Festive Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log

Posted on December 24, 2024

Chef Walter

Festive Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log decorated with olives and peppers on a rustic wooden board

Dinner

Image: Fito Recipes

5.0 from 1 vote

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

The holidays are all about gathering around good food and great company. And what better way to kick off the celebration than with a show-stopping appetizer? This Festive Antipasto Cheese Log is the ultimate party starter. Creamy, savory, and bursting with Mediterranean flavors, it’s not just delicious but stunningly vibrant. Whether you’re hosting an intimate family dinner or a festive gathering with friends, this easy-to-make cheese log will steal the show. Plus, it’s quick to prepare, leaving you with more time to enjoy the festivities. The Festive Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log is truly a centerpiece appetizer.

Looking for more appetizers to complement this? Try our Crispy Baked Zucchini Fries for a crunchy side option. For a sweet finish, check out the Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Recipe.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple Yet Elegant – Minimal effort, maximum flavor. This recipe delivers gourmet taste without the hassle of multiple steps to create your Festive Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log.
Versatile – Customize with your favorite antipasto ingredients for endless variations.
Make-Ahead Friendly – Prepare it a day in advance and serve when ready.
Crowd-Pleaser – Pair it with crackers, crusty bread, or fresh veggies for a spread that everyone will enjoy.

Ingredients You’ll Need

- 8 oz cream cheese, softened (Neufchâtel for a lighter option)  
- 1/2 cup roasted red peppers, finely chopped  
- 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

Optional Additions

1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes (instead of artichokes) for your Festive Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log.
Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
Chopped nuts for texture

Simple Step-by-Step

Mix the Ingredients
- First, in a large bowl, combine softened cream cheese, roasted red peppers, olives, artichokes, Parmesan, and Italian seasoning. Stir until well blended.
Shape the Log
- Next, place the mixture onto plastic wrap and use the wrap to shape it into a Festive Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log. Ensure it’s compact and smooth.
Chill and Set
- Then, refrigerate the log for at least 2 hours to allow flavors to meld and firm up.
Serve with Garnish
- After chilling, unwrap and place on a serving platter. Drizzle with olive oil and garnish with extra Italian seasoning or fresh herbs. Your Festive Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log will be ready to impress.
Pair It Up
- Finally, serve with crackers, crusty bread, or vegetable sticks.

Pro Tips for Success

Too Soft? Add extra Parmesan to thicken the mixture.
Extra Firmness – Freeze for 15 minutes before serving to ensure perfect slicing.
Add Texture – Roll the Festive Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log in crushed nuts for a delightful crunch.

Variations to Try

Mediterranean Twist – Add chopped sundried tomatoes or pine nuts for extra depth.
Spicy Kick – Mix in chili flakes or hot sauce for a little heat.
Herb Infused – Fold in fresh chives, basil, or parsley for a fresh burst of flavor.

Cultural Note: The Antipasto Tradition
In Italy, antipasto means “before the meal,” traditionally consisting of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and marinated vegetables. This dish captures the essence of that tradition in a playful, shareable form, perfect for holiday celebrations. Learn more about the history of antipasto on Wikipedia.

Sweet and Healthy Enjoyment
And there you have it—the Festive Antipasto Cheese Log! A dish that radiates warmth, charm, and flavor, it’s perfect for holiday gatherings, creating memorable moments and satisfying your guests. The Festive Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log is a must-try recipe for this season.