The holidays are the perfect time to indulge in flavorful appetizers that bring people together. This Festive Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log is a vibrant, savory dish that makes a beautiful and delicious addition to any holiday gathering. Cream cheese serves as a rich, smooth base, enhanced with roasted red peppers, olives, and a blend of Italian seasonings. Drizzled with olive oil and garnished with fresh parsley, this dish not only tastes fantastic but also adds a pop of color to your table. Perfect for dipping with crackers, bread, or fresh veggies, it’s an easy yet impressive appetizer that everyone will love. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or bringing a dish to a family gathering, this antipasto log is a crowd-pleasing option that can be made ahead of time, giving you more time to enjoy the festivities.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Festive Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log is the ideal appetizer for the holiday season. It’s simple to prepare, yet delivers bold, savory flavors with every bite. The cream cheese base is smooth and creamy, balancing the tangy roasted red peppers, briny olives, and aromatic Italian seasoning. The touch of garlic powder enhances the flavors, while the olive oil and Parmesan cheese add richness and depth. This dish is not only flavorful but also visually appealing, with its vibrant red and green colors making it a festive centerpiece for your spread. Whether served with crispy crackers, slices of baguette, or crunchy vegetable sticks, it’s a versatile appetizer that complements a wide range of dishes. Best of all, it can be prepared ahead of time, making it perfect for busy holiday gatherings.

Ingredients

Cream cheese, softened
Roasted red peppers, finely chopped and drained
Green and black olives, chopped
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Olive oil (for drizzling)
Garlic powder
Italian seasoning
Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Salt and pepper, to taste
Crackers, bread, or vegetable sticks for serving

Variations

While the classic version of this antipasto log is delicious, there are several ways to personalize it based on your preferences:

Add More Cheeses: For an even cheesier experience, you can mix in some shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese.
Spicy Version: If you like a bit of heat, consider adding finely chopped jalapeños or a dash of crushed red pepper flakes to the cream cheese mixture.
Meat Lover’s Twist: Add chopped prosciutto, salami, or pepperoni to the mixture for extra flavor and heartiness.
Herb Variations: You can switch out the Italian seasoning with fresh basil or oregano for a different herbal flavor profile.
Vegan Version: Use a plant-based cream cheese and check that your olives and other ingredients are vegan-friendly for a delicious plant-based version.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Mix the Ingredients

In a medium mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, roasted red peppers, chopped olives, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir well until all ingredients are fully incorporated into the cream cheese.

Step 2: Shape the Log

Transfer the mixture onto a piece of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Using your hands or a spatula, shape the mixture into a log shape, ensuring that it’s firm and evenly shaped.

Step 3: Chill the Log

Wrap the log tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate it for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld together and the log to firm up.

Step 4: Garnish

Once chilled, remove the log from the refrigerator and unwrap it. Place it on a serving platter. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley, and, if desired, top with grated Parmesan cheese.

Step 5: Serve

Serve the antipasto log with crackers, slices of baguette, or vegetable sticks like carrots, celery, or cucumber for dipping.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Room Temperature Cream Cheese: Make sure the cream cheese is softened before mixing, as this will make it easier to incorporate the other ingredients and create a smooth texture.
Chill the Log: Letting the log chill for at least 2 hours helps the flavors develop and ensures that it holds its shape when you slice or serve it.
Garnishing: Fresh parsley adds a nice pop of color and freshness. You can also try using basil or thyme for a different garnish.
Add Extra Flavors: For additional flavor, you can also stir in a little lemon zest or a splash of balsamic vinegar into the cream cheese mixture.

How to Serve

This festive antipasto log is a great appetizer for any holiday celebration. It pairs well with a variety of dipping options, such as crackers, toasted baguette slices, or fresh vegetable sticks like celery, carrots, and cucumber. You can also serve it alongside other finger foods like cheese platters, charcuterie boards, or stuffed mushrooms. This appetizer is sure to impress your guests with its bold flavors and stunning presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover antipasto cream cheese log can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to cover it well to maintain its freshness.

Freezing

It’s not recommended to freeze the cream cheese log, as freezing could affect the texture of the cream cheese and other ingredients.

Reheating

This antipasto log is best served chilled, so there’s no need to reheat. Simply remove it from the fridge before serving, and it will be ready to enjoy.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can mix in other cheeses like feta, goat cheese, or ricotta for a different flavor. Parmesan is optional but adds a nice touch.

2. Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this antipasto log up to 2 days ahead of time. Just keep it tightly wrapped in plastic wrap in the refrigerator.

3. Can I use different types of olives?

Absolutely! You can use Kalamata olives, green olives, or any other variety of olives you prefer.

4. Can I use fresh peppers instead of roasted ones?

Roasted red peppers give this dish a smoky flavor, but you can use fresh peppers if needed. Just chop them finely and sauté them to soften before adding.

5. How do I make the log firm?

Be sure to chill the log for at least 2 hours. This helps the cream cheese mixture firm up and hold its shape.

6. Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh parsley?

Yes, you can use dried parsley, though fresh herbs provide a brighter, more vibrant flavor.

7. Can I make this log vegan?

Yes, substitute the cream cheese with a plant-based version, and make sure your olives and other ingredients are vegan-friendly.

8. Can I add meat to the cream cheese log?

Yes, you can add chopped deli meats like salami, prosciutto, or pepperoni for an extra savory touch.

9. What else can I serve with this log?

In addition to crackers and bread, you can also serve fresh vegetable sticks, sliced meats, or a variety of cheeses alongside the log.

10. How long does this last in the fridge?

This antipasto cream cheese log can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep it tightly wrapped to maintain freshness.

Conclusion

This Festive Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log is an easy and delicious appetizer that adds festive flair to any occasion. With its vibrant colors, bold flavors, and creamy texture, it’s sure to be a hit at your next holiday gathering. Whether you’re hosting a party or bringing a dish to share, this simple yet impressive appetizer will delight your guests and make your holiday celebrations even more memorable.