If you are looking for something you can keep on hand for this busy time of year, you will love what I have for you today. It is a super easy make-ahead treat that you can keep on hand at any time. Use it for a quick appetizer when friends stop by or serve alongside an anytime lunch or dinner entree – It’s Cheese!

In this offering I have two types of cheese, feta and mozzarella which I marinated in herbs, olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Serve with crusty bread and use the marinade mixture as a dipping sauce. Super simple, super quick and super delicious.

How to Marinate the Cheese?

Herb Marinated Feta

• 1 8 0unce block feta in brine
• 1 cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil
• 4 cloves chopped garlic
• 2 Tbls fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 Tbls balsamic vinegar
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

Mix garlic, parsley, olive oil and any other herbs of your choosing in a bowl or mason jar. Cut feta into bite-size pieces and add to the oil mixture. Add more olive oil if needed to cover all the cheese pieces. Cover and store for a minimum of 1 hour to marinade, the longer the better as the flavors will develop.

Herb Marinated Mozzarella

• 16 ounces fresh mozzazrella
• 3/4 cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil
• 2 cloves fresh garlic
• 1 Tbls fresh basil, chopped
• 1 Tbls fresh thyme, chopped
• 1 Tbls fresh oregano, chopped
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and Pepper to taste

Mix olive oil, garlic, and herbs in a bowl or mason jar. Cut mozzarella into bite-size pieces and add to the oil mixture. Add more olive oil if needed to cover all the cheese pieces. Cover and store for a minimum of 1 hour to marinade, the longer the better as the flavors will develop.

NOTES:

• If you don’t have fresh herbs on hand, substitute dried.
• Save time and use fresh mozzarella balls.
• Cheese – any type of chuck would be great.
• Change up the herbs – there are no rules.

I know our friends would like this for the party. But we’ll have to see. Cheese doesn’t last in our house.

How are you doing with your holiday preparations? Shopping done?