Name: Festive Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 2 h 20 min
Ingredients: 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

Description

This vibrant, no-cook appetizer combines the flavors of olives, cheeses, and herbs for a festive treat.

Ingredients

Scale

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

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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.

Notes

Ensure ingredients are well-prepped to achieve the right consistency and flavor blend.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Appetizer

Nutrition

Calories: 200 kcal
Sodium: 300 mg
Protein: 5 g