Antipasto Cream Cheese Log Recipe

Antipasto Cream Cheese Log

Ingredients

For the Cream Cheese Base:

2 blocks (16 oz total) of cream cheese, softened

1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 tablespoon Italian seasoning

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Antipasto Mix:

1/2 cup roasted red peppers, finely chopped

1/2 cup marinated artichoke hearts, finely chopped

1/2 cup pitted Kalamata or green olives, finely chopped

1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, finely chopped

1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped

1/4 cup toasted pine nuts (optional, for crunch)

1/4 cup diced pepperoni or salami (optional, for extra flavor)

For the Coating:

1/2 cup finely chopped fresh parsley or basil

1/4 cup finely chopped roasted red peppers

1/4 cup finely chopped olives or nuts

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
2. Add the Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, crushed red pepper flakes, and salt. Mix until fully incorporated.

Step 2: Mix in the Antipasto Ingredients

1. Gently fold in the roasted red peppers, marinated artichoke hearts, olives, sun-dried tomatoes, parsley, and basil.
2. If desired, add the diced pepperoni, salami, or toasted pine nuts for added flavor and texture.
3. Mix until the ingredients are evenly distributed throughout the cream cheese.

Step 3: Shape the Log

1. Lay a large sheet of plastic wrap or parchment paper on your work surface.
2. Scoop the cream cheese mixture onto the plastic wrap, forming it into a rough log shape.
3. Using the edges of the plastic wrap, roll and shape the mixture into a smooth log approximately 8-10 inches long.
4. Tightly wrap the log in the plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until firm. For best results, refrigerate overnight.

Step 4: Prepare the Coating

1. On a clean surface or cutting board, mix the chopped parsley, roasted red peppers, and olives (or nuts) for the coating.
2. Spread the mixture out evenly.

Step 5: Coat the Cream Cheese Log

1. Remove the cream cheese log from the refrigerator and unwrap it.
2. Roll the log gently over the prepared coating mixture, pressing lightly to ensure the coating adheres evenly to the surface.
3. Once fully coated, transfer the log to a serving platter.

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Serving Suggestions

Serve the antipasto cream cheese log with an assortment of crackers, breadsticks, or sliced baguette.

Pair it with fresh vegetables like cucumber rounds, cherry tomatoes, and celery sticks for a low-carb option.

Garnish the platter with fresh basil leaves, olives, or roasted red peppers for an elegant presentation.

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Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Make Ahead: This recipe can be prepared up to 2 days in advance. Store the coated log in an airtight container in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

Storage: Leftovers can be wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

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Tips and Variations

Flavor Variations

1. Spicy Version: Add finely chopped pickled jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper for a spicy twist.
2. Mediterranean-Inspired: Use feta cheese instead of Parmesan and add chopped cucumbers for a fresh Mediterranean flavor.
3. Vegetarian: Skip the pepperoni or salami and focus on marinated vegetables like eggplant or zucchini.

Shape Variations

1. Instead of a log, shape the cream cheese mixture into a ball for a festive cream cheese ball.
2. For individual servings, form the mixture into smaller, bite-sized balls or patties.

Garnish Ideas

1. Sprinkle the coated log with grated Parmesan or a drizzle of olive oil just before serving.
2. Add edible flowers or microgreens for a sophisticated touch.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Prepare: Requires minimal cooking and mostly involves chopping and mixing.

Customizable: You can adjust the ingredients to suit your taste or dietary preferences.

Visually Stunning: The colorful antipasto ingredients make this appetizer a showstopper on any table.

Crowd-Pleaser: A flavorful mix of creamy, tangy, and savory elements ensures it’s a hit with all your guests.