Festive Holiday Antipasto Log

This Festive Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log is the perfect makeahead appetizer that brings together rich ItalianAmerican flavors in a smooth and creamy package. It’s elegant enough for holiday celebrations but simple enough for any party or gathering, requiring no cooking and minimal prep time.

I first made this for a family Christmas gathering, and since then it quickly became a requested favorite every holiday season. It’s the kind of dish that sparks conversation as folks try to guess all the delicious mixins.

Ingredients

• Cream cheese: sixteen ounces softened the creamy base that brings everything together smoothly. Use full fat for best flavor and texture
• Sun dried tomatoes: half a cup finely chopped add tang and chewy texture opt for oil packed for richness
• Black or green olives: half a cup finely chopped give a briny savory pop choose good quality olives without pits
• Roasted red peppers: half a cup finely chopped sweetness and color contrast jarred ones work well if fresh are not available
• Salami or pepperoni: onethird cup finely chopped introduces a smoky meatiness select the best cured meats you like
• Parmesan cheese: onequarter cup grated provides a salty nutty depth
• Fresh parsley: two tablespoons chopped freshness and a mild herbal note
• Italian seasoning: one teaspoon a blend of dried herbs that add that classic Italian character
• Garlic powder: onehalf teaspoon for subtle savory pungency
• Onion powder: onehalf teaspoon rounds out the aromatics
• Red pepper flakes: onequarter teaspoon optional add a gentle heat to balance richness
• Black pepper: onehalf teaspoon freshly ground is best for brightness
• Salt: onequarter teaspoon adjust to taste enhances all other flavors
• For Garnish: Chopped fresh parsley or basil onequarter cup for a festive green coat, Finely chopped roasted red peppers two tablespoons for vivid color accents, Finely chopped olives two tablespoons to highlight the savory flavor, Chopped nuts two tablespoons optional for crunch and texture contrast

Instructions

Prepare the mixture:

In a large bowl thoroughly combine the softened cream cheese with finely chopped sun dried tomatoes, olives, roasted red peppers, salami, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, red pepper flakes if using, black pepper, and salt. Mix with a sturdy spoon or spatula until everything is evenly incorporated into a smooth, spreadable mixture.

Shape the log:

Lay out a large piece of plastic wrap on a clean surface. Spoon the mixture onto the plastic wrap and gather the edges of the wrap to form a log shape. Use your hands to gently but firmly shape and compress the mixture, creating a neat and even log. Wrap tightly in the plastic and refrigerate for at least two hours to allow it to firm up and the flavors to meld together.

Garnish:

Take the chilled cream cheese log out of the fridge and unwrap it carefully. Mix together chopped fresh parsley or basil, finely chopped roasted red peppers, chopped olives, and optional chopped nuts on a plate. Roll the cream cheese log gently in this mixture ensuring a festive and colorful coating adheres on all sides. Press lightly so the garnish sticks well without squashing the log.

Serve:

Place the finished antipasto cream cheese log on a serving platter surrounded by crackers, toasted bread slices, or fresh veggie sticks. Slice into desired thickness just before serving. Enjoy the contrast between the creamy flavorsome log and your favorite crunchy accompaniments.

My favorite ingredient has to be the sundried tomatoes because they add such a wonderful tang and chewy texture that really lifts the mix. One year at a holiday party I watched everyone’s eyes light up when this was first served and they kept coming back for more. It’s always a delight to bring something simple that feels special and garnished so beautifully.

Storage Tips

This cream cheese log keeps beautifully covered in the fridge for up to three days. Make sure it is well wrapped in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container to prevent drying out or absorbing other fridge smells. If you want to prepare it even earlier, the flavors actually deepen the longer it chills.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap the salami or pepperoni for another cured meat like prosciutto or chorizo for a different flavor profile. Try goat cheese instead of cream cheese if you want a tangier taste with the same creamy texture. If you prefer it milder, skip the red pepper flakes or reduce the amount.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with an assortment of crackers or toasted baguette slices to add crunch. Fresh cut vegetable sticks like celery, carrots, and cucumber are a refreshing pairing. Drizzle a little balsamic glaze over the log just before serving to add sweet acidity that complements the savory ingredients beautifully.

This antipasto cream cheese log is an easy makeahead appetizer that looks festive and tastes indulgent. It’s perfect for holiday parties and quick to pull together when you need a crowd pleasing starter.

Your Recipe Questions Answered

→ How long should the antipasto log chill before serving?

Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld and the log to firm up, ensuring easy slicing.

→ Can I substitute the salami in the antipasto log?

Yes, pepperoni or other cured meats work well to maintain the savory, bold flavors in this blend.

→ What garnishes give the antipasto log its festive look?

Chopped fresh parsley, roasted red peppers, olives, and optional nuts create a colorful and textured outer coating.

→ Is it possible to prepare this log ahead of time?

Absolutely, it can be made up to 3 days in advance and kept refrigerated for convenience without losing flavor.

→ How can I add extra flavor before serving?

A light drizzle of balsamic glaze just before serving enhances the tangy, savory profile beautifully.

→ Can I replace cream cheese with another cheese?

Goat cheese is a great alternative, lending a tangier character while retaining the creamy texture.