Festive Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log Recipe

Introduction

This Festive Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log is a vibrant and flavorful appetizer perfect for any celebration. Packed with sun-dried tomatoes, olives, roasted peppers, and salami, it’s a creamy and savory treat that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.

Ingredients

• 16 oz cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, finely chopped
• ½ cup black or green olives, finely chopped
• ½ cup roasted red peppers, finely chopped
• ⅓ cup salami or pepperoni, finely chopped
• ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley or basil (for garnish)
• 2 tablespoons finely chopped roasted red peppers (for garnish)
• 2 tablespoons finely chopped olives (for garnish)
• 2 tablespoons chopped nuts (optional, for crunch and garnish)

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, olives, roasted red peppers, salami, Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, red pepper flakes (if using), black pepper, and salt. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
2. Step 2: Transfer the mixture onto a large piece of plastic wrap. Shape it into a tight log, then wrap it securely with the plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow it to firm up.
3. Step 3: Just before serving, prepare the garnish by mixing chopped fresh parsley or basil, roasted red peppers, olives, and optional chopped nuts in a shallow dish. Roll the cream cheese log in this mixture, pressing gently to help it adhere and create a festive look.
4. Step 4: Place the finished log on a serving platter. Serve with crackers, toasted bread, or fresh vegetables for an inviting appetizer. Slice and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

• For a vegetarian version, omit the salami and add extra roasted peppers or chopped artichoke hearts for additional flavor.
• Try different types of olives, such as Kalamata or Castelvetrano, to vary the taste and color.
• If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce or omit the red pepper flakes.
• Use a combination of fresh herbs like basil and parsley for a brighter, fresher garnish.
• Chop nuts like walnuts or pecans finely to add a pleasant crunch without overwhelming the texture.

Storage

Store the cream cheese log tightly wrapped in plastic wrap in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best flavor and texture, consume within this time. When ready to serve again, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes to soften slightly for easier slicing.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare this cream cheese log ahead of time?

Yes, this appetizer actually improves after resting in the fridge overnight as the flavors meld together nicely. Just be sure to keep it wrapped tightly to prevent odors from other foods.

What can I serve with this antipasto cream cheese log?

This log pairs well with a variety of crackers, toasted baguette slices, or fresh veggie sticks like cucumber, bell pepper, and carrots. It’s perfect for a holiday party or casual get-together.

Festive Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log Recipe

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4.7 from 202 reviews

This Festive Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log is a flavorful and visually appealing appetizer perfect for holiday gatherings. It combines creamy cream cheese with sun-dried tomatoes, olives, roasted red peppers, salami, and Parmesan cheese, seasoned with Italian herbs and spices. Rolled into a log and chilled, then garnished with fresh herbs and crunchy nuts, this no-cook dish is easy to prepare and sure to impress your guests.

• Author: Rita
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
• Yield: 12 servings 1x
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: Italian-American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Mixture

• 16 oz cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, finely chopped
• ½ cup black or green olives, finely chopped
• ½ cup roasted red peppers, finely chopped
• ⅓ cup salami or pepperoni, finely chopped
• ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)

Garnish

• ¼ 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

1. Prepare the mixture: In a large bowl, combine softened cream cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, olives, roasted red peppers, chopped salami, Parmesan cheese, fresh parsley, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, red pepper flakes if using, black pepper, and salt. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are fully integrated into a consistent mixture.
2. Shape the log: Transfer the mixture onto a large piece of plastic wrap. Using your hands, shape it into a firm log. Wrap tightly with the plastic wrap to maintain shape, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow it to firm up and the flavors to meld.
3. Garnish: Unwrap the chilled cream cheese log and roll it gently in a mixture of chopped fresh parsley or basil, finely chopped roasted red peppers, olives, and optional chopped nuts. Press gently to ensure the garnish adheres well, creating a festive and colorful appearance.
4. Serve: Place the decorated log on a serving platter accompanied by crackers, toasted bread, or fresh vegetable slices. Slice into rounds and enjoy as a delicious appetizer or snack at your holiday celebration.

Notes

• This recipe is best prepared ahead of time to allow flavors to meld and the log to firm properly.
• Chopped nuts add a delightful crunch but can be omitted for a nut-free version.
• Adjust seasoning such as salt and red pepper flakes based on your taste preference.
• Serve with a variety of crackers or crunchy vegetables to pair perfectly with the creamy texture.
• Store leftovers refrigerated, tightly wrapped, for up to 3 days.

Keywords: antipasto, cream cheese log, holiday appetizer, party food, no-cook recipe, Italian flavors, festive appetizer, easy appetizer