Marinated Cheese Cubes

**Ingredients:**

– 1 pound (450g) of cheese (such as feta, mozzarella, or goat cheese), cut into cubes
– 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
– 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– 1 teaspoon whole black peppercorns
– 1 teaspoon whole mustard seeds
– 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
– Zest of 1 lemon
– Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)

**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Cheese:** Cut the cheese into bite-sized cubes and place them in a clean, sterilized jar.

2. **Make the Marinade:**
– In a small saucepan, combine the olive oil, garlic slices, rosemary, thyme, oregano, red pepper flakes, black peppercorns, mustard seeds, sea salt, and lemon zest.
– Warm the mixture over low heat for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the garlic is fragrant and the herbs are slightly crispy. Do not let the oil boil.

3. **Marinate the Cheese:**
– Pour the warm oil and herb mixture over the cheese cubes in the jar. Ensure the cheese is completely submerged in the oil.
– Seal the jar tightly and let it cool to room temperature.

4. **Refrigerate:**
– Once cooled, refrigerate the marinated cheese for at least 24 hours to allow the flavors to meld. For the best flavor, marinate for 2-3 days.

5. **Serve:**
– Before serving, let the marinated cheese come to room temperature.
– Serve the marinated cheese cubes with fresh herbs as a garnish, alongside crusty bread, crackers, or as part of a cheese platter.

### Tips:
– You can use different types of cheese depending on your preference. Firmer cheeses like feta and halloumi work particularly well.
– Experiment with different herbs and spices to suit your taste.
– The marinated cheese can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Ensure the cheese is always submerged in the oil to prevent spoilage.

Enjoy your delicious marinated cheese cubes! If you have any specific preferences or need more recipes, feel free to ask.