Pickle Marinated Cheese Recipe

Ingredients

This recipe was developed at its original yield. Ingredient amounts are automatically adjusted, but cooking times and steps remain unchanged. Note that not all recipes scale perfectly.

Original recipe (1X) yields 16 servings

• 8 ounces havarti cheese
• 8 ounces sharp Cheddar cheese
• 6 ounces cream cheese
• 2/3 cup finely chopped sweet and spicy dill pickle chips, such as Wickles Pickles
• 3 tablespoons finely chopped green onions
• 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh dill
• 1 tablespoon ranch seasoning
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper
• 1/4 cup pickle brine from pickle jar
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/2 cup olive oil

Directions

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious cheese and pickle dish:

1. Step 1: Place the cheeses in the freezer for 15 minutes while preparing the marinade.
2. Step 2: In a medium bowl, combine pickles, green onions, dill, ranch seasoning, crushed red pepper, pickle brine, and apple cider vinegar.
3. Step 3: Stir in olive oil until well blended and set the marinade aside.
4. Step 4: Cut each block of cheese in half lengthwise, then slice each piece into 1/4-inch slices to form square pieces.
5. Step 5: Cut a small piece off of the cream cheese and place it between alternating flavors of cheese slices.
6. Step 6: Arrange the alternating cheese slices on their sides in the bottom of a small casserole dish. This can be done in 2 to 4 rows, depending on the size of your dish.
7. Step 7: Pour the reserved marinade over the cheeses, cover the dish, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or up to overnight.
8. Step 8: Serve with crackers and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

Per Serving

Nutrient	Amount	% Daily Value*
Calories	213	-
Total Fat	19g	25%
Saturated Fat	8g	42%
Cholesterol	38mg	13%
Sodium	387mg	17%
Total Carbohydrate	2g	1%
Dietary Fiber	0g	1%
Total Sugars	1g	-
Protein	8g	15%
Vitamin C	1mg	1%
Calcium	216mg	17%
Iron	0mg	1%
Potassium	70mg	1%

*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Recipe by Nicole McLaughlin

History and Origins

Pickle marinated cheese is a unique American appetizer that brings together the creamy richness of cheese with the sharp, tangy flavors of pickles. While its exact origins are unclear, the concept of marinating cheese is quite old and popular in European cultures, particularly in Mediterranean countries. The American version, however, often incorporates more bold and spicy flavors, especially with the use of sweet and spicy dill pickles, which give the dish a distinctive bite. This appetizer likely emerged as part of the growing trend of pickle-infused dishes in the United States, blending traditional cheese-based recipes with the strong, punchy flavors of pickles.

Regional Variations

While pickle marinated cheese is enjoyed across the United States, it is particularly popular in the South, where pickles and cheese are staples in many recipes. In these regions, the dish is often served at gatherings, from casual family dinners to festive barbecues. Variations can include the use of different types of cheeses like gouda or mozzarella, and the pickle brine can vary from sweet to sour, depending on local preferences. The use of local ingredients, such as southern-style pickles or ranch seasoning, gives this dish a regional twist that makes it stand out in various parts of the country.

Differences from Similar Dishes

Pickle marinated cheese differs from similar dishes like cheese and pickle platters or cheese dips in a few key ways. Traditional cheese platters featuring pickles often serve pickles as a side, while in this recipe, the pickles are combined directly with the cheese in a marinade, allowing the flavors to infuse together. This results in a unique, more complex flavor profile where the tangy, spicy notes of the pickle marinade enhance the creaminess of the cheeses. In contrast to cheese dips, which are typically served warm and melted, pickle marinated cheese is served cold, making it a perfect appetizer for warm weather or casual parties.

Where It Is Typically Served

Pickle marinated cheese is a beloved appetizer that can be found at many gatherings, particularly in Southern and Midwest America. It is commonly served as part of a charcuterie board or as a standalone snack at family reunions, barbecues, and football parties. The dish pairs wonderfully with crackers, bread, or vegetables, making it versatile for a variety of occasions. It is also a popular addition to holiday spreads and potlucks, where its bold flavors are sure to stand out among other dishes.

Interesting Facts

• Pickle marinated cheese is often made using dill havarti, cheddar, and cream cheese, which combine for a perfect balance of sharp, creamy, and tangy flavors.
• The addition of pickle brine and apple cider vinegar gives the dish its characteristic tartness, while the use of ranch seasoning adds a savory depth to the overall flavor.
• In some variations, people add extra spices like crushed red pepper or garlic to the marinade, giving the dish a kick of heat.
• While the dish is a modern favorite in the U.S., marinating cheese in brine or vinegar is an ancient practice used in various cultures to preserve cheese and enhance its flavors.
• Pickle marinated cheese is also known for its versatility; you can adjust the recipe based on your taste, using spicier pickles, milder cheeses, or even adding extra herbs like parsley or thyme.

FAQ about Pickle Marinated Cheese Recipe