A festive and flavorful appetizer, the Italian Cheese Log combines the bold, savory flavors of Italian antipasto into a creamy and indulgent centerpiece for your holiday table. It’s an easy make-ahead recipe that adds a touch of elegance to any gathering.
Why You’ll Love This RecipeI
- Crowd-Pleaser: Packed with Italian-inspired flavors like roasted peppers, olives, and sun-dried tomatoes, it’s a hit with guests of all ages.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Perfect for holiday prep, as it can be made up to a week in advance.
- Versatile: Pairs wonderfully with crackers, fresh bread, or even vegetable sticks.
- Easy to Customize: Swap ingredients or adjust the seasoning to suit your taste preferences.
Ingredients
- 500g (1 lb) cream cheese, softened
- 1/3 cup sour cream
- 1/2 teaspoon each: dried thyme, oregano, basil, rosemary, black pepper (or 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning)
- 1 teaspoon each: garlic powder, salt, red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 2 cups cheddar cheese, freshly grated
- 280g (9 oz) roasted peppers, drained and finely chopped
- 180g (6 oz) salami, finely chopped
- 3/4 cup green olives, finely chopped
- 1/3 cup green onions, finely minced (3–4 stalks)
- 220g (7 oz) sun-dried tomato strips in oil, roughly chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped (or chives)
- Rosemary sprigs, for garnish
- Crackers, for serving
Directions
- Line a loaf pan with plastic wrap, leaving enough overhang for easy removal.
- In a large bowl, combine cream cheese, sour cream, dried herbs, spices, and grated cheddar cheese. Mix until well blended.
- Gently fold in roasted peppers, salami, olives, and green onions, ensuring even distribution.
- Transfer the mixture into the prepared loaf pan, pressing firmly to remove air pockets and level the surface. Cover with the plastic wrap overhang.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or up to a week, allowing the flavors to meld and the log to firm up.
- To serve, invert the cheese log onto a serving platter and carefully remove the plastic wrap.
- Top with sun-dried tomatoes and drizzle with their infused oil. Garnish with parsley and rosemary sprigs for a festive presentation.
- Serve with an assortment of crackers. Let the cheese log come closer to room temperature before serving for the best texture and flavor.
Servings and Timing
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Chill Time: 4 hours
- Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
- Servings: 15–20
- Calories: Approximately 278 kcal per serving
Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Omit the salami and add more sun-dried tomatoes or chopped marinated artichokes.
- Spicy Kick: Increase the red pepper flakes or add chopped jalapeños.
- Different Cheese Blends: Substitute cheddar with Gouda, mozzarella, or a sharp Parmesan for a unique flavor profile.
- Herbaceous Twist: Add fresh herbs like dill or cilantro for an extra burst of freshness.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store the cheese log in an airtight container or tightly wrapped in plastic wrap for up to 7 days.
- Freezing: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
- Reheating: No reheating is necessary, but allow the cheese log to sit at room temperature for 15–20 minutes before serving to enhance spreadability.
FAQs
1. Can I make this recipe without a loaf pan?
Yes, you can shape the cheese mixture into a log or ball by hand and wrap it in plastic wrap.
2. What are good cracker options for serving?
Any sturdy crackers like water crackers, Ritz, or multigrain crackers work well.
3. Can I use store-bought shredded cheese?
Freshly grated cheese is recommended for better texture and flavor, but store-bought shredded cheese can work in a pinch.
4. Can I add nuts to this recipe?
Yes, chopped pecans or walnuts can be added for extra crunch.
5. Is this cheese log gluten-free?
The cheese log itself is gluten-free; just pair it with gluten-free crackers or vegetables.
6. Can I substitute the cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative?
Yes, there are plant-based cream cheese options that can be used for a dairy-free version.
7. What other garnishes work well?
Pomegranate seeds, chopped chives, or toasted sesame seeds can add visual appeal and flavor.
8. How far in advance can I make this recipe?
You can prepare it up to a week in advance, making it ideal for holiday planning.
9. Can I skip the sun-dried tomatoes?
Yes, you can omit them or replace them with roasted cherry tomatoes or marinated artichokes.
10. How can I adjust the flavor for kids?
Reduce or omit the red pepper flakes and salami for a milder flavor.
Conclusion
The Italian Cheese Log is a delicious and visually stunning appetizer that adds flair to any celebration. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or simply treating your family, this versatile dish is sure to impress. Prepare it ahead, customize to your liking, and enjoy the rich, creamy flavors with every bite.