Description
This festive holiday antipasto cream cheese log is a flavorful and colorful appetizer perfect for holiday parties and gatherings. Cream cheese is combined with chopped salami, roasted red peppers, olives, sun-dried tomatoes, fresh parsley, and seasoning, then chilled and coated in extra parsley or nuts for a delightful presentation. Serve with crackers or fresh vegetables for a crowd-pleasing starter.
Ingredients
Scale
Antipasto Cream Cheese Log Ingredients
- 2 (8 oz) blocks cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup chopped salami or pepperoni
- ½ cup chopped roasted red peppers, drained
- ½ cup chopped green olives or pimento-stuffed olives
- ¼ cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes (packed in oil)
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for added richness)
- Extra parsley or chopped nuts for coating (optional)
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a medium bowl, mix the softened cream cheese with chopped salami, roasted red peppers, olives, sun-dried tomatoes, fresh parsley, garlic powder, black pepper, and olive oil if using. Stir thoroughly to evenly distribute all ingredients.
- Shape the Log: Transfer the mixture onto a piece of plastic wrap. Use the wrap to shape the mixture into a tight log form.
- Chill the Log: Wrap the log tightly in the plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow it to firm up and flavors to meld.
- Prepare for Serving: Remove the log from the refrigerator, unwrap it, and roll it in extra chopped parsley or finely chopped nuts for a decorative and festive finish.
- Serve: Place the antipasto cream cheese log on a serving platter and offer with crackers, crostini, or fresh vegetables as desired.
Notes
- This appetizer can be prepared 1 to 2 days ahead of time and refrigerated to save preparation time on the day of your event.
- For a vegetarian version, omit the salami and increase the amount of chopped roasted peppers, olives, and sun-dried tomatoes.
- This recipe is ideal for holiday parties, potlucks, or as part of a charcuterie board spread.
