Festive Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log Recipe: A Jolly Twist

Whipping up a festive holiday antipasto cream cheese log brings delightful surprise to any gathering.

Colorful ingredients dance together, creating a vibrant appetizer that sparks conversation.

Herbs and spices blend seamlessly, crafting a memorable starter perfect for celebrations.

Guests will adore the rich, creamy texture mixed with zesty Mediterranean flavors.

Olives, roasted peppers, and crisp herbs create a delectable spread that looks as amazing as it tastes.

Crisp crackers or fresh bread make ideal companions for this elegant appetizer.

You can totally wow everyone with this simple yet impressive dish that screams festive cheer.

Storage Guidelines For Festive Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log

• Store the cream cheese log tightly wrapped in plastic wrap or an airtight container for up to 5 days in the refrigerator. Keep away from strong-smelling foods to prevent flavor absorption.
• Wrap the log securely in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
• Bring the log to room temperature for 30 minutes before serving. Gently pat with paper towels to remove excess moisture and refresh the herbs and olive oil drizzle.
• If the log seems slightly dry after storage, drizzle with fresh olive oil and sprinkle with additional chopped parsley to revive its appearance and flavor.

FAQs On Festive Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log

• Can I make this antipasto log ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare this cream cheese log up to 2-3 days in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. This actually helps the flavors develop and intensify.

• Is this recipe vegetarian-friendly?

Yes, this antipasto log is vegetarian. It contains cream cheese, roasted red peppers, olives, and seasonings, making it perfect for vegetarian guests at your gathering.

• What if I don't have Italian seasoning?

No problem! You can substitute with a mix of dried basil, oregano, thyme, and rosemary to create a similar flavor profile. Just use equal parts of each herb.

Why Festive Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log Is A Party Starter

• Craft with Ease: Perfect for home cooks of all skill levels, this recipe requires minimal culinary expertise and basic kitchen tools.
• Party-Perfect Appetizer: Ideal for holiday gatherings, game nights, and potluck events where guests can enjoy a delicious shared dish.
• Customize and Experiment: Easily adapt the recipe by swapping ingredients or adding personal touches like different herbs or cheese variations to suit your taste preferences.
• Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare this cream cheese log in advance, allowing you to reduce stress during party planning and spend more time with guests.

Ingredients For Festive Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log

• Cream Cheese: A smooth and creamy base that provides a rich and tangy foundation for the antipasto log.
• Roasted Red Peppers: Sweet and smoky peppers that add vibrant color and depth of flavor to the dish.
• Olives: Briny and salty ingredients that contribute a Mediterranean-inspired taste profile.

• Garlic Powder, Italian Seasoning: Aromatic spices that enhance the overall savory character of the cream cheese log.
• Salt, Pepper: Essential seasonings that balance and intensify the other flavors.

• Olive Oil, Parsley, Parmesan Cheese: Fresh toppings that add a finishing touch of brightness, herbal notes, and extra richness to the appetizer.
• Crackers, Baguette Slices, Vegetable Sticks: Complementary serving options that provide a crunchy and versatile base for enjoying the cream cheese log.

How To Make Festive Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log

Step 1: Blend Creamy Base

In a medium mixing bowl, mix softened cream cheese with roasted red peppers, olives, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir thoroughly until all ingredients are smoothly combined and create a uniform mixture.

Step 2: Shape Delightful Log

Transfer the mixed blend onto plastic wrap or parchment paper. Use your hands or a spatula to carefully shape the mixture into a smooth, even log. Press gently to ensure the log is compact and well-formed.

Step 3: Chill and Develop Flavors

Wrap the log tightly in plastic wrap, securing the ends. Place in the refrigerator for minimum 2 hours. This resting period allows the flavors to meld together and helps the log maintain its shape.

Step 4: Prepare Gorgeous Presentation

Remove the log from refrigerator and unwrap carefully. Place on a beautiful serving platter, creating an inviting display for guests.

Step 5: Add Finishing Touches

Drizzle the log with olive oil for extra richness. Sprinkle generously with fresh chopped parsley. Optional: Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese for an additional flavor boost.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

• Crispy crackers
• Sliced baguette
• Fresh vegetable sticks

Invite guests to dive in and savor this delectable holiday appetizer!

