Marinated Cheese

I had a few requests for this the other night. It has been one of my go to recipes for years. And I use "my" loosely - as it came from Southern Living. Enjoy!

Marinated Cheese

1/2 Cup Olive Oil

1/2 Cup White Wine Vinegar

3 Tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

3 Tablespoons minced green onions

1 Teaspoon Sugar

3/4 Teaspoon dried basil

1/2 Teaspoon salt

1/2 Teaspoon Pepper

3 Cloves garlic, minced

1 (2 oz) jar diced pimiento, drained

1 block sharp Cheddar cheese, chilled

1 (8oz) package cream cheese

Garnish:  fresh parsley sprigs

Combine first 10 ingredients in jar; cover tightly, and shake vigorously. Set aside.

Cut block of Cheddar in half lengthwise. Cut cross-wise into 1/4-inch-thick slices. Repeat procedure with cream cheese. Arrange cheese slices alternately in shallow baking dish, standing on edges. Pour marinade over cheese slices. Cover and marinade for at least 8 hours.

Transfer cheese slices to a serving platter in same alternate fashion, reserving marinade. Spoon marinade over cheese slices. Garnish, if desired. Serve with assorted crackers.

Makes: 12 to 16 appetizer servings

Hint: I like to place cream cheese in freezer for 20 - 30 minutes before slicing.