Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log
The Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log is a quick, flavorful, and visually stunning appetizer combining creamy cream cheese with savory antipasto ingredients. Perfect for holiday gatherings, this easy-to-make dish offers a vibrant mix of textures and tastes that delight guests and can be customized for various dietary preferences.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 8-10 servings
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: No-cook
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired
- Diet: Gluten Free (if served with gluten-free crackers or veggie sticks)
Ingredients
Base
- Cream cheese, softened (8 oz)
- Shredded Parmesan cheese (1/4 cup)
- Fresh herbs (basil or parsley), chopped (2 tbsp)
Antipasto Mix
- Marinated artichoke hearts, finely chopped (1/2 cup)
- Salami or pepperoni slices, finely chopped (1/2 cup)
- Kalamata olives, pitted and chopped (1/3 cup)
- Roasted red peppers, finely chopped (1/3 cup)
Serving
- Crackers or sliced baguette (to serve)
Instructions
- Soften the Cream Cheese: Leave the cream cheese out at room temperature for about 30 minutes until softened. This ensures it mixes and spreads smoothly.
- Chop and Mix Antipasto Ingredients: Finely chop the marinated artichoke hearts, salami or pepperoni, Kalamata olives, and roasted red peppers. In a bowl, combine these ingredients with the softened cream cheese, shredded Parmesan cheese, and chopped fresh herbs. Mix thoroughly to blend flavors evenly.
- Shape the Log: Place the mixture onto a large piece of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Using the wrap, tightly form the mixture into an 8-inch log. Wrap securely and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up and allow flavors to meld.
- Garnish and Serve: Once chilled, unwrap the cream cheese log. Add additional toppings like chopped herbs or extra olives for presentation. Serve with your choice of crackers or toasted baguette slices.
Notes
- Use room temperature cream cheese for smooth mixing and spreading.
- Choose high-quality antipasto ingredients for better flavor.
- Chill the log thoroughly for at least 1 hour to firm the shape and blend flavors.
- Prepare the log a day ahead to reduce stress on serving day.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt or pepper before chilling.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (about 2 oz)
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: antipasto, cream cheese log, appetizer, holiday appetizer, easy appetizer, party food, festive appetizer, gluten free option
Find it online: https://mealsbylina.com/holiday-antipasto-cream-cheese-log/
