When it comes to festive gatherings, there’s nothing quite like a show-stopping appetizer to impress your guests. Enter the Holiday Cheese Log with Pesto and Sun-Dried Tomatoes. This deliciously vibrant cheese log features layers of creamy cheese and flavorful pesto, topped with tangy sun-dried tomatoes and rolled in a crunchy walnut-parsley coating. It’s not only a feast for the eyes but also a delight for your taste buds! Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or attending a potluck, this cheese log will undoubtedly steal the spotlight.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the ability to prepare it ahead of time. This means less stress on your special day. Just whip it up, let it chill, and when it’s time to serve, you’ve got an appetizer that looks and tastes gourmet without hours in the kitchen. Pair it with assorted crackers and fresh veggies like cucumber slices and cherry tomatoes, and you’ve got a balanced offering that pairs beautifully with both wines and cocktails.
Moreover, this Holiday Cheese Log packs an impressive flavor punch, thanks to the fresh basil pesto and the richness of cream cheese. The sun-dried tomatoes add a lovely tanginess that cuts through the creaminess. Combined with the texture and crunch from the walnuts and parsley, it’s an appetizer that will have everyone coming back for more. So let’s dive into why you’ll love making—and eating—this fantastic cheese log!
Why You’ll Love This Holiday Cheese Log with Pesto and Sun-Dried Tomatoes
This cheese log stands out for several reasons:
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of creamy cheese, zesty pesto, and tangy sun-dried tomatoes creates a complex flavor profile that excites the palate.
- Effortless Preparation: This recipe is simple enough to prepare in advance, allowing you to enjoy your time with guests rather than being stuck in the kitchen.
- Festive Presentation: Its vibrant colors and unique shape make it a stunning centerpiece on your appetizer table.
- Customizable: You can easily swap in different nuts or herbs to suit your taste, making it flexible for varying flavor preferences.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before you start making your Holiday Cheese Log, it’s essential to set up your kitchen and gather the necessary tools. Aim for a clear workspace, as a tidy kitchen often helps the cooking process flow smoothly. You’ll need a large mixing bowl and a hand mixer or electric whisk to beat the cream cheese until it’s fluffy. Additionally, have a flat surface ready for assembling the log, as well as plastic wrap to help shape the cheese mixture.
When gathering your ingredients, ensure everything is at room temperature, especially the cream cheese, as it will blend more easily. A chopping board is also crucial for finely chopping the sun-dried tomatoes, walnuts, and parsley. And don’t forget to prepare a serving platter where the cheese log will be beautifully displayed alongside an assortment of crackers and fresh vegetables for a colorful and appealing presentation.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to create your delicious holiday cheese log:
- 16 ounces of cream cheese, softened to a spreadable consistency
- ½ cup of fresh basil pesto
- ½ cup of sun-dried tomatoes, finely chopped
- ¼ cup of Parmesan cheese, finely grated
- ¼ cup of toasted walnuts, finely chopped for crunch
- 2 tablespoons of fresh parsley, finely chopped for color
- Assorted crackers for serving
- Fresh vegetables, such as cucumber slices, cherry tomatoes, or carrot sticks for serving
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Base
Start by placing the softened cream cheese into a large mixing bowl. Using a hand mixer, beat the cream cheese on medium speed until it becomes smooth and fluffy. This will ensure your base is creamy and easy to spread later on.
Step 2: Add the Flavor Layers
Now, divide the cream cheese mixture evenly into two separate bowls. In one bowl, fold in half a cup of basil pesto until it’s thoroughly blended into the cream cheese. In your second bowl, mix in the finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes and the grated Parmesan cheese. This step allows you to create two flavorful layers that will define your cheese log.
Step 3: Assemble the Log
On a flat surface, lay down a large sheet of plastic wrap. Starting with the sun-dried tomato mixture, spread it out into a rectangle that’s about ½ inch thick. This layer serves as the robust base flavor that will anchor the pesto layer. Next, gently spread the pesto mixture evenly over the sun-dried tomato layer, making sure it’s smooth and covers the entire base.
Step 4: Roll the Log
Using the plastic wrap, carefully start to roll the layered cheese mixture into a log shape. The wrap acts as a guide, helping maintain the log’s shape and keeping the layers intact. Make sure to twist the ends of the plastic wrap tightly to secure the log so that it maintains its form while chilling.
Step 5: Chill
Place the log in the refrigerator and chill it for at least two hours. This chilling period allows the flavors to meld and ensures the cheese log is firm enough for slicing later.
Step 6: Coat the Log
After chilling, unwrap the cheese log. In a shallow dish, combine the finely chopped walnuts and parsley. Roll the chilled cheese log in this mixture, pressing gently to ensure that the coating adheres to the surface evenly, providing a beautiful crunch.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Finally, place the cheese log onto a serving platter. Surround it elegantly with assorted crackers and fresh vegetables, creating a colorful and inviting presentation. Serve it chilled or at room temperature, allowing your guests to enjoy the flavors at their peak.
