Marinated Tomato and Grilled Veggie Cheese Board
A simple cheese board consisting of marinated tomatoes, grilled veggies, bread, burrata cheese, and sweet fruits. An affordable way to create a beautiful and delicious meat and cheese board that takes almost no time to prepare and is the perfect appetizer for any party!
A simple cheese board consisting of marinated tomatoes, grilled veggies, bread, burrata cheese, and sweet fruits. An affordable way to create a beautiful and delicious meat and cheese board that takes almost no time to prepare and is the perfect appetizer for any party!
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 clove garlic minced or grated
- kosher salt and pepper
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh oregano
- crushed red pepper flakes
- 12 leaves fresh basil roughly chopped
- 2 1/2 cups mixed heirloom tomatoes halved or quartered
- 2 small zucchini or summer squash sliced or halved
- 2 bell peppers quartered
- 2-3 cheeses i use burrata and drunken goat
- assorted meats fresh fruits, grilled bread and/or crackers, for serving
- Carbohydrate 19.4244800109873 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Fat 26.56062002181 g
- Fiber 4.80860012245178 g
- Protein 2.80352000031613 g
- Saturated Fat 3.76923800301153 g
- Serving Size 1 1 recipe (304g)
- Sodium 171.500000015275 mg
- Sugar 14.6158798885355 g
- Trans Fat 0.865394000590615 g
- Calories 318 calories
Step-by-step
- In a glass jar, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, basil, oregano, thyme, garlic, and a pinch each of crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.
- Add the tomatoes to one bowl, and the peppers and zucchini to another. Toss the peppers and zucchini with 3 tablespoons of marinade. Add the remaining marinade to the tomatoes, tossing to combine. Allow the veggies to marinate for 1-2 hours or overnight in the fridge.
- Preheat the grill to high. Grill the peppers and zucchini until light grill marks appear, 3-4 minutes per side. If using, grill the bread at the same time.
- To assemble, arrange the cheeses on a large board. Arrange the grilled veggies, tomatoes, meats, and fruits around the cheese. Serve.
A Burst of Flavor: My Go-To Marinated Tomato and Grilled Veggie Cheese Board
As a busy working mom, finding time to prepare elaborate meals can be a challenge. That's why I adore quick and impressive appetizers like this marinated tomato and grilled veggie cheese board. It's the perfect solution for unexpected guests or a casual get-together, and honestly, it's become a staple in my own weeknight routine too. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and versatility. I can easily adapt it based on what's fresh at the market, what's leftover in my fridge, and what my family is craving.
The vibrant colors alone make this cheese board a feast for the eyes. The combination of sweet, juicy heirloom tomatoes, bursting with summery flavor after a quick marinade, and the slightly charred, smoky taste of the grilled zucchini and peppers is simply irresistible. I love the contrast between the textures – the soft, creamy burrata, the crisp grilled vegetables, and the satisfying crunch of the toasted bread. The best part? The whole thing comes together in minutes. The marinating time is the longest part, and even that can be as short as an hour if you're short on time. I often do a quick marinate while I'm prepping the rest of the meal or even let the veggies sit for a bit before getting started with the grilling.
Building Your Perfect Board: The beauty of a cheese board is its adaptability. The recipe suggests a few of my favorites – burrata, drunken goat cheese, assorted meats (prosciutto or salami are great options), and fresh fruit (peaches or figs are fantastic in the summer months). But feel free to experiment! Use whatever cheeses you enjoy, add nuts and olives for extra flavor and texture, or substitute different vegetables based on your preferences. I've even been known to add a few marinated artichoke hearts for a little extra tang! One of my favorite variations is to grill slices of peaches and add them to the board. The slight char compliments the creamy cheese and adds a touch of sweetness. Another great tip is to buy pre-sliced cheeses or meats to save time on prep. This is a lifesaver on busy days when you want something elegant but aren’t looking for an elaborate undertaking.
Beyond Appetizers: This cheese board is not just limited to appetizers. I often serve it as a light lunch or even a simple dinner, especially during warmer months. The combination of fresh ingredients and bold flavors makes it incredibly satisfying. It’s also fantastic for picnics or outdoor gatherings. Just pack everything up separately and assemble it on-site. It's the kind of food that tastes just as good (maybe even better!) at room temperature.
More Than Just Food: For me, this cheese board represents more than just a delicious meal. It’s about creating a welcoming and enjoyable atmosphere for family and friends. It's a reminder to slow down, savor the moment, and appreciate the simple pleasures in life. The act of carefully arranging the cheeses, veggies, and fruits is almost meditative, and the shared experience of enjoying the finished product with loved ones is priceless. So, the next time you're looking for a simple yet impressive appetizer or a light meal, give this marinated tomato and grilled veggie cheese board a try. I guarantee it will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen, too.
Serving Suggestions: This cheese board pairs beautifully with a crisp white wine or a light rosé. For a non-alcoholic option, sparkling water with a slice of lemon or lime adds a refreshing touch. Don't forget to grab some napkins, because this delicious board will be devoured quickly!
Variations:
- Spicy Kick: Add a few slices of jalapeño to the grilling mix for a spicy twist.
- Herby Delight: Incorporate fresh rosemary or thyme into the marinade.
- Sweet and Savory: Add some honey or balsamic glaze for an extra layer of flavor.
- Gourmet Touch: Use high-quality balsamic vinegar and olive oil for an elevated taste.
Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this recipe is surprisingly easy to master. It's a true testament to the fact that sometimes, the simplest things in life are the most satisfying. So gather your ingredients, fire up the grill, and get ready to impress yourself and your guests with this flavorful and visually stunning cheese board!
