Description
This Festive Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log is a stunning and flavorful appetizer perfect for holiday parties and gatherings. Creamy, smooth cream cheese is topped with a vibrant mix of olives, roasted red peppers, fresh herbs, and dried cranberries, creating a savory and elegant dish that’s sure to impress. Serve it with crackers, crostini, or fresh bread for a crowd-pleasing appetizer everyone will love!
Ingredients
- 16 ozcream cheese, softened (2blocks)
- 1/2 cupmixed olives (green and black), finely chopped
- 1/4 cuproasted red peppers, drained and diced
- 2 tbspdried cranberries
- 2 tbspfresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 tspfresh rosemary, finely chopped
- 1/2 tspgarlic powder
- 1 tspolive oil (optional, for mixing the toppings)
- Crackers, crostini, or bread for serving
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, mix the softened cream cheese with garlic powder until smooth.
- 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.
- Meanwhile, finely chop the olives, roasted red peppers, and fresh herbs. Mix them in a small bowl with a drizzle of olive oil (optional) to combine.
- 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.
- Sprinkle dried cranberries over the top for a pop of color and tartness. Garnish with extra parsley or rosemary if desired.
- Serve with crackers, crostini, or bread, and enjoy!
Notes
To prepare ahead of time, shape and chill the cream cheese log up to 24 hours in advance, adding the toppings just before serving.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
For extra Mediterranean flavor, add chopped sun-dried tomatoes or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes.
Customize the toppings with ingredients like chopped nuts (e.g., walnuts or pistachios) for added texture and flavor.