Festive Holiday Antipasto Log

This Festive Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log is a crowd-pleasing appetizer bursting with ItalianAmerican flavors. Cream cheese gets blended with sundried tomatoes, olives, salami, and herbs, then transformed into an elegant log that shines on any holiday table or charcuterie board. It’s an effortless nocook option that feels special and tastes amazing.

I first made this for a Christmas Eve gathering and it disappeared so fast that it became a tradition every year since.

Ingredients

• Cream cheese: sixteen ounces softened forms the creamy, tangy base and helps hold everything together
• Sundried tomatoes: half a cup finely chopped packed with concentrated flavor to brighten the mix
• Olives: half a cup finely chopped add a briny punch, use black or green depending on your preference
• Roasted red peppers: half a cup finely chopped bring sweetness and a splash of vibrant color
• Salami or pepperoni: onethird cup finely chopped boosts the savory depth and meaty chew
• Parmesan cheese: onequarter cup grated offers nutty richness and a bit of saltiness
• Fresh parsley: two tablespoons chopped adds freshness and a burst of herbal aroma
• Italian seasoning: one teaspoon a signature blend that ties all the flavors together
• Garlic powder: half a teaspoon gives a mild, warm undertone
• Onion powder: half a teaspoon enhances the savory profile
• Red pepper flakes: quarter teaspoon optional a subtle heat kick if you like a little spice
• Black pepper: half a teaspoon freshly ground balances and sharpens the taste
• Salt: quarter teaspoon adjust to taste enhances all the other ingredients
• Fresh parsley or basil (for garnish): onequarter cup chopped makes the log look festive and fresh
• Roasted red peppers (for garnish): two tablespoons finely chopped adds bright color on the outside
• Olives (for garnish): two tablespoons finely chopped pairs visually and tastewise with the log interior
• Chopped nuts (optional for garnish): two tablespoons gives a delightful crunch

Instructions

Prepare the Mixture:

Combine the softened cream cheese with sundried tomatoes, olives, roasted red peppers, salami, Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, red pepper flakes if using, black pepper, and salt in a large bowl. Use a sturdy spoon or spatula to mix thoroughly until every ingredient is evenly distributed within the creamy base. This ensures a consistent flavor and texture throughout the log.

Shape the Log:

Place the cream cheese mixture in the center of a large piece of plastic wrap. Gather the edges of the plastic wrap around the mixture and shape it firmly into a log about six to eight inches long. Make sure to pack it tight enough so it holds its shape but not so compressed that it becomes dense. Wrap the log tightly and refrigerate for at least two hours or overnight to allow it to firm up properly. Chilling helps the flavors meld and makes slicing easier.

Garnish the Log:

Once the log has chilled and set, remove the plastic wrap carefully. In a shallow dish, combine chopped fresh parsley or basil, finely chopped roasted red peppers, olives, and optional chopped nuts. Roll the entire surface of the cheese log in this mixture, gently pressing to help it stick. The garnish adds a festive burst of color and texture that makes the appetizer pop on the table.

Serve with Crackers and Veggies:

Arrange the finished log on a serving platter alongside your choice of crackers, toasted bread slices, or fresh vegetable sticks. Slice into rounds just before serving. Your guests will love the beautiful presentation and delicious variety of flavors in each bite.

My favorite ingredient is definitely the sundried tomatoes because they bring a deep, tangy sweetness that perfectly balances the richness of the cream cheese. I remember my first holiday party making this everyone was asking where I got it, and it instantly became a staple for all our family celebrations.

Storage Tips

Store any leftover log wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to three days. If you want to prepare in advance, make the log a day ahead and add the garnish right before serving to keep it looking fresh and colorful.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can substitute goat cheese for the cream cheese if you prefer a tangier flavor and lighter texture. Turkey or beef pepperoni can replace salami for a different but equally delicious taste. For a nutfree version, simply omit the nuts in the garnish or swap in toasted breadcrumbs for a bit of crunch.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with an assortment of crisp crackers like water crackers or multigrain for texture contrast. Fresh veggies like celery, carrot sticks, and cucumber slices pair well for a lighter option. It also shines on a festive charcuterie board alongside meats, cheeses, and pickled vegetables.

This antipasto cream cheese log is an effortless crowdpleasing appetizer that looks beautiful and tastes even better. Make it a day ahead to simplify holiday entertaining.

Common Questions About Recipes

→ How long should the antipasto log chill?

Chill the log for at least 2 hours to firm up properly, though overnight refrigeration enhances flavors and texture.

→ Can I prepare this in advance?

Yes, it can be made up to three days ahead and stored covered in the refrigerator for convenience.

→ What types of cheese work best?

Cream cheese provides a smooth base, but swapping with goat cheese adds a tangier profile if preferred.

→ Are there any gluten-free considerations?

This dish is naturally gluten-free, perfect for those avoiding gluten without extra modifications.

→ How can I serve the antipasto log?

Slice and serve with crackers, toasted bread, or fresh vegetables for a festive and elegant appetizer presentation.