Marinated Cheese Slices

Slices of cheddar and cream cheese marinated in a rich mix of seasonings are bursting with flavor.

Each year Tone's sponsors various divisions in the Iowa State Fair's Food Department.  This recipe is a past winner! 

Makes:  25 servings

PREP TIME: 30 minutes
MARINATE  TIME:  8 hours

1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
1/2 cup white wine vinegar
1 tablespoon dried parsley
3 tablespoons minced green onion
3 tablespoons sun dried tomatoes (oil packed, drained), finely chopped
1 teaspoon sugar
3/4 teaspoon dried basil
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 jar (2 ounces) diced pimiento, drained
1 package (8 ounces) sharp cheddar cheese
1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, chilled

Combine oil, vinegar, parsley, onion, tomatoes, sugar, basil, salt, pepper, garlic powder and pimientos in a jar with tight fitting lid.  Shake vigorously.

Cut each block of cheese lengthwise, then crosswise into 1/4-inch slices.  Arrange slices in a shallow baking dish, standing slices on edge.  Pour marinade over cheese slices.  Cover and marinade in refrigerator a minimum of 8 hours.

Transfer cheese slices to a serving platter, arranging cheddar and cream cheese slices alternately.  Serve with bagel chips or crackers.
 

Nutrition information per serving (1 1-inch slice): calories 83; total fat 8 g; saturated fat 4 g; cholesterol 19 mg; sodium 104 mg; total carbohydrate 0 g; dietary fiber 0 g; protein 3 g.