can be used for drizzling on salads, grilled vegetables, or as a dip for bread.
A Flavorful, Make-Ahead Appetizer
This Herb and Garlic Marinated Cheese in a Mason Jar is an easy and flavorful way to elevate simple cheese into a gourmet appetizer. With its aromatic blend of garlic, fresh herbs, and olive oil, this marinated cheese pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes or makes for a delicious snack on its own. Whether you’re hosting guests or preparing a quick snack, this marinated cheese is sure to impress!
