Festive Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log

This Festive Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log is the perfect blend of Mediterranean flavors and holiday spirit, making it an ideal appetizer for any gathering. Its elegant presentation coupled with delicious ingredients ensures that it will be a hit at your next party, holiday dinner, or festive get-together. With its creamy texture and vibrant colors, this dish stands out and is sure to impress your guests.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: This recipe requires only 15 minutes of prep time, making it a quick addition to your holiday menu.
• Flavorful Fusion: Combining cream cheese with roasted red peppers, olives, and artichokes creates a delightful mix of flavors that everyone will love.
• Versatile Serving Options: Pair it with assorted crackers, toasted baguette slices, or fresh vegetables for dipping, catering to various tastes.
• Elegant Presentation: The garnishes of parsley, rosemary, and cranberries give this dish a festive touch that enhances any table setting.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: This cheese log can be prepared in advance and refrigerated until you’re ready to serve, saving you time on the day of your event.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes preparing the Festive Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log even easier. Here are some essential tools you’ll need.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Plastic wrap
• Serving platter
• Knife for chopping

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A good-sized mixing bowl allows you to easily combine all ingredients without making a mess.
• Plastic wrap: This is crucial for shaping the cheese log properly and keeping it firm while chilling in the fridge.
• Serving platter: A nice platter enhances presentation when serving your cheese log to guests.

Ingredients

This Festive Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log combines Mediterranean flavors with a festive presentation for an elegant and delicious party appetizer.

For the Cheese Log

• 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
• 1/2 cup roasted red peppers (finely chopped and drained)
• 1/3 cup green and black olives (chopped)
• 1/4 cup marinated artichoke hearts (chopped)
• 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese (grated)
• 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1/4 tsp garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

For Coating and Garnish

• 1/2 cup parsley (finely chopped, for coating)
• Fresh rosemary sprigs (for garnish)
• Fresh cranberries (for garnish)
• Assorted crackers
• Toasted baguette slices
• Fresh vegetable sticks

How to Make Festive Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log

Step 1: Mix the Ingredients

In a medium mixing bowl, blend the softened cream cheese with roasted red peppers, green and black olives, marinated artichoke hearts, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and black pepper. Ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed to create a smooth, flavorful mixture.

Step 2: Shape the Log

Place a large sheet of plastic wrap on a flat surface. Scoop the cheese mixture onto the plastic wrap and gently shape it into a log. Wrap the log tightly, ensuring it maintains its shape. Refrigerate it for at least 2 hours or until firm.

Step 3: Coat with Parsley

Spread the finely chopped parsley on a large plate. Once the cheese log has firmed up, unwrap it and roll it in the parsley. Press gently to ensure an even coating.

Step 4: Prepare for Serving

Transfer the coated cheese log to a serving platter. Arrange fresh rosemary sprigs and cranberries around the log for a festive holiday presentation.

Step 5: Serve with Dippers

Serve the antipasto cream cheese log with an assortment of crackers, toasted baguette slices, or fresh vegetable sticks for dipping. Enjoy!

How to Serve Festive Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log

The Festive Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log is not just a treat for the palate but also for the eyes. Presenting it well enhances the festive spirit of any gathering, making it an ideal centerpiece for your appetizer spread.

With Assorted Crackers

• Variety is key: Offer different types of crackers such as whole grain, water crackers, and flatbreads. Each adds unique textures and flavors that complement the cream cheese log.

On Toasted Baguette Slices

• Crispy delight: Serve the cheese log on toasted baguette slices for a crunchy contrast. The warm bread enhances the creaminess of the log.

With Fresh Vegetable Sticks

• Healthy crunch: Pair with carrot, celery, and bell pepper sticks for a fresh, healthy option. This adds color and nutrition to your platter.

Garnished with Rosemary and Cranberries

• Festive touch: Arrange fresh rosemary sprigs and bright cranberries around the cheese log. This adds a pop of color and a seasonal feel to your presentation.

As Part of a Charcuterie Board

• Perfect pairing: Include meats like prosciutto and salami alongside cheeses and olives. This creates a delightful grazing table for guests to enjoy.

How to Perfect Festive Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log

To achieve the best results with your Festive Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log, keep these tips in mind:

• Use room temperature cream cheese: It blends more easily with other ingredients, resulting in a smoother texture.
• Chop ingredients finely: Smaller pieces of roasted red peppers, olives, and artichokes mix better into the cream cheese.
• Experiment with seasonings: Adjust Italian seasoning or add herbs like basil or oregano for personalized flavor.
• Refrigerate thoroughly: Allow the log to chill fully before serving to maintain its shape when sliced.
• Make ahead of time: Prepare the cheese log a day in advance. It allows flavors to meld beautifully.
• Serve at room temperature: Take it out of the fridge about 30 minutes before serving for optimal flavor and texture.

Best Side Dishes for Festive Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log

Complement your Festive Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log with these delightful side dishes that enhance your appetizer spread.

1. Caprese Skewers: Cherry tomatoes, basil leaves, and mozzarella balls drizzled with balsamic glaze make a fresh addition.
2. Stuffed Mushrooms: Baked mushrooms filled with herb-infused breadcrumbs add hearty flavors that pair well with creamy dips.
3. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, garlic, and basil brings an Italian flair that resonates with antipasto themes.
4. Spinach Artichoke Dip: A warm and cheesy dip served with tortilla chips or pita bread complements the flavors of your cheese log.
5. Deviled Eggs: Classic deviled eggs spiced up with herbs or bacon bits offer richness that balances lighter appetizers.
6. Fruit Platter: A selection of seasonal fruits like grapes, figs, or apples provides sweetness that contrasts nicely with savory dishes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your Festive Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log, be mindful of these common mistakes. Avoiding these will ensure a perfect appetizer every time.

• Ignoring ingredient quality: Using low-quality cream cheese or olives can affect flavor. Always choose fresh and high-quality ingredients for the best results.

• Not softening the cream cheese: If you skip softening the cream cheese, the mixture may be difficult to blend. Make sure to let it sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before mixing.

• Overmixing the ingredients: Overmixing can lead to a mushy texture. Blend just until combined to maintain some chunkiness from the olives and peppers.

• Skipping refrigeration: Failing to refrigerate the log for enough time can result in a messy presentation. Allow at least 2 hours in the fridge for it to firm up properly.

• Neglecting garnishes: Garnishes add visual appeal and flavor. Don’t forget fresh herbs and cranberries for that festive touch!

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• The Festive Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log will last up to 5 days in the fridge.

Freezing Festive Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then place in a freezer-safe container.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months; however, freezing may alter the texture slightly upon thawing.

Reheating Festive Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap in foil and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.

• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate and heat in short bursts of 15 seconds until warm; avoid overheating.

• Stovetop: Heat in a non-stick pan over low heat, turning occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I customize my Festive Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log?

You can customize your log by adding different herbs, spices, or even nuts like pine nuts or walnuts. Feel free to experiment with various flavors!

Can I make this appetizer ahead of time?

Absolutely! This recipe is great for making ahead of time. Prepare it a day or two before your gathering and store it in the fridge.

What can I serve with the Festive Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log?

Pair the log with assorted crackers, toasted baguette slices, or fresh vegetable sticks. These options provide great dippers that complement its flavors well.

Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?

Yes! The Festive Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log is vegetarian-friendly as it contains no meat products.

Final Thoughts

The Festive Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log is not only visually stunning but also packed with flavor. It’s perfect for holiday gatherings or any party where you want to impress guests. Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients to make it uniquely yours! Enjoy sharing this delightful appetizer with friends and family!