Description
Creamy holiday antipasto log brings Italian-inspired elegance to seasonal gatherings. Packed with zesty olives, roasted peppers, and herbs, this festive appetizer delivers bold flavors that delight guests and spark conversation at any celebration.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 8 ounces (226 grams) cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) roasted red peppers, finely chopped and drained
- 1/4 cup (60 grams) Parmesan cheese, grated
Flavor Enhancers:
- 1/3 cup (80 milliliters) green and black olives, chopped
- 1/4 cup (60 milliliters) marinated artichoke hearts, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Garnish and Coating:
- 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) fresh parsley, finely chopped
- Fresh rosemary sprigs
- Cranberries
Instructions
- Blend cream cheese and selected ingredients in a medium mixing bowl, stirring thoroughly until the mixture achieves a uniform consistency with roasted red peppers, olives, artichoke hearts, Parmesan, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and black pepper evenly distributed.
- Position a large plastic wrap sheet on a flat surface, then carefully transfer the blended mixture onto the wrap, shaping it into a smooth, elongated log formation.
- Tightly encase the cheese log with the plastic wrap, ensuring a secure seal, and refrigerate for 2 hours or until the mixture becomes completely firm and set.
- Prepare a plate with finely chopped parsley spread across its surface, then gently unwrap the chilled cheese log and roll it methodically through the herb coating, applying light pressure to create an even, verdant exterior.
- Transfer the herb-encrusted cheese log to an elegant serving platter, enhancing its visual appeal by delicately arranging fresh rosemary sprigs and vibrant cranberries around the perimeter for a festive, eye-catching presentation.
- Accompany the antipasto log with an assortment of crisp crackers, toasted baguette slices, or fresh vegetable sticks to provide complementary textures and serving options for guests.
Notes
- Chill the cream cheese beforehand to ensure easier mixing and smoother texture.
- Drain roasted red peppers and artichoke hearts thoroughly to prevent excess moisture in the log.
- For a spicier version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or finely chopped jalapeños to the mixture.
- Make this appetizer ahead of time, as it develops richer flavors when refrigerated overnight.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Snacks
- Method: Refrigerating
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 8
- Calories: 134 kcal
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 210 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 3 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 30 mg