Festive Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log (Print Version)
# Ingredients:
→ For the Cheese Log
01 -
8 oz cream cheese (softened)
02 -
1/2 cup roasted red peppers (finely chopped and drained)
03 -
1/3 cup green and black olives (chopped)
04 -
1/4 cup marinated artichoke hearts (chopped)
05 -
1/4 cup Parmesan cheese (grated)
06 -
1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
07 -
1/4 tsp garlic powder
08 -
1/4 tsp black pepper
→ For Coating and Garnish
09 -
1/2 cup parsley (finely chopped, for coating)
10 -
Fresh rosemary sprigs (for garnish)
11 -
Fresh cranberries (for garnish)
→ For Serving (Optional)
12 -
Assorted crackers
13 -
Toasted baguette slices
14 -
Fresh vegetable sticks
# Instructions:
01 -
In a medium mixing bowl, blend the softened cream cheese with roasted red peppers, green and black olives, marinated artichoke hearts, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and black pepper. Ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed to create a smooth, flavorful mixture.
02 -
Place a large sheet of plastic wrap on a flat surface. Scoop the cheese mixture onto the plastic wrap and gently shape it into a log. Wrap the log tightly, ensuring it maintains its shape, and refrigerate it for at least 2 hours or until firm.
03 -
Spread the finely chopped parsley on a large plate. Once the cheese log has firmed up, unwrap it and roll it in the parsley, pressing gently to ensure an even coating.
04 -
Transfer the coated cheese log to a serving platter. Arrange fresh rosemary sprigs and cranberries around the log for a festive holiday presentation.
05 -
Serve the antipasto cream cheese log with an assortment of crackers, toasted baguette slices, or fresh vegetable sticks for dipping.
# Notes:
01 -
This Festive Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log combines Mediterranean flavors in an elegant appetizer that's perfect for holiday entertaining.
02 -
You can prepare this cheese log up to 3 days ahead - just keep it wrapped in plastic in the refrigerator and coat with parsley just before serving.
03 -
For a variation, try substituting the parsley coating with finely chopped nuts or dried herbs.
04 -
The log can be shaped into a ball instead if preferred, creating a festive cheese ball for your holiday table.