Description
The Antipasto Italian Cheese Log is a delightful culinary creation that encapsulates the essence of Italian flavor in every bite.
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup chopped black or green olives
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella
- ¼ cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes
- ¼ cup finely chopped roasted red peppers
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ¼ tsp garlic powder
- ¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley or basil (for coating)
- Crackers (for serving)
- Breadsticks (for serving)
- Fresh vegetables (for serving)
Instructions
- To begin crafting your Antipasto Italian Cheese Log, start by dosing the mixing bowl with softened cream cheese. This is your base, and it should be at room temperature for easy blending. Add the shredded mozzarella, chopped olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and roasted red peppers to the bowl. Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and crushed red pepper flakes to enhance the flavor profile. Using a spatula or a hand mixer, blend the ingredients together until you achieve a smooth and creamy consistency. This mixture should be rich and aromatic, enticing you with its savory scents.
- Once your filling is perfectly mixed, it’s time to shape it into a log. Lay down a piece of plastic wrap on a flat surface, allowing enough room for rolling. Spoon the creamy mixture onto the center of the plastic wrap and begin to form it into a log shape. Fold the plastic wrap over the filling and gently roll it, sealing it tightly as you go. Make sure to twist the ends of the wrap to secure the mixture inside. This step not only shapes your cheese log but also helps it hold together when chilling.
- After shaping your cheese log, it’s essential to chill it in the refrigerator. Place the wrapped log in the fridge for at least 2 hours, allowing it to firm up. Chilling enhances the flavors as they meld together, providing a firmer texture that’s perfect for slicing. You can also prepare this cheese log a day in advance, making it a convenient option for busy schedules.
- After the cheese log has sufficiently chilled, it’s time to add a fresh layer of flavor. Unwrap the log from the plastic wrap and place it on a cutting board. On a plate, spread out your chopped fresh parsley or basil. Gently roll the log in the herbs, ensuring it’s coated evenly. This not only adds a vibrant color to your cheese log but also enhances its fresh aroma, inviting your guests to dig in.
- Your Antipasto Italian Cheese Log is now ready to serve! Transfer your beautifully coated cheese log onto a serving platter. Surround it with an array of crackers, breadsticks, and fresh vegetable sticks for a delightful appetizer spread. Depending on your preference, you can serve it chilled straight from the fridge or allow it to soften slightly at room temperature for easier spreading. Enjoy the compliments as your guests savor every delicious bite!
Notes
Let your cheese log sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before serving—it’ll be easier to spread. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week; this spread only gets better with time!
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
Nutrition
- Calories: 120 kcal
- Sodium: Variable based on added ingredients
- Protein: 5 g