This Antipasto Cream Cheese Log is a yummy blend of cream cheese and your favorite antipasto goodies like olives, peppers, and herbs. It’s perfect for snacking or party trays!
Rolling it up is super fun, and I always end up sneaking bites before serving! Pair it with crackers or veggies for a tasty treat that everyone loves. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cream Cheese: The star ingredient! Use full-fat for richer taste, but low-fat works too. If you’re dairy-free, try a vegan cream cheese alternative that spreads easily.
Olives: Green and Kalamata bring great flavor, but you can substitute with any brined olives you prefer. Black olives are milder, and I sometimes use them for a different twist.
Roasted Red Peppers: These add sweetness! You can use jarred ones or roast your own. If you can’t find them, sweet bell peppers or sun-dried tomatoes can work instead.
Salami/Pepperoni: Totally optional, but they add a nice touch. If avoiding meat, try chopped artichoke hearts or extra veggies for texture.
Fresh Herbs: Rosemary and parsley are great, but feel free to use any fresh herbs like basil or thyme based on what you have. Dried herbs can also substitute in a pinch.
What’s the Best Way to Shape and Chill the Log?
Shaping the log properly is key to making it look good. Here’s how to do it:
- Use room-temperature cream cheese for easier mixing. It should be soft enough to blend in all your other ingredients.
- When forming the log, use plastic wrap to help shape it tightly. This prevents air pockets and helps the log hold its form.
- Chill for at least 2 hours; longer is better! This allows the flavors to meld and the log to firm up, making it easier to slice.
Make sure you let it sit for a few minutes at room temperature before serving; this enhances the flavor and softens the cream cheese for easier spreading.
Antipasto Cream Cheese Log
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 16 oz (450 g) cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup pitted green olives, sliced
- 1/2 cup pitted Kalamata olives, sliced
- 1/2 cup roasted red peppers, chopped
- 1/4 cup pepperoncini, sliced
- 1/4 cup salami or pepperoni, finely chopped (optional)
- 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped (plus extra sprigs for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herb seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Crackers or sliced baguette, for serving
- Additional garnishes: cherry tomatoes, extra olives, cured meats (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and at least 2 hours to chill in the refrigerator. It’s a quick mix and roll process, then just let it rest in the fridge. Ideal for any gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mixing the Base:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, garlic powder, dried Italian herb seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This will be the delicious base of your log!
2. Adding the Flavorful Ingredients:
Now it’s time to fold in all those yummy add-ins! Add the sliced green and Kalamata olives, chopped roasted red peppers, pepperoncini, salami or pepperoni (if you’re using it), sun-dried tomatoes, chopped parsley, and rosemary. Gently mix until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated into the cream cheese mixture.
3. Shaping the Log:
Take a large piece of plastic wrap or parchment paper and lay it flat on your counter. Scoop the cream cheese mixture onto the center, shaping it into a rectangular log about 8 inches long. This is where the fun begins!
4. Rolling Up the Log:
Carefully use the plastic wrap or parchment paper to roll the mixture into a tight cylinder. Make sure to twist the ends tightly to seal it, like a candy wrapper. Once rolled, place it in the refrigerator to chill for at least 2 hours or until firm. This helps it hold its shape!
5. Preparing to Serve:
After chilling, unwrap the cream cheese log and place it on a nice serving platter. Make it look pretty by garnishing the top with extra rosemary sprigs and surrounding it with cherry tomatoes, olives, and slices of cured meats if you’re using them.
6. Cutting and Enjoying:
Slice the cream cheese log into about 1/2-inch thick pieces, and arrange them on the platter. Serve with crackers, sliced baguette, or fresh vegetable sticks for a delightful appetizer experience!
Enjoy this colorful, flavorful antipasto cream cheese log as a delightful addition to your next gathering!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Yes! While cream cheese is traditional for this recipe, you can substitute with goat cheese or ricotta for a different flavor profile. Just make sure whatever cheese you choose is spreadable for the best texture.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
To make this dish vegetarian, simply omit the salami or pepperoni. You can replace them with additional vegetables like artichokes or more olives for added flavor and texture!
Can I Prepare This in Advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the cream cheese log up to two days in advance. Just keep it wrapped tightly in the fridge until you’re ready to serve. Let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before slicing for easier serving.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. You can slice and enjoy the log again with crackers or fresh veggies!
