Marinated Cheese Appetizers

So you are all probably thinking the same thing that I did when I first looked at this recipe. "Marinated cheese??" What is that? Well, I couldn't help making these. I was just so curious on how they would taste. With the sweet red peppers and the savory balsamic vinegar, you have a burst of flavor you probably never expected. I also believe the certain cheese I found really helped make these tiny little bites so fantastic. I went to Trader Joe's (my most favorite store) and I couldn't find just cheddar cheese, but I did find their Unexpected Cheddar Cheese. The label said it had hints of parmesan. I decided to go a little out of the box, and I'm glad I did because this cheese is probably one of the best I have ever had. Tangy, yet smooth with a hint of salty parmesan. Yum! Then when you combine it with creamy cream cheese and let it sit overnight with a flavor full marinade you have a "Party in Your Mouth"! I took these beauties to a potluck at work and they gave it that nickname. :) We realized if we paired these with nice glass of deep red wine, life would be complete!

I definitely plan on making these again, they were quick and so versatile. The ingredients are so interchangeable. I am already thinking of ways I can change it up!

Marinated Cheese Appetizers

adapeted from TasteofHome

Ingredients:

2 blocks (8 oz) cheddar cheese*

1 block (8 oz) reduced-fat cream cheese, softened

3/4 cup chopped roasted sweet red pepper

1/2 cup olive oil

1/4 cup white wine vinegar

1/4 cup balsamic vingar

3 tablespoons chopped green onions

1 tablespoon dried parsley (or 3 tablespoons fresh, chopped)

2 teaspoons dried basil (or 2 tablespoons fresh, chopped)

1 tablespoon sugar

3 garlic cloves, minced

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon pepper

toasted sliced french bread or assorted crackers

Directions:

1. Slice each block of cheese into twenty 1/4in slices. Cut block of cheese into 18 slices; sandwich between cheddar slices, using a knife to spread evenly and smooth the sides. Place in 13x9in baking dish in grouped blocks. 
2. In a small bowl, combing the roasted peppers, oil, vinegars, onions, herbs, sugar, garlic, salt, and pepper; pour ove cheese.
3. Cover and refrigerate overnight, turning once. Drain excess marinade. Serve wit h bread or crackers.

Makes about 2 pounds. 

*If possible, go to Trader Joe's and find their Unexpected Cheddar Cheese with hints of Parmesan. It is smooth and tangy, I could have eaten just a block of that!