Description

This Indulgent Festive Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log Delight is a flavorful and visually appealing appetizer perfect for holiday gatherings. It combines creamy softened cream cheese with an array of tangy and savory antipasto ingredients like roasted red peppers, Kalamata and green olives, sun-dried tomatoes, fresh parsley, and a sprinkle of garlic powder and black pepper. Toasted pecans add a delightful crunch, while optional pepperoncini contribute a mild kick. This no-cook recipe assembles quickly and serves beautifully sliced as a festive hors d’oeuvre.

Ingredients

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Antipasto Cream Cheese Base

8 oz Cream Cheese (softened)
1 tbsp Olive Oil (optional)
1 tsp Garlic Powder (adjust to taste)
1/2 tsp Black Pepper

Vegetables & Herbs

1 cup Roasted Red Peppers (finely chopped, patted dry)
1/2 cup Kalamata Olives (chopped finely)
1/2 cup Green Olives with Pimentos (finely chopped)
1/2 cup Sun-Dried Tomatoes (finely chopped, drained if packed in oil)
1/4 cup Fresh Parsley (finely chopped)
1/4 cup Chopped Pepperoncini (optional)

Nuts

1/2 cup Toasted Pecans (finely chopped)

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Instructions

Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and olive oil (if using). Mix well until smooth and creamy, ensuring the olive oil is fully incorporated for added richness.
Add Seasonings: Stir in garlic powder and black pepper evenly into the cream cheese mixture. Adjust garlic powder according to taste preference to enhance the flavor profile.
Incorporate Chopped Antipasto Ingredients: Fold in the finely chopped roasted red peppers, Kalamata olives, green olives with pimentos, sun-dried tomatoes, fresh parsley, and if using, chopped pepperoncini. Mix thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed throughout the cream cheese base.
Shape the Log: Place the mixture onto a large piece of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Shape it gently into a log form, ensuring a compact and even shape for easy slicing later.
Roll in Toasted Pecans: Spread the finely chopped toasted pecans on a flat surface or plate. Roll the cream cheese log over the pecans until it is evenly coated on all sides. This adds a crunchy texture and a nutty flavor contrast.
Chill the Log: Wrap the log tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until firm. This chilling step helps the flavors meld and makes the log easier to slice.
Slice and Serve: Once chilled, unwrap the cream cheese log and slice it into approximately 10 slices. Arrange the slices on a serving platter and serve chilled as a festive appetizer.

Notes

For best results, ensure the cream cheese is well softened at room temperature before mixing to avoid lumps.
To toast pecans, spread them on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes, stirring halfway through until fragrant and lightly browned.
The addition of olive oil is optional but enhances the creaminess and flavor.
Chilling the log is crucial for slicing cleanly and flavor development.
You can serve with assorted crackers or sliced baguette for an elegant presentation.