Marinated Cheese

1/2 cup olive oil  
1/2 cup white wine vinegar  
1 (2 oz.) jar diced pimento, drained  
3 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley  
3 tablespoon minced green onions  
3 cloves garlic, minced  
1 teaspoon sugar  
3/4 teaspoon dried whole basil  
1/2 teaspoon salt  
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground pepper  
1 (8-oz.) 5½ x 2 x 1 inch block sharp cheddar cheese, chilled  
1 (8-oz.) package cream cheese, chilled Fresh parsley sprig (optional)
 
Combine first 10 ingredients in a jar; cover tightly, and shake vigorously. Set marinade mixture aside.

Cut block of Cheddar cheese in half lengthwise. Cut crosswise into ¼-inch thick slices; set aside. Repeat procedure with cream cheese. Arrange cheese slices alternately in a shallow baking dish, standing slices on edge. Pour marinade over cheese slices. Cover and marinate in refrigerator at least 8 hours.

Transfer cheese slices to a serving platter in the same alternating fashion, reserving marinade. Spoon marinade over cheese slices. Garnish with fresh parsley sprig, if desired. Serve with assorted crackers.

Yield: 16 appetizer servings