Description
This Festive Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log is a colorful and flavorful appetizer perfect for holiday gatherings. Cream cheese blended with sharp cheddar and a variety of chopped olives, roasted red peppers, and marinated artichokes creates a creamy, savory spread. Garnished with fresh rosemary and cranberries, it adds an elegant touch to any festive table. Serve it chilled alongside crackers or fresh vegetables for a crowd-pleasing starter.
Ingredients
Scale
Base
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded sharp white cheddar or provolone
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic or 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Antipasto Mix-ins
- 1/3 cup green olives, chopped
- 1/3 cup kalamata olives, chopped
- 1/4 cup roasted red peppers, chopped
- 1/4 cup marinated artichokes, chopped
Garnish
- Fresh rosemary sprigs
- Cranberries
Instructions
- Soften cream cheese: Let the cream cheese sit at room temperature for 30 minutes until it becomes soft and easily mixable.
- Prepare antipasto ingredients: Roughly chop the green olives, kalamata olives, roasted red peppers, and marinated artichokes. Drain them well to avoid excess moisture in the cheese log.
- Mix base ingredients: In a bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded sharp white cheddar (or provolone), chopped fresh parsley, minced garlic (or garlic powder), and crushed red pepper flakes if using.
- Fold in antipasto mix: Gently fold the chopped olives, peppers, and artichokes into the cheese mixture until evenly distributed, taking care not to overmix.
- Shape and chill: Transfer the cheese mixture onto a piece of plastic wrap, shape it into a log, and wrap it tightly. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or preferably overnight to allow the flavors to meld and the log to firm up.
- Unwrap and serve: Before serving, unwrap the cheese log and place it on a serving board.
- Garnish: Decorate the log with fresh rosemary sprigs, additional chopped olives, roasted red peppers, and fresh cranberries to enhance its festive appearance.
- Serve: Accompany with crackers, crostini, or fresh vegetable sticks for dipping and spreading.
Notes
- Use room temperature cream cheese for easier mixing and smoother texture.
- Drain antipasto ingredients thoroughly to prevent the cheese log from becoming watery.
- Allowing the log to chill overnight enhances the melding of flavors.
- Feel free to substitute cheddar with provolone or another firm cheese based on preference.
- Optional crushed red pepper flakes add a subtle heat, adjust or omit as desired.
- Serve with a variety of crackers and fresh veggies to please all guests.
- Keep the log wrapped and refrigerated until just before serving to maintain freshness.
