Description
A creamy, colorful holiday appetizer: a smooth cream cheese log studded with briny olives, sweet roasted red peppers, and fresh herbs. Beautiful on a board and ready in minutes.
Ingredients
450 g cream cheese
1 cup mixed olives (green, black, Kalamata), chopped
1/2 cup roasted red peppers, chopped
1/4 cup fresh herbs (parsley, rosemary, chives), chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup sharp cheddar or provolone, shredded (optional)
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Instructions
1. Chop olives, roasted red peppers, garlic, and herbs into small, even pieces.
2. In a mixing bowl, blend softened cream cheese with garlic, herbs, black pepper, and red pepper flakes until smooth.
3. Fold in half of the chopped olives, peppers, and shredded cheese (if using).
4. Transfer to parchment, shape into a tight log, and wrap well.
5. Chill for at least 1 hour to firm.
6. Unwrap and roll in the remaining olives, peppers, and herbs. Serve with crackers, bread, or veggie sticks.
Notes
Soften the cream cheese fully for the silkiest texture.
Make up to 24 hours ahead; add the outside garnish just before serving.
Adjust heat by changing the red pepper flakes to taste.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-bake
- Cuisine: American (Mediterranean-inspired)
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/12 recipe
- Calories: 145
- Sugar: 1
- Sodium: 280
- Fat: 13
- Saturated Fat: 7
- Unsaturated Fat: 5
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 2
- Fiber: 0
- Protein: 4
- Cholesterol: 35
Keywords: antipasto, cream cheese log, holiday appetizer, olives