The holiday season is a time for gatherings, laughter, and, of course, feasts packed with mouthwatering flavors. This Festive Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log serves as the ultimate no-cook appetizer, bringing together a colorful mix of olives, peppers, herbs, and cheeses for a visually stunning and delectable dish. When you’re pressed for time yet want to impress, this appetizer is your go-to option. With its vibrant flavors and creamy texture, it’s perfectly suited for Christmas, New Year’s, or any festive occasion that calls for delightful finger foods. Even on short notice, this antipasto log promises to shine on any table, offering a feast for both the eyes and the palate.

Imagine slicing into a log that oozes creamy deliciousness mingled with the bold taste of antipasto — that’s precisely what you’ll get! The contrast of flavors from the savory olives, the sharpness from the cheese, and the fresh hints of herbs create an irresistible bite. Plus, the simplicity of assembly means you get to spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the company of those you cherish. This dish not only screams holiday cheer but does so with minimal effort, making it a recipe you’ll love to prepare and share.

Why You’ll Love This Festive Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log

The Festive Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log isn’t just visually appealing, it has a host of features that make it a must-try for any holiday event.

Easy to Prepare: Minimal prep work and zero cooking required.
Bright and Flavorful: A perfect blend of creamy, savory, and fresh ingredients.
Flexible Ingredients: Allows for personal customization with optional add-ins.
No-Fuss Presentation: Makes a stunning centerpiece on your appetizer table.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Start by preparing your kitchen space and ensuring you have all the necessary tools at hand. The preparation for the Festive Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log is straightforward but keeping your space organized will make the process smoother.

Firstly, gather your ingredients and prep your workspace by clearing a large working surface. A cutting board, mixing bowl, and a reliable knife are essential tools for chopping and dicing the antipasto elements like olives, peppers, and herbs. It’s also wise to have paper towels close by to pat dry any excess moisture from these ingredients, ensuring the cream cheese log holds its shape.

Next, you’ll need a mixing bowl to combine the acidity and flavors of the olives, peppers, and cheese with the creamy base. Ensure your cream cheese is adequately softened, as this will help mix everything smoothly without lumps. A spatula will come in handy for folding ingredients evenly, preventing over-mixing where the log can lose its appealing texture.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to bring together this festive dish:

16 oz cream cheese, softened
0.5 cup pimento-stuffed green olives, chopped
0.5 cup kalamata or black olives, chopped
0.33 cup roasted red peppers, finely diced
0.25 cup marinated artichoke hearts, finely chopped (optional)
0.25 cup sharp cheddar or provolone cheese, diced small
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
1 tablespoon chives or green onion, chopped
1 teaspoon garlic powder
0.5 teaspoon Italian seasoning
0.25 teaspoon black pepper
Extra chopped olives, peppers, cheese, and fresh rosemary, for garnish
Optional: 0.25 cup diced salami or pepperoni
Optional: chopped sun-dried tomatoes or capers

Instructions

Step 1: Prepping the Ingredients

Begin by finely dicing all antipasto elements including the olives, peppers, artichokes, and herbs. Place them on a paper towel to absorb any excess liquid, which is crucial for achieving the right consistency in your cheese log.

Step 2: Cream Cheese Base

In your mixing bowl, blend the softened cream cheese until it’s smooth. Add in garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and black pepper, stirring until the spices are uniformly mixed through, giving your base a rich, herby undertone.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Carefully mix in the chopped antipasto ingredients with the cream cheese base. Gently fold in until just combined to maintain a good texture, ensuring all flavors are evenly distributed.

Step 4: Forming the Log

Place a sheet of plastic wrap or parchment on your surface. Transfer the mix to the center and use the wrap to mold it into a log shape. Ensure even thickness throughout for a consistent presentation.

Step 5: Chill for Best Flavor

Wrap the log tightly by twisting the ends and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight. The chilling allows the flavors to meld together and ensures easy slicing when it’s time to serve.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Just before serving, unwrap your cheese log and place it on a platter. Sprinkle extra chopped olives, peppers, cheese, and freshly cut rosemary over the top for an enticing, professional look. Serve with a variety of crackers, crostini, or veggie sticks.

Variations

Elevate the flavors of your antipasto log to fit different tastes or dietary preferences:

Protein: Add chopped salami or pepperoni for a heartier log, or consider prosciutto slices for an elegant twist.
Vegetables: Include sun-dried tomatoes for a sweet yet tangy touch or swap out peppers for diced zucchini for a fresh crunch.
Spices: Enhance the log with a dash of red pepper flakes or smoked paprika for added heat and smokiness.

Cooking Notes

Chilling is Key: Don’t skip the chilling step as it allows flavors to blend and the log to firm up, making it easier to slice.
Ingredient Quality: Fresh and high-quality ingredients will noticeably elevate the flavor—consider locally sourced cheeses or organic herbs.

Serving Suggestions

Pairings: Serve with a selection of crackers or toasted baguette slices for a satisfying snack or starter.
Drink Matches: Complement with dry white wines or sparkling water with herbs for a refreshing pairing.

Tips

Storage: Keep any unused portions wrapped tightly in plastic; they will remain delicious for up to three days in the fridge.
Presentation: A sprig of rosemary or thyme can beautify the platter and infuse a bolder herbal note.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: Approx. 200 per serving
Protein: 5g
Sodium: 300mg

FAQs

Can I make the cheese log in advance?

Absolutely! This dish is excellent for advance prep, and allowing it to chill overnight enhances the flavors.

What do I pair with the cheese log?

Crispy breadsticks, assorted crackers, or a selection of fresh vegetables make perfect companions.

What if I’m out of cream cheese?

In a pinch, mascarpone can be a luxurious alternative, although it will alter the flavor slightly.

How long will leftovers last?

Properly stored in the refrigerator, the cheese log retains its deliciousness for up to three days.

Conclusion

In summary, the Festive Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log is a versatile and vibrant addition to any holiday spread, effortlessly combining the appeal of antipasto and the creaminess of a cheese log. Its no-cook nature saves you time while still making a deliciously sophisticated impression on your guests. Feel free to get creative with additional flavors, experimenting with ingredients and garnishes to suit your festive mood. Not only will this dish delight your guests, but it’s also likely to become a staple in your holiday recipe collection. We encourage you to try it out, share your thoughts in the comments, and perhaps even inspire others to partake in its delectable charm!