Description
This Mouthwatering Antipasto Cream Cheese Log is the perfect festive appetizer, combining creamy cheese with savory meats, tangy sun-dried tomatoes, olives, roasted peppers, and a medley of Italian herbs. It’s easy to prepare, make ahead, and serves as a flavorful centerpiece for any holiday or party table.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes
- 1/2 cup black or green olives
- 1/2 cup roasted red peppers
- 1/3 cup salami or pepperoni, chopped
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Coating Ingredients
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley or basil
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped roasted red peppers
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped olives
- 2 tablespoons chopped nuts (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the mixture: In a large bowl, thoroughly combine the softened cream cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, olives, roasted red peppers, chopped salami, grated Parmesan cheese, fresh parsley, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, optional red pepper flakes, black pepper, and salt. Mix until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Shape the log: Place the mixture onto a large piece of plastic wrap. Using your hands, carefully form it into a uniform log shape. Wrap tightly with the plastic wrap to hold its form.
- Chill to set: Refrigerate the wrapped log for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow it to firm up and let flavors meld perfectly.
- Add the coating: Before serving, unwrapped the chilled log and roll it in a mixture of chopped fresh parsley or basil, finely chopped roasted red peppers, olives, and optional chopped nuts. Gently press the coating onto the surface to adhere well.
- Serve and enjoy: Transfer the antipasto cream cheese log to a serving platter. Arrange with an assortment of crackers, toasted breads, or fresh vegetables. Slice and serve as a delicious appetizer.
Notes
- For best flavor, refrigerate overnight to allow full melding of the antipasto flavors.
- You can substitute salami with pepperoni or omit for a vegetarian version (adjusting other ingredients accordingly).
- Use softened cream cheese to ensure easy mixing and smooth texture.
- The optional red pepper flakes add a subtle heat; adjust according to taste preference.
- Chopped nuts in the coating add a pleasant crunch but can be omitted for nut allergies.
- This appetizer pairs excellently with a variety of crackers and crunchy fresh vegetables for dipping.
