Festive Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log Recipe

Hello, food enthusiasts! The holiday season is the perfect time to impress your guests with delicious and eye-catching appetizers. This Festive Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log is not only easy to make but also bursting with savory flavors and vibrant colors, making it the centerpiece of any gathering. Whether you’re hosting a Christmas dinner or a cozy winter party, this recipe will add a festive touch to your table. Let’s dive in and create a dish that’s both delightful and irresistible!

Introduction

The Festive Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log is a versatile and flavorful appetizer that combines creamy textures with tangy, savory ingredients. Inspired by the traditional antipasto platter, this dish incorporates elements like roasted red peppers, olives, and marinated artichoke hearts into a creamy cheese base. The addition of fresh parsley and decorative garnishes like rosemary sprigs and cranberries makes it a visually stunning centerpiece that’s sure to wow your guests. Serve it with crackers, toasted baguette slices, or crisp vegetable sticks for an unforgettable start to your holiday festivities.

Ingredients

To prepare this festive and flavorful appetizer, you’ll need the following ingredients:

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 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 cup parsley, finely chopped (for coating)
Fresh rosemary sprigs and cranberries (for garnish)

These ingredients work together to create a rich, savory spread with layers of flavor, perfect for any occasion.

How to Make Festive Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log

Follow these steps to create your own stunning Festive Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log:

Combine the Ingredients: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, roasted red peppers, chopped olives, marinated artichoke hearts, grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
Shape the Log: Lay a large piece of plastic wrap on a flat surface. Scoop the cheese mixture onto the center of the plastic wrap and use your hands to shape it into a log. Wrap the log tightly and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until it becomes firm.
Prepare the Coating: Spread the finely chopped parsley on a large plate. Once the cheese log has chilled and firmed up, unwrap it and roll it in the parsley, pressing gently to ensure an even coating.
Garnish and Serve: Transfer the cheese log to a serving platter. Garnish with fresh rosemary sprigs and cranberries for a festive holiday touch. Serve with an assortment of crackers, toasted baguette slices, or fresh vegetable sticks.

Helpful Tips for the Perfect Antipasto Cheese Log

Softening the Cream Cheese: Allow the cream cheese to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before mixing. This ensures a smooth, creamy texture.
Customizing the Flavors: Feel free to add your favorite antipasto ingredients, such as sun-dried tomatoes, capers, or even diced salami, for a personalized twist.
Make Ahead: This recipe can be prepared a day in advance, allowing you to focus on other party preparations. Simply refrigerate the wrapped log and coat it in parsley just before serving.

Cooking Tips

Shaping the Log: Use the plastic wrap to help shape the cheese mixture into a neat log. If needed, you can adjust the shape after refrigerating to ensure it’s even.
Perfect Garnish: The fresh parsley not only adds color but also enhances the flavor. Be generous with the coating to achieve an attractive presentation.
Serving Size: Slice the log into smaller portions for individual servings or leave it whole for guests to slice themselves.

Serving Suggestions

The Festive Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log pairs beautifully with a variety of accompaniments:

Crackers: Choose a mix of savory, whole grain, and herbed crackers to complement the flavors of the cheese log.
Baguette Slices: Toasted slices of French baguette provide a crispy base that enhances the creamy texture of the cheese.
Vegetables: Serve with an array of fresh vegetable sticks, such as celery, carrot, or bell pepper, for a refreshing crunch.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Calories: 210
Carbohydrates: 3g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g
Monounsaturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 40mg
Sodium: 340mg
Potassium: 150mg
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 2g
Vitamin A: 15%
Vitamin C: 8%
Calcium: 10%
Iron: 5%

This appetizer is rich and indulgent, offering a delightful blend of creamy and savory flavors.

Storage and Leftovers

Refrigerate: Wrap any leftovers tightly in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freeze: For longer storage, freeze the cheese log before rolling it in parsley. Wrap it securely in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator before coating and serving.

Reinventing Leftovers: Spread leftover slices on toast or use as a flavorful filling for wraps or sandwiches.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use low-fat cream cheese? Yes, low-fat cream cheese works well, but the texture may be slightly less creamy.

What other herbs can I use for coating? Fresh dill, basil, or chives are great alternatives to parsley for a unique flavor profile.

How can I make it spicier? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or finely chopped jalapeños to the cheese mixture for a spicy kick.

Related Recipes

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Conclusion

The Festive Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log is the ultimate appetizer for any festive occasion. Its creamy texture, bold flavors, and elegant presentation make it a standout dish that’s easy to prepare yet incredibly impressive. Whether you’re hosting a holiday feast or looking for a simple yet sophisticated addition to your party spread, this recipe is guaranteed to please. Give it a try and let us know how it brightened your celebration!