Marinated Cheese in Mason Jar Recipe
Marinated cheese is a delightful appetizer perfect for entertaining or adding a gourmet touch to your snack board. This recipe features an assortment of cheeses soaked in a fragrant blend of olive oil, herbs, and spices. As it marinates, the cheese absorbs the flavors, becoming more robust and aromatic. Storing it in mason jars not only looks beautiful but also keeps it fresh and convenient for serving. Here’s how to make marinated cheese step by step.
Ingredients
For the Cheese and Marinade:
- 8 oz block of sharp cheddar cheese, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 8 oz block of cream cheese or Monterey Jack cheese, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- ⅓ cup white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp fresh herbs (such as rosemary, thyme, or parsley), chopped
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
- ½ tsp black peppercorns
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp lemon zest
- Optional add-ins: sun-dried tomatoes, sliced olives, or roasted red peppers
For the Mason Jars:
- 2 (8 oz) mason jars with lids or 1 (16 oz) mason jar
Equipment Needed:
- Cutting board and knife
- Mason jars with lids
- Mixing bowl
- Spoon or small spatula
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cheese
- Cut the blocks of sharp cheddar and cream cheese (or Monterey Jack) into 1-inch cubes. Ensure the cheese is evenly sized for consistent marination.
Step 2: Prepare the Marinade
- In a mixing bowl, combine the extra-virgin olive oil, white wine vinegar, minced garlic, chopped fresh herbs, dried Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper flakes, black peppercorns, salt, and lemon zest.
- Stir well to combine.
Step 3: Layer the Cheese and Marinade
- Place a layer of cheese cubes in the bottom of each mason jar. Add a few optional add-ins, like sun-dried tomatoes or sliced olives, between the layers if desired.
- Pour some of the marinade over the cheese, ensuring it is fully submerged.
- Continue layering the cheese and marinade until the jars are full. Press down gently with a spoon to pack the cheese and ensure full coverage by the marinade.
Step 4: Seal and Refrigerate
- Seal the mason jars tightly with their lids and refrigerate for at least 24 hours to allow the flavors to develop. The cheese can be marinated for up to 3 days for even deeper flavor.
Step 5: Serve
- Bring the marinated cheese to room temperature before serving to allow the olive oil to become liquid and flavors to shine.
- Serve with crackers, crusty bread, or as part of a charcuterie board.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serving: Place the marinated cheese on a serving platter, drizzle with a bit of the marinade, and accompany with bread or crackers.
- Storage: Keep the marinated cheese in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
- Refrigeration Tip: The olive oil may solidify in the fridge. Let the jar sit at room temperature for about 20-30 minutes before serving.
Helpful Notes
- Cheese Variations: Swap in goat cheese, feta, or gouda for different flavor profiles.
- Herb Substitutions: Use dried herbs if fresh ones aren’t available, adjusting to half the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated.
- Add a Touch of Sweetness: A teaspoon of honey mixed into the marinade can balance the acidity from the vinegar.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Ina Garten: Recommends using high-quality extra-virgin olive oil for the best flavor since it’s a main component.
- Giada De Laurentiis: Suggests adding a splash of balsamic vinegar for a sweet, tangy twist.
- Martha Stewart: Advises layering in roasted garlic cloves for extra depth and aroma.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I use pre-cut cheese cubes?
Yes, but cutting a block of cheese yourself ensures fresher and more customizable cube sizes.
Q2: What if I don’t have mason jars?
Use any airtight glass container. Clear containers work best to showcase the layers of cheese and marinade.
Q3: Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Yes, use dairy-free cheese alternatives and follow the same marination process.
Q4: Can I reuse the marinade?
Yes, the leftover marinade can be used as a salad dressing or a dip for bread.
Q5: What’s the best way to serve this for parties?
Provide toothpicks or small forks for easy grabbing, and arrange the cheese cubes on a platter with olives and roasted peppers for color.
Q6: How do I prevent the cheese from breaking apart?
Use firmer cheeses and cut them into even cubes to help them hold their shape during marination.
Q7: Can I add meats like salami or pepperoni?
Yes, thinly sliced cured meats can be added to the layers for a more complex snack.
Q8: Can I freeze marinated cheese?
No, freezing can affect the texture of the cheese and oil, making it grainy and less appealing.
Q9: Can I use balsamic vinegar?
Yes, balsamic vinegar adds a richer, sweeter flavor profile and can be a nice variation.
Q10: Is marinated cheese safe to eat if left at room temperature for too long?
For food safety, keep the cheese out at room temperature for no longer than 2 hours at a time.
Enjoy making and serving this marinated cheese in mason jars, a beautiful and flavorful addition to any gathering or cheese lover’s snack spread!