Description
The Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log is a festive and easy-to-make appetizer combining creamy cream cheese with savory antipasto ingredients like Italian deli meats, marinated peppers, and olives. This flavorful, colorful log is perfect for holiday gatherings, offering a delicious mix of textures and tastes that will delight any crowd.
Ingredients
Scale
Cream Cheese Base
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil or parsley, chopped
Antipasto Mix
- 1/2 cup salami, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup pepperoni, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup marinated roasted red peppers, finely chopped
- 1/3 cup kalamata olives, finely chopped
For Serving
- Assorted crackers or baguette slices
- Fresh basil leaves, chopped parsley, or grated Parmesan for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Antipasto Mix: Finely chop the salami, pepperoni, roasted red peppers, and kalamata olives into small, uniform pieces to ensure every bite is packed with flavor and texture.
- Soften and Flavor the Cream Cheese: Let the cream cheese sit at room temperature until soft, then mix in garlic powder, shredded mozzarella, and fresh herbs for a well-seasoned, creamy base.
- Combine Ingredients: Gently fold the chopped antipasto ingredients into the cream cheese mixture until everything is evenly distributed, making sure not to overmix.
- Shape the Log: Lay out a sheet of plastic wrap on your work surface and spoon the mixture onto it, shaping it into a tight log using the wrap to help create a smooth surface.
- Chill the Log: Wrap the log securely in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least two hours to firm up and allow the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Serve and Garnish: Unwrap the chilled log and transfer it to a serving platter. Sprinkle fresh herbs on top and arrange crackers or baguette slices around it for easy dipping.
Notes
- Ensure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for an easy, even mix and smooth texture.
- Chop antipasto ingredients into small, consistent pieces to distribute flavor evenly and improve presentation.
- Use plastic wrap firmly when shaping the log for a compact, neat shape that holds well.
- Refrigerate the log for at least two hours to allow flavors to meld and to firm up for better slicing.
- Add fresh herbs at the end for a vibrant pop of color and bright flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approx. 1 oz)
- Calories: 110
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 4.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
Keywords: Holiday appetizer, cream cheese log, antipasto, party appetizer, easy holiday recipe, crowd-pleaser