Dessert

Marinated Christmas Cheese Recipe

Name: Marinated Christmas Cheese Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 6 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, cut into cubes; 8 ounces goat cheese, cut into pieces; ½ cup extra virgin olive oil; ½ cup red wine vinegar; 2 teaspoons honey; ½ teaspoon dried basil; ½ teaspoon dried oregano; ¼ teaspoon salt; ¼ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper; 2 green onions, thinly sliced; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 3 tablespoons chopped fresh basil; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley; 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill; 1 (14 ounce) jar roasted red peppers in oil, drained and chopped

BySophie Carsel December 30, 2025December 30, 2025

Jump to Recipe

Introduction

This Marinated Christmas Cheese is a festive and flavorful appetizer perfect for holiday gatherings. Cubes of sharp cheddar and creamy goat cheese are soaked in a vibrant herb and red pepper marinade, creating a delightful blend of textures and tastes.

A white plate holds a vibrant appetizer with two main layers: at the bottom, there are small white cheese cubes soaked in a golden olive oil mixture. On top, there's a colorful layer of finely chopped red roasted peppers, green spring onion slices, and herbs, creating a textured, fresh look. Surrounding the plate is a neat ring of assorted round and square crackers with a light brown color and slightly crispy texture. The whole setup is on a white marbled surface, giving it a clean, bright appearance. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, cut into cubes
8 ounces goat cheese, cut into pieces
½ cup extra virgin olive oil
½ cup red wine vinegar
2 teaspoons honey
½ teaspoon dried basil
½ teaspoon dried oregano
¼ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
2 green onions, thinly sliced
2 garlic cloves, minced
3 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
1 14 ounce jar roasted red peppers in oil, drained and chopped

Instructions

Step 1: Place the cheddar and goat cheese in a large container or plate with a lip to hold the marinade. Arrange the cheese pieces alternately so the cheddar and goat cheese are evenly distributed.
Step 2: In a bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, honey, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, pepper, green onions, garlic, fresh basil, parsley, and dill. Stir in the chopped roasted red peppers until well combined.
Step 3: Pour the marinade over the cheese, ensuring all pieces are covered. Refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight to allow flavors to meld.
Step 4: Serve the marinated cheese chilled alongside crackers or sliced baguettes for a festive appetizer.

Tips & Variations

Use a mix of your favorite cheeses, such as adding mozzarella or feta, to vary the flavor and texture.
For a spicy kick, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the marinade.
Make it a day ahead to let the flavors develop fully.
If you can’t find roasted red peppers in oil, roast fresh red peppers at home and let cool before chopping.

Storage

Store the marinated cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Gently stir before serving. Bring to room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving to enhance flavor. Consume within a few days for best quality.

How to Serve

The image shows a white plate filled with a colorful appetizer. The bottom layer is made up of evenly cut white cheese cubes. On top of the cheese cubes is a generous layer of finely chopped red and orange roasted peppers mixed with green herbs and sliced green onions, all coated in a glossy, golden olive oil. Surrounding the plate is an arrangement of assorted crackers, some round and some square, all on a white marbled surface. A wooden spoon lifting some cheese and pepper mix is visible at the plate’s edge. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use different types of cheese for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute or add other cheeses like mozzarella, feta, or gouda depending on your preference. Just choose cheeses that hold their shape well when marinated.