Pro Tips For Festive Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log

• Swap out cream cheese for dairy-free alternatives like cashew or almond-based spreads to accommodate vegan or lactose-intolerant guests.
• Chop roasted red peppers and olives finely to ensure even distribution and a smoother texture throughout the log.
• Prepare the log a day ahead to intensify flavors and allow ingredients to blend perfectly.
• Add extra crunch by rolling the exterior in chopped toasted pine nuts or finely crushed pistachios before serving.
• Experiment with different herb combinations like fresh thyme or basil to create unique flavor profiles for various occasions.

Creative Twists For Festive Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log

• Mediterranean Blast: Replace roasted red peppers with sun-dried tomatoes, add crumbled feta cheese, and sprinkle with dried oregano for a Greek-inspired version.
• Spicy Southwest Remix: Mix in diced jalapeños, chopped cilantro, and replace Italian seasoning with chili powder and cumin for a zesty southwestern kick.
• Smoky Bacon Lover's Edition: Fold in crispy chopped bacon bits, incorporate smoked paprika, and top with extra crumbled bacon for a rich, savory experience.
• Herb Garden Sensation: Swap Italian seasoning for fresh chopped herbs like basil, thyme, and chives, then garnish with additional fresh herb sprinkles for a bright, aromatic profile.

Best Pairings For Festive Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log

• Pair Perfectly with Crisp White Wine: Select a crisp, acidic white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio that cuts through the creamy richness of the cheese log and complements its herbal notes.
• Create Mediterranean Tapas Spread: Accompany the cream cheese log with kalamata olives, sun-dried tomatoes, roasted artichoke hearts, and thin slices of prosciutto for an authentic Mediterranean-inspired appetizer experience.
• Match with Sparkling Bubbles: Choose a dry prosecco or champagne to enhance the festive mood, its effervescence cleansing the palate between bites and adding a celebratory touch to the appetizer.

Festive Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log Recipe

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4.7 from 16 reviews

• Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
• Yield: 8 1x

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Description

Holiday magic meets creamy delight in this spectacular Festive Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log, blending zesty Italian flavors with seasonal cheer. Rich cream cheese embraces tangy olives, herbs, and savory meats, promising a crowd-pleasing appetizer you’ll crave at every gathering.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients:

• 8 ounces (226 grams) cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup (60 milliliters) grated Parmesan cheese

Herbs and Seasonings:

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/4 cup (15 grams) fresh parsley, chopped

Vegetables and Garnish:

• 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) roasted red peppers, finely chopped and drained
• 1/3 cup (80 milliliters) green and black olives, chopped
• 1/2 tablespoon (7.5 milliliters) olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Serving Suggestions:

• Crackers
• Bread
• Vegetable sticks

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Instructions

1. Blend softened cream cheese with roasted red peppers, chopped olives, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper in a mixing bowl until uniformly combined.
2. Shape the mixture into a cylindrical log using plastic wrap or parchment paper, ensuring a compact and smooth surface.
3. Refrigerate the log for 2 hours at 40°F to allow flavors to develop and structure to set firmly.
4. Remove plastic wrap and transfer the chilled log to a decorative serving platter.
5. Enhance the presentation by drizzling extra virgin olive oil across the surface.
6. Garnish generously with finely chopped fresh parsley and optional grated Parmesan cheese.
7. Accompany the antipasto log with an assortment of crisp crackers, sliced baguette, or crunchy vegetable crudités for elegant dipping.

Notes

• Ensure cream cheese is completely softened at room temperature for smooth, easy mixing without lumps.
• Drain roasted red peppers and olives thoroughly to prevent excess moisture that could make the log runny.
• Customize the herb blend by experimenting with fresh herbs like basil or thyme for enhanced flavor complexity.
• Make it gluten-free by serving with gluten-free crackers or fresh vegetable crudités for a healthier alternative.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Category: Appetizer, Snacks
• Method: Blending
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 8
• Calories: 234 kcal
• Sugar: 1 g
• Sodium: 420 mg
• Fat: 22 g
• Saturated Fat: 7 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 3 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 6 g
• Cholesterol: 30 mg