Marinated Cheese: How Long Does It Stay Fresh?

Marinated cheese is a tasty and easy-to-make appetizer that can be served with crackers or bread. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. The longer the cheese is allowed to marinate, the more flavourful it becomes. However, it is recommended to bring the cheese to room temperature before serving if it has been stored in the refrigerator.

How long does marinated cheese last in the fridge?

The shelf life of marinated cheese in the fridge depends on several factors, including the type of cheese, moisture content, and storage method.

Soft cheeses, such as feta, mozzarella, and cream cheese, have a shorter shelf life than harder varieties. In general, soft cheeses will last about a week in the fridge. However, to get the most out of your product, proper storage is key. For instance, cheese sold in brine, like feta, should be kept in the liquid with a secure lid. For blue cheese, wrapping it in foil is recommended. Soft-ripened cheeses, like Brie, are more delicate and should be wrapped in cheese paper, parchment paper, or kept in an airtight container.

Semi-hard cheeses, such as cheddar, Gruyère, and Monterey Jack, have a slightly longer shelf life of about two to three weeks in the fridge. To extend their freshness, remove them from their plastic packaging and wrap them loosely in wax paper or cheese paper before placing them in an airtight container.

Hard cheeses, such as aged cheddar, aged Gouda, and Parmigiano Reggiano, have a much longer shelf life. An unopened package of hard cheese can last about six months in the refrigerator, while an opened package can last about four weeks. To store hard cheeses, remove them from their plastic packaging and wrap them loosely in wax paper or cheese paper before placing them in an airtight container.

Additionally, olive oil can be used to preserve marinated cheese and extend its shelf life. The oil creates a barrier against bacteria and other microorganisms. However, adding fresh herbs or aromatics to the oil will decrease the shelf life to about two weeks, as the moisture from the fresh produce allows bacteria to grow. Therefore, it is important to store marinated cheese in the refrigerator and consume it within this timeframe.

What is the best cheese for marinating?

When it comes to choosing the best cheese for marinating, there are a few factors to consider. Firstly, softer, milder, and creamier cheeses are generally recommended as they are more porous and better able to absorb the flavours of the marinade. Harder cheeses can also be used, but they may not take on the marinade flavours as effectively. Here are some of the best cheeses for marinating:

Havarti

Havarti is a mild, creamy, and slightly acidic semi-soft cheese that melts in your mouth. It is an excellent choice for marinating as it pairs well with a variety of herbs and spices. Its creamy texture and mild flavour make it a versatile option that can be used in a variety of dishes.

Gouda

Gouda is a classic mild and creamy cheese with a slight sweetness. Its smooth texture and mellow flavour make it a perfect choice for marinating. Gouda absorbs the flavours of the marinade beautifully, making it a delightful addition to any appetizer spread.

Feta

Feta is a Greek cheese with a tangy, salty flavour and a crumbly yet creamy texture. It is a popular choice for marinating as it holds its shape well and can be easily cut into cubes or blocks. Feta pairs exceptionally well with olive oil and herbs, making it a refreshing and flavourful addition to salads or appetizers.

Mozzarella

Mozzarella is a mild and creamy cheese with a delicate, milky flavour. It is a versatile cheese that can be used in a variety of dishes, from appetizers to pizzas. When marinated, mozzarella takes on the flavours of the marinade beautifully, making it a tasty and crowd-pleasing option.

Cheddar

Cheddar cheese, particularly mild or sharp varieties, can be an excellent choice for marinating. Cheddar has a slightly stronger flavour than some other cheeses, but it pairs well with a variety of herbs and spices. It is a firm cheese that holds its shape well, making it easy to slice and serve.

Goat Cheese

For those seeking a more unique and interesting option, goat cheese is an excellent choice. It has a tangy and creamy flavour with a distinctive taste that can be enhanced by marinating. Goat cheese pairs well with a variety of herbs and can be a delightful addition to any cheese board or appetizer.

In conclusion, the best cheeses for marinating are typically those that are softer, milder, and creamier, as they better absorb the flavours of the marinade. However, harder cheeses such as cheddar can also be used successfully. Experimenting with different types of cheese and marinade combinations can lead to some delicious and unique flavour profiles.

