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Festive Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log

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This Festive Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log is a show-stopping appetizer packed with vibrant flavors and textures. Creamy, savory, and loaded with antipasto-inspired ingredients, this make-ahead dish is perfect for holiday gatherings and adds a festive touch to any table. Serve with crackers, crostini, or veggie sticks for a crowd-pleasing start to your celebration!

Ingredients

Scale
  • 16 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup roasted red peppers, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup kalamata or green olives, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup pepperoni or salami, finely diced
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped (plus extra for garnish)
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup crushed pistachios (or chopped pecans, for coating)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture:
    • In a large bowl, combine the cream cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, roasted red peppers, olives, pepperoni or salami, parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
  2. Shape the Log:
    • Lay a large sheet of plastic wrap on your work surface. Spoon the mixture onto the plastic wrap and shape it into a log (about 8 inches long). Wrap tightly and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until firm.
  3. Coat the Log:
    • Spread the crushed pistachios or chopped pecans on a plate. Unwrap the cream cheese log and roll it in the nuts, pressing gently to adhere.
  4. Serve:
    • Place the log on a serving platter. Garnish with extra chopped parsley if desired. Serve with crackers, crostini, or veggies.

Notes

  • For a vegetarian version, omit the pepperoni or salami and add more olives or artichoke hearts.
  • The cream cheese log can be made up to 2 days in advance. Coat with nuts just before serving for best texture.
  • Experiment with flavors: try adding diced artichoke hearts, capers, or shredded Parmesan for variety.