Print

Dill Pickle Marinated California Grapes and Cheese Recipe

4.8 from 89 reviews

This Dill Pickle Marinated California Grapes and Cheese recipe combines the natural sweetness of California grapes with the tangy brine of dill pickles and creamy dill Havarti cheese. Marinated with red onion and olive oil, and optionally garnished with fresh dill, this appetizer offers a refreshing, flavorful, and visually appealing dish perfect for gatherings or a light snack.

Ingredients

Scale

Marinade and Garnish

  • 1 1/4 cups juice from dill pickle jar
  • 3 tablespoons minced red onion
  • 1 1/2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
  • Pinch of crushed red pepper
  • Fresh dill leaves (optional garnish)

Main Ingredients

  • 3 cups whole California grapes
  • 1 (6 to 8-ounces) package dill Havarti cheese, cut into small bite-size cubes

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, combine the juice from the dill pickle jar, minced red onion, extra-virgin olive oil, and a pinch of crushed red pepper. Mix well to blend all the flavors.
  2. Marinate the Grapes and Cheese: Add the whole California grapes and bite-sized cubes of dill Havarti cheese into the marinade. Stir gently to ensure that all pieces are evenly coated with the mixture.
  3. Refrigerate: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the mixture into an airtight container. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together and the grapes to soak up the tangy pickle brine.
  4. Serve: Once marinated, transfer the grapes and cheese onto serving plates or use skewers for an elegant presentation. Garnish with fresh dill leaves if desired for an extra burst of herbal aroma.

Notes

  • This appetizer is a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors.
  • Use whole, firm California grapes for the best texture and taste.
  • The recipe is vegetarian and gluten-free, suitable for those dietary preferences.
  • Marinating longer than 1 hour can intensify the pickle flavor, so adjust marinating time to taste.
  • Fresh dill garnish enhances the presentation and adds fresh herbal notes.

Keywords: dill pickle marinade, California grapes, Havarti cheese, appetizer, vegetarian, gluten free, tangy snack, easy appetizer, no-cook recipe