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Antipasto Cream Cheese Log Recipe

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4.6 from 7 reviews

A creamy and flavorful antipasto cream cheese log featuring a mix of olives, roasted red peppers, dried cranberries, and fresh herbs. This easy no-cook appetizer is perfect for entertaining and pairs wonderfully with crackers, crostini, or bread.

Ingredients

Base

  • 16 oz of softened cream cheese (equivalent to 2 blocks)

Mix-ins

  • 1/2 cup of finely chopped mixed olives (green and black)
  • 1/4 cup of drained and diced roasted red peppers
  • 2 tablespoons of dried cranberries
  • 2 tablespoons of finely chopped fresh parsley
  • 1 teaspoon of finely chopped fresh rosemary
  • 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon of olive oil (optional, to blend the toppings)

To Serve

  • Crackers, crostini, or bread for serving

Instructions

  1. Prepare Cream Cheese: Begin by ensuring your cream cheese is at room temperature to achieve a smooth and creamy texture. Place the 16 oz of softened cream cheese into a medium-sized mixing bowl.
  2. Incorporate Olives and Peppers: Add the 1/2 cup of finely chopped mixed olives, mixing evenly to distribute the briny flavors. Gently fold in the 1/4 cup diced roasted red peppers, which add sweetness and vibrant color.
  3. Add Cranberries and Herbs: Sprinkle in 2 tablespoons of dried cranberries for a chewy contrast, then add 2 tablespoons of finely chopped fresh parsley and 1 teaspoon of finely chopped fresh rosemary. Mix thoroughly to infuse the herbaceous aroma throughout the mixture.
  4. Season and Optional Oil: Add 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder to season the log subtly. If desired, drizzle in 1 teaspoon of olive oil to enhance texture and add a slight sheen, then mix to combine.
  5. Shape and Chill: Lay out a piece of plastic wrap and transfer the mixture onto it. Shape into a log by tightly wrapping the mixture with the plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to let the flavors meld and the log firm up for easier slicing.
  6. Coat and Garnish: Once firm, unwrap the log and roll it in additional chopped fresh parsley to create a vibrant green coating. Garnish the serving platter with rosemary sprigs for an elegant presentation.
  7. Serve: Present the antipasto cream cheese log alongside a selection of crackers, crostini, or sliced bread, ready for guests to enjoy.

Notes

  • Allowing cream cheese to soften at room temperature is vital for a creamy and smooth finished texture.
  • Use a mix of green and black olives for depth of flavor and color contrast.
  • Fresh herbs can be substituted with dried if fresh are unavailable, but use about one-third of the amount and hydrate if possible.
  • The olive oil is optional but helps the toppings adhere better and adds a slight richness.
  • Chilling for at least 2 hours is important to let the flavors meld and the log firm up for neat slicing.
  • Serve within 2 days for optimal freshness and flavor.

Find it online: https://sweetworldcooks.com/antipasto-cream-cheese-log-recipe/