What’s the secret to a show-stopping holiday appetizer? This festive antipasto cream cheese log with olives and rosemary sprigs is a quick and easy homemade solution for weeknight dinner parties. Featuring creamy cheese and fresh herbs, it’s a family favorite. Save this idea for your next gathering.

festive holiday antipasto cream cheese log with olives and rosemary sprigs

Introduction

The festive holiday antipasto cream cheese log with olives and rosemary sprigs is a creative and delicious addition to any holiday gathering. This recipe stands out for its ease of preparation, rich flavor profile, and the use of everyday ingredients that can be found in most kitchens. By combining the creaminess of cheese, the savory taste of olives, and the freshness of rosemary, this dish offers a delightful experience for the palate. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is perfect for showcasing your culinary skills without spending hours in preparation. It’s a testament to how simple, accessible ingredients can be transformed into an impressive and mouth-watering centerpiece for your holiday table.

Why This Works

• Flavor balance and ingredient accessibility: The combination of cream cheese, olives, and rosemary creates a well-balanced flavor profile that is both savory and fresh. The ingredients are easily accessible, making this dish feasible for anyone to prepare.
• Ease of preparation: The recipe involves minimal cooking and focuses on mixing and assembling the ingredients, making it quick and straightforward to prepare.
• Impressive results with minimal effort: Despite the simplicity of the preparation, the final product is visually appealing and impressive, perfect for serving at holiday gatherings or parties.

Key Ingredients

The festive holiday antipasto cream cheese log with olives and rosemary sprigs relies on a few key ingredients for its distinctive flavor and appearance. The main components include a block of cream cheese, which serves as the base and provides creaminess; pitted green and black olives, which add a salty, savory taste; and fresh rosemary sprigs, which contribute a fragrant, herbaceous note. Additional ingredients such as garlic powder, salt, and pepper enhance the flavor, while chopped fresh parsley can be used as an optional garnish for added color and freshness. Practical substitutions can be made, such as using different types of cheese or herbs, but the core ingredients remain the backbone of this recipe.

Instructions

1. Step 1: Begin by preparing your ingredients. Soften the cream cheese to room temperature to make it easier to mix. Chop the olives and fresh rosemary into smaller pieces to ensure they distribute evenly throughout the cheese log.
2. Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, chopped olives, rosemary, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix all the ingredients together until they are well combined and the cheese is smooth and creamy.
3. Step 3: Lay a large piece of plastic wrap or parchment paper on a flat surface. Spoon the cream cheese mixture onto the center of the plastic wrap, shaping it into a log as you go. Fold the plastic wrap over the cheese log and gently press to form a uniform shape. Refrigerate the log for at least 30 minutes to allow it to set.
4. Step 4: Just before serving, remove the cheese log from the refrigerator and slice it into rounds. You can garnish each round with additional rosemary sprigs or chopped parsley for a festive touch. Serve the slices on a platter or individual plates, accompanied by crackers, bread, or vegetables for a complete antipasto experience.

Handy Tips

• Ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing to avoid lumps and to make it easier to blend with the other ingredients.
• Don’t overmix the cream cheese mixture, as this can make it too dense and lose its creamy texture.
• Experiment with different types of olives or herbs to find the combination that you enjoy the most.
• Consider making the cheese log a day in advance to allow the flavors to meld together in the refrigerator overnight.

Heat Control

This recipe does not require any cooking, making it a great option for those looking for a no-fuss, no-heat dish. The preparation involves only mixing and refrigerating the ingredients, eliminating the need for any temperature control or cooking techniques.

Crunch Factor

The crunch factor in this dish comes from the texture of the olives and any optional crunchy garnishes like chopped nuts or seeds. The cream cheese provides a smooth base, while the fresh rosemary adds a slight herbal crunch. To enhance the crunch factor, you can serve the cheese log with crunchy accompaniments like crackers or toasted bread.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

• For a more vibrant presentation, garnish the cheese log with edible flowers or microgreens in addition to rosemary sprigs.
• Use a variety of olives, such as Kalamata and green olives, to create a visually appealing mix of colors and textures.
• Keep the cheese log chilled until serving to maintain its shape and freshness. If it starts to soften, refrigerate it for about 10 minutes to firm it up again.

Storage Tips

• Store the cheese log in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing is not recommended, as it can affect the texture of the cream cheese. However, you can prepare the mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to shape and serve it.
• When storing leftovers, make sure they are in a covered container to prevent drying out and to keep other refrigerator odors from affecting the flavor of the cheese log.

Gift Packaging Ideas

The festive holiday antipasto cream cheese log with olives and rosemary sprigs makes a wonderful gift for friends, family, or coworkers, especially during the holiday season. Consider packaging it in a decorative tin or a wooden box lined with parchment paper. You can also wrap it in festive holiday paper or a cloth, tied with a ribbon and garnished with a few fresh rosemary sprigs. Accompany the gift with a bag of crackers or a box of artisanal bread for a complete gifting experience.

Flavor Variations

• Different spices: Experiment with adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick or some dried thyme for an earthier flavor.
• Creative toppings: In addition to rosemary, try using other herbs like parsley, basil, or dill. You can also top the cheese log with sliced meats, such as prosciutto or salami, for added protein and flavor.
• Ingredient swaps: Replace the cream cheese with goat cheese or feta for a tangier flavor profile. You can also use different types of olives or add some artichoke hearts for variety.

Troubleshooting

• Texture problems: If the cheese log becomes too soft, refrigerate it for a bit to firm it up. If it’s too hard, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften slightly.
• Ingredient replacements: If you can’t find fresh rosemary, you can substitute it with dried rosemary or another herb of your choice. For olives, you can use different varieties or even capers as a substitute.
• Over/undercooking signs: Since this recipe doesn’t involve cooking, you don’t have to worry about overcooking. However, make sure to refrigerate the cheese log long enough for it to firm up and hold its shape.

FAQs

• Can I freeze it? While it’s possible to freeze the cream cheese mixture before shaping it into a log, freezing the finished log is not recommended as it can affect the texture and consistency of the cheese.
• Is it gluten-free? Yes, this recipe is gluten-free, making it a great option for those with gluten intolerance or preference. Just ensure that any accompaniments, such as crackers or bread, are also gluten-free.
• Can I double the recipe? Absolutely, you can double or even triple the recipe if you’re serving a larger crowd. Just keep in mind that you’ll need to adjust the refrigeration time slightly to ensure the larger log firms up properly.

Conclusion

The festive holiday antipasto cream cheese log with olives and rosemary sprigs is a versatile and delicious recipe that can elevate any holiday gathering. With its ease of preparation, rich flavor profile, and impressive presentation, it’s a perfect dish for both beginners and experienced cooks. Feel free to experiment with different ingredients and toppings to make the recipe your own, and don’t hesitate to share it with friends and family as a thoughtful and tasty gift. Whether you’re looking for a simple appetizer or a centerpiece for your holiday table, this cream cheese log is sure to please and become a new holiday tradition.