Marinated Cheese Squares
Marinated Cheese Squares are a delightful appetizer featuring cheese cubes infused with tangy vinaigrette and pimentos. The combination of creamy cheese, flavorful dressing, and crunchy crackers makes this dish perfect for parties, gatherings, or casual snacking, offering a savory, colorful, and easy-to-prepare treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut the cheese blocks into 1-inch squares about 1/2 inch thick.
- Place the cheese squares in a shallow dish.
- Pour Dijon vinaigrette dressing over the cheese.
- Add chopped pimentos on top of the cheese and dressing.
- Cover and marinate for several hours or overnight.
- Serve the marinated cheese squares with Wheat Thins or other crackers.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flavor boost, consider adding herbs like dill or basil to the marinade. If you prefer a lower-fat option, you can substitute reduced-fat cream cheese for regular cream cheese. Experiment with different cheese varieties, such as Gouda or Cheddar, for a unique taste. If you can't find Dijon vinaigrette, a homemade vinaigrette with mustard and vinegar will work well.
Serving Suggestions
These marinated cheese squares are best served chilled and can be a delightful appetizer at gatherings. Pair them with Wheat Thins or other crackers for a crunchy contrast. For a complete spread, consider adding fruits like grapes or apples, and complement with a Honey Date Nut Bread(1 Loaf) for a sweet touch.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover marinated cheese squares in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last for up to a week. The flavors will continue to develop over time. If you want to serve them warm, gently reheat in the microwave for a few seconds, but be cautious not to melt the cheese completely.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Marinated Cheese Squares contains roughly 807 calories, with 15g protein, 84g carbohydrates, and 46g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (40% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (31% of the Daily Value), and protein (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 676mg per serving (29% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different types of cheese for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can experiment with various cheese types such as Gouda, Cheddar, or even feta. Just ensure that the cheese can hold its shape when cut into squares, and feel free to mix and match for a more diverse flavor profile.
How long should I marinate the cheese?
For the best flavor, marinate the cheese squares for at least 4 hours, but overnight is ideal. This allows the cheese to absorb the flavors of the Dijon vinaigrette and pimentos, resulting in a more delicious dish.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, marinated cheese squares can be prepared a day in advance. Just ensure they are stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container. The longer they marinate, the more flavorful they become, making them perfect for parties or gatherings.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).