Variations
Feel free to play around with the flavors in your Holiday Cheese Log! Here are some variations you might enjoy:
- Protein: Consider adding cooked crumbled bacon or finely diced prosciutto for an extra savory twist.
- Vegetables: You can incorporate finely chopped bell peppers or roasted red peppers into the cheese layers for a colorful surprise.
- Spices: Spice up the pesto by adding roasted garlic or crushed red pepper for a bit of heat if desired.
Cooking Notes
Here are a few essential tips to ensure your cheese log turns out perfectly:
- Ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature. It blends more easily and provides a creamier finish.
- Toasting the walnuts enhances their flavor. Lightly toast them in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few minutes until fragrant, but be careful not to burn them.
- If your cheese log seems too soft after chilling, consider freezing it for a slightly longer time to achieve the desired firmness before coating.
- Experiment with different nuts, such as pecans or almonds, for a unique flavor and crunch.
Serving Suggestions
To make the most of your Holiday Cheese Log, consider these serving ideas:
- Pair it with a variety of flavored crackers—herb-infused or whole grain complement the log beautifully.
- Offer a selection of vibrant fresh vegetables. Cherry tomatoes, carrot sticks, and cucumber slices add freshness and texture.
Tips
Here are some extra tips to ensure your cheese log is a hit:
- Make the cheese log a day ahead. It not only saves time but also allows flavors to meld perfectly.
- If desired, drizzle a bit of balsamic glaze over the log before serving for an additional flavor boost.
- Experiment with the herbs in the coating. You can substitute the parsley for chives or thyme for a different herbal note.
- To make it gluten-free, serve with gluten-free crackers or veggie sticks instead.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes (chilling time only)
- Total Time: 2.5 hours (including chilling)
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approx. 200 per serving
- Protein: 5g
- Sodium: 300mg
FAQs
How far in advance can I make this Holiday Cheese Log?
You can prepare this cheese log up to two days in advance. Just ensure it’s tightly wrapped and stored in the refrigerator.
Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
Yes, low-fat cream cheese can be substituted, but the texture and creaminess might be slightly different.
What can I use instead of sun-dried tomatoes?
If you don’t have sun-dried tomatoes, consider using roasted red peppers or finely chopped olives for a different flavor.
How should I store leftovers?
Wrap leftover cheese log tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Holiday Cheese Log with Pesto and Sun-Dried Tomatoes is the perfect appetizer for your festive gatherings. Its combination of flavors, textures, and vibrant presentation will make it a hit among your guests. The ease of preparation allows you to spend more time enjoying the company of loved ones and less time in the kitchen. Don’t hesitate to experiment with the ingredients or offering ideas to suit your gathering’s specific tastes. Try it out and experience the magic of this delectable cheese log — your guests will undoubtedly be asking for the recipe!
Print
Holiday Cheese Log with Pesto and Sun-Dried Tomatoes
- Total Time: 2.5 hours
- Yield: Approx. 200 per serving
Description
The Holiday Cheese Log is the perfect appetizer for your festive gatherings. Its delicious combination of flavors and inviting presentation will impress your guests.
Ingredients
- 16 ounces of cream cheese, softened to a spreadable consistency
- ½ cup of fresh basil pesto
- ½ cup of sun-dried tomatoes, finely chopped
- ¼ cup of Parmesan cheese, finely grated
- ¼ cup of toasted walnuts, finely chopped for crunch
- 2 tablespoons of fresh parsley, finely chopped for color
- Assorted crackers for serving
- Fresh vegetables, such as cucumber slices, cherry tomatoes, or carrot sticks for serving
Instructions
- Start by placing the softened cream cheese into a large mixing bowl. Using a hand mixer, beat the cream cheese on medium speed until it becomes smooth and fluffy.
- Now, divide the cream cheese mixture evenly into two separate bowls. In one bowl, fold in half a cup of basil pesto until it’s thoroughly blended into the cream cheese. In your second bowl, mix in the finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes and the grated Parmesan cheese.
- On a flat surface, lay down a large sheet of plastic wrap. Starting with the sun-dried tomato mixture, spread it out into a rectangle that’s about ½ inch thick. Next, gently spread the pesto mixture evenly over the sun-dried tomato layer.
- Using the plastic wrap, carefully start to roll the layered cheese mixture into a log shape. Make sure to twist the ends of the plastic wrap tightly to secure the log.
- Place the log in the refrigerator and chill it for at least two hours.
- After chilling, unwrap the cheese log. In a shallow dish, combine the finely chopped walnuts and parsley. Roll the chilled cheese log in this mixture.
- Finally, place the cheese log onto a serving platter. Surround it elegantly with assorted crackers and fresh vegetables. Serve it chilled or at room temperature.
Notes
This cheese log can be made two days in advance.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes (chilling time only)
- Category: Appetizers
Nutrition
- Calories: Approx. 200 per serving
- Sodium: 300 mg
- Protein: 5 g