Italian Antipasto Cream Cheese Log is a delightful appetizer that never fails to impress at gatherings. This dish combines the rich, creamy texture of cream cheese with the vibrant flavors of traditional Italian antipasto ingredients, creating a perfect balance that tantalizes the taste buds. Originating from Italy, antipasto has long been a staple in Italian cuisine, serving as a prelude to the main meal and showcasing the country’s love for fresh, high-quality ingredients.
What I love most about the Italian Antipasto Cream Cheese Log is its versatility and convenience. It can be prepared ahead of time, making it an ideal choice for busy hosts. The combination of savory meats, tangy olives, and aromatic herbs not only adds depth to the dish but also makes it a crowd-pleaser. Whether served with crackers, bread, or fresh vegetables, this creamy log is sure to be a hit at any gathering. Join me as we explore how to create this delicious Italian-inspired appetizer that will leave your guests asking for seconds!
Ingredients:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup Italian antipasto mix (chopped olives, roasted red peppers, artichoke hearts, etc.)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1/4 cup walnuts or pine nuts, toasted and chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
- Crackers or sliced baguette for serving
Preparing the Cream Cheese Mixture
- Start by gathering all your ingredients on the countertop. This makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.
- In a large mixing bowl, add the softened cream cheese. If you forgot to take it out of the fridge ahead of time, you can microwave it for about 15-20 seconds to soften it up, but be careful not to melt it.
- Using a hand mixer or a spatula, beat the cream cheese until it’s smooth and creamy. This will be the base of your log, so you want it to be well-blended.
- Next, add the grated Parmesan cheese and shredded mozzarella cheese to the bowl. These cheeses will add a rich flavor and creamy texture to the log.
- Now, it’s time to incorporate the Italian antipasto mix. If you’re using a store-bought mix, make sure to drain any excess liquid to avoid making the mixture too runny. If you’re making your own mix, chop the ingredients finely so they blend well into the cream cheese.
- Stir in the chopped fresh basil, sun-dried tomatoes, and toasted nuts. The nuts add a delightful crunch, while the basil and tomatoes bring freshness and a burst of flavor.
- Season the mixture with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning as needed. You want it to be flavorful but not overpowering.
Shaping the Cream Cheese Log
- Once your mixture is well combined, it’s time to shape it into a log. Lay out a large piece of plastic wrap on your countertop.
- Transfer the cream cheese mixture onto the center of the plastic wrap. Using a spatula, form it into a log shape. You can make it as thick or thin as you like, but I usually aim for about 2 inches in diameter.
- Once you have the desired shape, fold the plastic wrap over the log, making sure to wrap it tightly. This will help maintain the shape while it chills.
- Twist the ends of the plastic wrap to secure the log, and place it in the refrigerator. Let it chill for at least 2 hours, or overnight if you have the time. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Preparing to Serve
- When you’re ready to serve, take the cream cheese log out of the refrigerator. Unwrap it from the plastic wrap carefully.
- To make it look extra appealing, you can roll the log in some extra chopped nuts or fresh herbs. This adds a nice touch and makes it visually stunning.
- Transfer the log to a serving platter. I like to garnish it with a few fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and freshness.
- Serve the cream cheese log with an assortment of crackers or slices of baguette. This makes it easy for guests to enjoy, and the crunch of the crackers pairs perfectly with the creamy log.
Tips for Customization
- If you want to add a bit of heat, consider mixing in some chopped jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes.
- For a different flavor profile, you can substitute the Italian antipasto mix with a Mediterranean mix that includes ingredients like feta cheese, capers, and roasted eggplant.
- Feel free to experiment with different herbs. Fresh parsley, oregano, or thyme can all add unique flavors to your log
Conclusion:
In summary, the Italian Antipasto Cream Cheese Log is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to elevate their appetizer game. This delightful dish combines the rich creaminess of cream cheese with the vibrant flavors of Italian antipasto ingredients, creating a perfect balance that will leave your taste buds dancing. Whether you’re hosting a party, enjoying a cozy night in, or simply want to impress your family with a delicious snack, this recipe is sure to be a hit. For serving suggestions, consider pairing the log with an assortment of crunchy crackers, fresh vegetables, or even slices of crusty bread. You can also get creative with variations by adding your favorite antipasto ingredients, such as roasted red peppers, artichoke hearts, or even a sprinkle of fresh herbs for an extra burst of flavor. The possibilities are endless! I encourage you to give this Italian Antipasto Cream Cheese Log a try and share your experience with friends and family. I would love to hear how it turned out for you and any unique twists you added to make it your own. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and enjoy the process of creating this delicious appetizer. Trust me, once you take that first bite, you’ll understand why this recipe is a crowd-pleaser! Print
Italian Antipasto Cream Cheese Log: A Delicious Appetizer Recipe for Your Next Gathering
- Total Time: 140 minutes
- Yield: 8–10 servings 1x
Description
This Cream Cheese Antipasto Log is a creamy and savory appetizer that combines cream cheese with Italian antipasto and fresh herbs, all shaped into a log for easy serving. Perfect for gatherings, it pairs beautifully with crackers or sliced baguette, making it a crowd-pleaser at any event.
Ingredients
Scale- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup Italian antipasto mix (chopped olives, roasted red peppers, artichoke hearts, etc.)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1/4 cup walnuts or pine nuts, toasted and chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
- Crackers or sliced baguette for serving
Instructions
- Start by gathering all your ingredients on the countertop for a smoother process.
- In a large mixing bowl, add the softened cream cheese. If it’s too firm, microwave it for 15-20 seconds to soften, but avoid melting.
- Beat the cream cheese with a hand mixer or spatula until smooth and creamy.
- Add the grated Parmesan and shredded mozzarella cheese to the bowl, mixing well.
- Incorporate the Italian antipasto mix, ensuring to drain any excess liquid if store-bought.
- Stir in the chopped fresh basil, sun-dried tomatoes, and toasted nuts.
- Season with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Lay out a large piece of plastic wrap on your countertop.
- Transfer the cream cheese mixture to the center of the plastic wrap and shape it into a log, about 2 inches in diameter.
- Wrap the plastic tightly around the log and twist the ends to secure it.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best flavor melding.
- When ready to serve, carefully unwrap the log from the plastic wrap.
- Optionally, roll the log in extra chopped nuts or fresh herbs for added visual appeal.
- Transfer the log to a serving platter and garnish with fresh basil leaves.
- Serve with an assortment of crackers or slices of baguette.
Notes
- For added heat, mix in chopped jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes.
- Substitute the Italian antipasto mix with a Mediterranean mix for a different flavor profile.
- Experiment with different herbs like parsley, oregano, or thyme for unique flavors.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
Leave a Comment