How to make marinated cheese

Marinated cheese is a simple and tasty appetizer that can be served with crackers, celery, or French baguettes. It is also a great homemade food gift. The longer the cheese is left to marinate, the more flavourful it gets. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to make marinated cheese:

Ingredients:

• Olive oil
• White wine vinegar
• Fresh parsley
• Green onions
• Dried basil
• Salt
• Pepper
• Garlic
• Diced pimiento
• Cheddar cheese
• Cream cheese

Optional Ingredients:

• Lemon peel
• Red pepper flakes
• Fresh rosemary
• Black peppercorns
• Mozzarella
• Sun-dried tomatoes
• Oregano
• Sugar
• Roasted red peppers
• Balsamic vinegar
• Goat cheese
• Feta
• Gouda
• Havarti

Step 1: Prepare the Cheeses

Slice the cheddar cheese lengthwise, then cut crosswise to form squares. Repeat with the cream cheese. You can also cut the cheese into cubes.

Step 2: Create the Marinade

Combine the olive oil, vinegar, pimiento, parsley, green onions, garlic, basil, salt, and pepper in a jar with a tight-fitting lid. Seal the jar and shake vigorously to blend. You can also add other ingredients to the marinade, such as roasted red peppers, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, green onions, sugar, herbs, and spices.

Step 3: Marinate the Cheeses

Arrange the cheese slices in a shallow baking dish, alternating between cheddar and cream cheese. Pour the marinade over the cheese slices, cover, and refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight. The cheese can be marinated for up to two weeks. The longer it sits, the more flavourful it will be.

Step 4: Serve

Transfer the cheese slices to a serving platter, keeping the alternating pattern. Spoon some of the extra marinade over the top. Serve chilled with crackers, celery, or French baguette. Enjoy!

Can you freeze marinated cheese?

Marinated cheese is a simple and delicious appetizer that can be made with a variety of cheeses and herbs. But what happens when you have leftovers or want to make a large batch to enjoy later? Can you freeze marinated cheese?

The answer is a bit complicated. Technically, you can freeze marinated cheese, but it's important to consider the type of cheese used and how it will be used after freezing. Freezing can affect the texture and quality of cheese, and some cheeses are more susceptible to these changes than others.

Hard cheeses like cheddar, Monterey Jack, and Parmesan are the best options for freezing. They hold up well in the freezer and can still be melted after thawing, making them suitable for casseroles, mac and cheese, or grilled cheese sandwiches. However, their texture will become crumbly and mealy, and they may be harder to slice.

Soft cheeses, such as Camembert and Brie, as well as high-moisture cheeses like ricotta and cottage cheese, can be frozen but may not withstand freezing as well. Their texture will likely suffer, becoming more crumbly and dry. Frozen cream cheese may seem grainy, but it can still work well in baked goods.

When it comes to marinated cheese specifically, the herbs and aromatics added to the oil can further decrease the shelf life, as fresh produce contains water, providing an environment for bacteria to grow. Therefore, it is recommended to consume marinated cheese within two weeks when stored in the refrigerator.

If you decide to freeze marinated cheese, portion it into airtight containers or bags, removing as much air as possible. Freeze the cheese as quickly as possible to prevent the formation of large ice crystals, which can disrupt the structure of the cheese. Label the containers with the date, as frozen cheese is best used within two to three months, and harder cheeses like Parmesan can last a bit longer.

To thaw frozen marinated cheese, place it in the refrigerator for a few hours or overnight. It's important not to refreeze the cheese, as this will further affect its texture and quality. Keep in mind that frozen and thawed cheese is best used in cooked dishes where changes in texture are less noticeable.

In summary, while you can freeze marinated cheese, it may alter the texture and quality, especially for softer cheeses. Hard cheeses are more suitable for freezing and can still be melted after thawing, making them a better option for enjoying marinated cheese at a later time.

What to serve with marinated cheese

Marinated cheese is a great appetizer, especially for parties and get-togethers. It is best served with crackers, celery, or bread.

Crackers are a popular choice to serve with marinated cheese. You can use your favourite crackers, but some people prefer plain crackers to avoid overwhelming the flavour of the cheese.

Bread is another option. Marinated cheese can be served with slices of baguette, or a French baguette. Sourdough bread also works well, especially if you're looking to gift your marinated cheese.

If you want to avoid bread and crackers, celery is a great alternative. It adds a nice crunch and is a healthier option.

For a more filling option, you can serve marinated cheese with an antipasto-style spread. This includes items like different varieties of olives, marinated or pickled Italian vegetables, and other cheeses.

Frequently asked questions