Marinated Manchego Cheese

Irresistible Marinated Manchego with Pimiento Peppers on a Crisp Baguette

Welcome to a savory adventure with our delectable Marinated Manchego with Pimiento Peppers on a Crisp Baguette! This extraordinary dish celebrates the rich, nutty flavor of Spanish Manchego cheese, elevated by the vibrancy of pimiento peppers and a medley of spices. Perfect for a tapas-style appetizer or an indulgent snack, this recipe is sure to captivate anyone who savors it.

To achieve the best results, selecting high-quality ingredients is essential. Manchego cheese, rich and tangy, serves as the star ingredient, marrying perfectly with the tender sweetness of pimiento peppers. Extra-virgin olive oil, green onions, and shallots create a savory dressing that marries the flavors together, while cumin and a touch of kosher salt add aromatic complexity. For preparation, thinly slicing the cheese ensures an even marination, allowing each slice to soak in the dressing fully.

Begin by preparing the Manchego and arrange it with the pimiento peppers in a baking dish, topped with our flavorful dressing. Allowing it to chill for at least one hour will let the spices and oils infuse the cheese, unlocking a world of aromatic delight. When ready to serve, pair each cheesy, peppery bite with crisp, toasted baguette slices, offering a delightful contrast in texture that rounds out the dish.

Ingredients

• 10 oz Spanish Manchego cheese – Aged cheese that brings nutty, tangy flavors
• 3 green onions – Adds a mild oniony note that complements the Manchego
• 1 shallot – Provides a delicate sweetness and enhances the dressing
• ⅓ cup extra-virgin olive oil – Base for the aromatic dressing, rich and fragrant
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds (or ½ teaspoon ground cumin) – Offers warm, earthy undertones
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt – Enhances all the flavors without overpowering them
• ¼ teaspoon pepper – Brings a subtle heat
• 1 (4 oz) jar sliced pimiento peppers – Bright, sweet, and visually appealing
• 1 Bakery baguette – Crispy, chewy vessel for serving the marinated cheese

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Cheese: Begin by carefully removing the rind from the Manchego cheese. Use a sharp knife to slice the cheese thinly. Aim for about ⅛-inch thick slices to enable maximum surface area for marination.
2. Slice the Aromatics: Thinly slice the green onions and shallot, as this will allow them to integrate seamlessly into the dressing.
3. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the extra-virgin olive oil, sliced green onions, shallots, cumin seeds, kosher salt, and pepper until well combined. The goal is to create a harmonious blend where each flavor is distinct yet complementary.
4. Assemble the Marination: In a 13x9-inch baking dish, lay out the cheese slices in a single layer. Place a strip of pimiento pepper on top of each cheese slice. This layering ensures each bite delivers a taste of every element.
5. Add the Dressing: Drizzle the prepared dressing evenly over the cheese and peppers, allowing the liquid to seep through the layers. Cover the dish with plastic wrap or a lid.
6. Chill and Marinate: Place the covered dish in the refrigerator to marinate for at least 1 hour, or better yet, overnight. This time in the fridge helps meld the flavors.
7. Slice the Baguette: Just before serving, slice the baguette into ½-inch thick pieces. Toast them lightly in an oven or toaster until crisp, being cautious not to over-toast.
8. Serve: Arrange the baguette slices on a platter and top each with a slice of marinated Manchego and a strip of pimiento. Drizzle any remaining dressing from the baking dish over the cheese for an extra burst of flavor.

Tips for Troubleshooting If Something Goes Wrong with the Recipe

• Too Thick Dressing: If the dressing seems too thick, thin it with a little more olive oil until it reaches the desired consistency.
• Too Salty: Counteract the saltiness by adding a touch of lemon juice to the dressing.
• Soggy Baguette: Ensure the baguette slices are thoroughly toasted before adding the cheese to prevent sogginess.
• Cumin Overload: If the cumin flavor is too overpowering, balance it by adding a small amount of chopped fresh parsley to the dish.
• Peppers Too Slippery to Place: Pat the pimiento strips dry with paper towels to give them more grip on the cheese slices.

Ideas for Pairing with the Recipe

To complement your Marinated Manchego creation, consider these delightful pairings that will round out your tasting experience:

• Side Dishes: Partner the cheese atop baguette slices with a fresh, crisp salad drizzled with a zesty lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
• Beverages: Pair with a Spanish Rioja wine or a chilled glass of sangria, which will echo the flavors of this dish while providing refreshment.
• Desserts: End your meal with a light dessert of fresh berries drizzled with honey, accentuating the savory elements of the Manchego.
• Garnishes: Consider adding a sprinkle of toasted almonds over the served cheese and baguette for an additional nutty note and textural contrast.

How to Store Properly

• Refrigeration: If you have leftovers, place the cheese and pimiento in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Ensure the cheese is adequately covered in the dressing to maintain moisture.
• Freezing: Freezing is not recommended for this dish as it may alter the texture of the cheese and peppers.
• Baguette Storage: Keep leftover baguette slices in a sealed plastic bag at room temperature for up to 2 days, but toast them slightly before reuse for better texture.

FAQs

• Can I use a different type of cheese?
  
  
• What if I can’t find pimiento peppers?
  
  
• Is there a gluten-free option for the baguette?
  
  
• How do I prevent the cheese from becoming too hard after chilling?
  
  

While Manchego provides a unique flavor, you may substitute with an aged gouda or white cheddar for a variation in taste.

Roasted red bell peppers work as a perfect substitute, offering a similar sweetness and texture.

Consider using gluten-free bread as an alternative, toasting it for the same crispiness desired with the traditional baguette.

Take the marinated cheese out of the refrigerator at least 15 minutes prior to serving to allow it to soften to room temperature.