One chilly December afternoon, as the snow danced outside my kitchen window, I decided to experiment with some nibbles for a holiday gathering. I reached into the pantry and found a treasure trove of colorful ingredients—sun-dried tomatoes glistening with flavor, olives with their briny charm, and roasted red peppers that promised a sweet warmth. With a block of cream cheese softening on the counter, I felt a spark of culinary inspiration!
I stirred those vibrant delights together, and before long, I had created a creamy, savory log that was as pleasing to the eye as it was to the palate. The aroma filled my kitchen, mingling with the scent of evergreens wafting in from the nearby tree lot. One taste, and I knew this would be a staple at every festive gathering. It’s loved for its creamy texture, burst of flavors, and the little surprises of crunch and zest in every bite. Just imagine the cozy scene: friends laughing, glasses clinking, and everyone reaching for that delightful antipasto log, a true crowd-pleaser they’ll keep coming back to!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to make: With just a few steps, you’ll impress everyone at your holiday gathering!
- Quick preparation: It only takes about 15 minutes of active work, plus chill time. Perfect for busy cooks!
- Healthful and hearty: Packed with wholesome ingredients, it’s a festive yet guilt-free treat.
- Flavorful bites: Each slice bursts with herby goodness and a hint of spice, making your taste buds dance!
- Perfect for sharing: This dish is designed for gatherings, encouraging laughter, conversation, and sharing.
- Versatile: Enjoy it with crackers, toast, or fresh veggies—whatever makes your heart happy!
Ingredients
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened: The creamy base for our log—allow it to warm to room temperature for easy mixing.
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, finely chopped: These provide a sweet-tart punch; don’t forget to pat them dry if they’re in oil!
- ½ cup black or green olives, finely chopped: Briny and bold, olives add a delightful saltiness—choose your favorite!
- ½ cup roasted red peppers, finely chopped: Their sweet, smoky flavor adds depth—try to use jarred for ease!
- ⅓ cup salami or pepperoni, finely chopped: For a meaty kick, use your preferred cured meat. It’s all about what you love!
- ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, grated: This brings a nutty sharpness; opt for fresh for the best flavor.
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped: Fresh herbs brighten up the log; feel free to substitute with basil if you wish!
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: This aromatic mix ties everything together; a must-have!
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder: Adds warm flavor—fresh garlic can work too, just be careful with the quantity!
- ½ teaspoon onion powder: A subtle sweetness that complements the cream cheese nicely.
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): For a little heat, adjust to your spice preference!
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: Freshly cracked is always the way to go for a fragrant kick.
- ¼ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste): Start with a little; remember, some ingredients are already salty!
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley or basil: For rolling the log and adding freshness—garnish makes everything prettier!
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped roasted red peppers: Extra flavor and color for the roll!
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped olives: More briny goodness for garnishing.
- 2 tablespoons chopped nuts (optional, for crunch): Add texture! Walnuts or almonds work beautifully.
Full recipe card is below.
How to Make It
Prepare the Mixture
In a large bowl, combine your softened cream cheese, finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes, olives, roasted red peppers, salami, Parmesan cheese, parsley, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, red pepper flakes (if you’re feeling spicy), black pepper, and salt. Using a spatula (or just good old hands!), mix well until everything is beautifully blended. The aromas will start to dance around—trust me, it’s a good sign!
Shape the Log
Once your mixture is well combined, grab a large piece of plastic wrap. Transfer the mixture onto it and, with gentle hands, shape it into a log. Wrap it tightly like a present and toss it in the fridge for at least 2 hours or overnight if time allows. This allows the flavors to marry beautifully and helps it firm up for slicing!
Garnish
Before you gather around the table, unveil that festive log! Roll it in a mixture of chopped parsley, red peppers, olives, and optional nuts for a vibrant touch. Press gently so they stick, creating a delicious and eye-catching exterior—everyone will be eager to dig in!
Serve
Place your beautiful antipasto log on a serving platter alongside your favorite crackers, toasted bread, or a fresh veggie platter. Slice into delightful rounds and prepare for all the compliments!
Pro Tips for Success
- Use room temperature cream cheese: It makes mixing a breeze and ensures a smooth texture.
