Description
A festive and flavorful holiday appetizer featuring a creamy cream cheese log coated with a vibrant mixture of olives, roasted red peppers, fresh herbs, and dried cranberries. Perfect for serving with crackers or bread at gatherings and celebrations.
Ingredients
Scale
Base
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened (2 blocks)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
Topping
- 1/2 cup mixed olives (green and black), finely chopped
- 1/4 cup roasted red peppers, drained and diced
- 2 tbsp dried cranberries
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 tsp fresh rosemary, finely chopped
- 1 tsp olive oil (optional, for mixing the toppings)
Serving
- Crackers, crostini, or bread for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the cream cheese base: In a medium bowl, mix the softened cream cheese with garlic powder until smooth and well combined.
- Shape and chill the log: Lay a piece of plastic wrap on the counter. Place the cream cheese mixture onto it and shape it into a log. Wrap tightly and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
- Prepare the topping mixture: While the log chills, finely chop the olives, roasted red peppers, and fresh herbs. Mix them together in a small bowl with a drizzle of olive oil (optional) to combine and enhance flavors.
- Coat the cream cheese log: Unwrap the chilled cream cheese log and place it on a serving platter. Gently press the olive, pepper, and herb mixture evenly over the surface of the log, covering it completely.
- Add dried cranberries and garnish: Sprinkle dried cranberries over the top to add a pop of color and tartness. Garnish with extra parsley or rosemary if desired for a festive look.
- Serve and enjoy: Serve the antipasto cream cheese log with crackers, crostini, or bread for a delightful holiday appetizer experience.
Notes
- For firmer logs, chill the cream cheese mixture longer than 30 minutes if needed.
- Mixing olive oil into the toppings is optional but adds richness and helps toppings stick better.
- Use a variety of colorful olives and peppers to enhance the visual appeal.
- This log can be made a few hours ahead and stored covered in the refrigerator.
- Suitable for vegetarians but not vegan due to cream cheese.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: holiday appetizer, antipasto, cream cheese log, festive appetizer, party recipe, cream cheese appetizer, olives, roasted red peppers
