Description
This vibrant and savory Antipasto Cream Cheese Log is bursting with Mediterranean-inspired flavors sun-dried tomatoes, roasted red peppers, olives, and a touch of salami or pepperoni, all wrapped into creamy cheese perfection. Rolled in colorful toppings, it’s as beautiful as it is delicious an instant holiday showstopper that’s perfect for entertaining!
Ingredients
Scale
For the Cream Cheese Log:
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup black or green olives, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup roasted red peppers, finely chopped
- 1/3 cup salami or pepperoni, finely chopped (optional)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
For Garnish:
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley or basil
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped roasted red peppers
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped olives
- 2 tablespoons chopped nuts (optional, for crunch)
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare the Mixture
In a large bowl, combine softened cream cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, olives, roasted red peppers, salami (if using), Parmesan, parsley, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, red pepper flakes, black pepper, and salt. Mix until creamy and fully combined. - Step 2: Shape the Log
Spoon the mixture onto a large sheet of plastic wrap and shape into a log (about 8 inches long). Wrap tightly and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight, until firm. - Step 3: Garnish
Mix the garnish ingredients in a shallow dish. Unwrap the chilled cheese log and gently roll in the garnish, pressing slightly so it adheres. - Step 4: Serve & Enjoy
Place on a serving platter with crackers, toasted baguette slices, or veggie sticks. Serve cold or slightly softened for the best texture.
Notes
- Make Ahead: Prepare up to 3 days in advance and keep wrapped in the fridge.
- Flavor Boost: Drizzle with balsamic glaze before serving for a sweet-savory finish.
- Variation: Swap cream cheese for goat cheese for a tangier twist.
- Presentation Idea: Serve on a wooden board with antipasto skewers, grapes, and rosemary sprigs for a festive look.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: Mediterranean-Inspired, Holiday
Nutrition
- Serving Size: ~1/10th of log
- Calories: ~190
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 410mg
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
Keywords: holiday appetizer, cream cheese log, antipasto log, make-ahead appetizer, festive cheese log