- Tailor it to your taste: Feel free to swap in any deli meats or cheeses you love best!
- Don’t skip the chill time: Refrigerating helps the log hold its shape and intensifies the flavors.
- Presentation is key: A colorful platter invites guests, so arrange your accompaniments beautifully!
- Taste as you go: Adjust seasoning to your liking, ensuring it’s just perfect for your palate!
Flavor Variations
- Switch the meats: Try prosciutto, pancetta, or even a vegetarian option with more roasted veggies!
- Herb choices: Basil or chives can add a fresh twist instead of traditional parsley.
- Spicy kick: Consider mixing in diced jalapeños or swapping out regular olives for spicy ones!
Serving Suggestions
This log pairs beautifully with an array of snacks! Think crunchy crackers for that satisfying bite, toasted baguette slices slathered with a bit of butter, or fresh veggie sticks for a crisp contrast. For drinks, a nice chilled white wine or a fruity sparkling cider can elevate your gathering!
Make-Ahead & Storage
You can prepare this delightful log up to two days in advance. Simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the fridge. It should last about a week after made, but it rarely sticks around that long in the colder months—I can’t blame you if you snack on it!
Leftovers
If you happen to have some leftovers (though that’s quite rare!), chopping the log and adding it to a salad or pasta dish can bring it back to life in a whole new way! It’s also fantastic on a sandwich for a robust lunch.
Freezing
While I recommend enjoying this creation fresh, you can freeze the un-garnished log for up to a month. Wrap it tightly in plastic, then aluminum foil. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before garnishing and serving.
Reheating
You won’t need to reheat this dish, as it’s best enjoyed cold or at room temperature! If you ever find yourself needing to warm any toppings, just use a skillet over low heat for a few moments.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can skip the salami or pepperoni and add extra roasted veggies for a tasty vegetarian version.
Can I use flavored cream cheese?
Definitely! A garlic & herb cream cheese could add an additional layer of flavor; just adjust your seasonings accordingly!
How do I store any leftovers?
Keep the log in an airtight container or wrapped tightly; enjoy it within a week for the best taste.
What’s the best way to serve this?
Slice it into rounds and serve it on a pretty platter with assorted dippers—crackers, veggies, or bread are all wonderful choices.
Final Thoughts
As the holiday season envelops us in its warmth and cheer, I hope this Festive Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log finds its place at your gatherings. It’s not just about nourishing the body but also about bringing people together, sharing stories, and creating heartwarming memories. So gather your loved ones, fill your home with laughter, and enjoy each scrumptious bite! Cheers, my friends—enjoy every moment!
Happy cooking, from your friend in the kitchen, Chef Caroline.
Festive Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log
Ingredients
Cream Cheese Base
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened Allow it to warm to room temperature for easy mixing.
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, finely chopped Pat dry if they’re in oil.
- ½ cup black or green olives, finely chopped Choose your favorite for flavor.
- ½ cup roasted red peppers, finely chopped Opt for jarred for ease.
- ⅓ cup salami or pepperoni, finely chopped Use your preferred cured meat.
- ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, grated Fresh for the best flavor.
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped Fresh herbs brighten the log.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning Aromatic mix to tie everything together.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder Fresh garlic can work too but use cautiously.
- ½ teaspoon onion powder Complement the cream cheese nicely.
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes Optional for heat, adjust to preference.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper Freshly cracked is best.
- ¼ teaspoon salt Adjust to taste.
Garnish
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley or basil For rolling the log.
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped roasted red peppers Extra flavor and color.
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped olives More briny goodness.
- 2 tablespoons chopped nuts Optional; works beautifully with walnuts or almonds for crunch.
Instructions
Prepare the Mixture
- In a large bowl, combine softened cream cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, olives, roasted red peppers, salami, Parmesan cheese, parsley, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, red pepper flakes (if using), black pepper, and salt. Mix well until everything is blended.
Shape the Log
- Transfer the mixture onto a large piece of plastic wrap and shape it into a log. Wrap tightly and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
Garnish
- Before serving, roll the log in a mixture of parsley, red peppers, olives, and nuts for a vibrant touch. Press gently to adhere.
Serve
- Place the antipasto log on a platter with crackers, toasted bread, or fresh veggie sticks. Slice into rounds.