Description
A delightful Greek-inspired marinated cheese plate combining feta, cream cheese, and mozzarella soaked in a flavorful olive oil marinade with garlic, lemon zest, herbs, and spices. Perfect for entertaining, it offers a harmonious blend of creamy textures and Mediterranean flavors, served chilled or at room temperature alongside crackers or warm bread.
Ingredients
Cheese
- 1 (8 oz) block feta cheese
- 1 (8 oz) block cream cheese
- 1 (8 oz) block mozzarella
Marinade
- ¾ cup olive oil
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the cream cheese: Place the block of cream cheese in the freezer while you prepare the other ingredients. This step ensures it will slice cleanly into even pieces later.
- Make the marinade: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, chopped fresh dill, red pepper flakes, dried oregano, and black pepper until fully blended and aromatic.
- Slice the cheeses: Slice the feta and mozzarella blocks into approximately ¼-inch thick small squares. Remove the cream cheese from the freezer and slice it similarly to maintain uniformity across cheeses.
- Arrange the cheese: In an 11x7-inch or comparable baking dish, alternate the sliced cheeses by lining them up in rows, placing mozzarella slices next to feta and cream cheese slices, filling the dish evenly.
- Marinate the cheese: Give the marinade a quick whisk if needed, then pour it evenly over the arranged cheese slices ensuring all pieces are coated.
- Refrigerate: Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 3 hours to allow the flavors to meld deeply into the cheeses.
- Serve: Before serving, allow the cheese plate to come to room temperature for optimal flavor and texture. Serve it with crackers, pita bread, or toasted bread as a delightful appetizer or snack.
Notes
- Freezing the cream cheese before slicing helps achieve neat, even pieces.
- Marinating time is essential for developing the full blend of flavors; do not skip or shorten it.
- This cheese plate can be prepared a few hours ahead, making it perfect for entertaining.
- Adjust red pepper flakes based on your preferred spice level.
- Serve at room temperature to enhance the aromatic qualities of herbs and olive oil.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator and consume within 3 days for the best freshness.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Greek