Tasty Italian Cheese Log

Take boring cream cheese up a notch with this fabulous Italian-style starter that packs all the zesty flavors of a classic antipasto spread. This tasty cheese log combines rich salami, zesty sun-dried tomatoes, and punchy olives in a smooth, party-ready format that'll wow your guests without breaking a sweat.

The first time I brought this to a Christmas bash, everyone thought I'd bought it from some fancy shop. Here's a little trick - let it sit in the fridge overnight. That extra time lets all those Mediterranean tastes blend together into something amazing.

Key Components

• Cream Cheese: Don't skimp on low-fat versions - you need the real deal, completely soft for easy mixing
• Salami: Splurge on premium dry-cured stuff for that authentic taste
• Sun-dried Tomatoes: Get the oil-packed kind for juicier flavor and better mouthfeel
• Green Olives: Cut them by hand for the perfect chunky bits throughout
• Fresh Herbs: These really pump up the freshness and taste profile
• Roasted Peppers: Make sure they're super dry to keep your mixture from getting soggy

Step-By-Step Process

Step 1:

Set out your cream cheese and sour cream to get totally soft

Step 2:

Chop everything into tiny pieces first so it'll spread evenly

Step 3:

Whip that cream cheese until it's super smooth before you add anything else

Step 4:

Start by mixing in the herbs and spices with your cream cheese base

Step 5:

Slowly add the shredded cheese to keep everything fluffy

Step 6:

Mix in your chopped goodies little by little with gentle stirring

Step 7:

Push everything firmly into your container to get rid of any air bubbles

Step 8:

Use a flat knife to make the top nice and even

Step 9:

Cover it up tight with plastic wrap touching the cheese

Step 10:

Make sure it's super cold before you take it out of the mold

Stunning Presentation Ideas

Surround your cheese log with sprigs of herbs, tiny tomatoes, and different olive types to create a gorgeous antipasto spread everyone will snap photos of.

Prep-Ahead Bonus

This app actually tastes better after a day or two, which is a total lifesaver when you've got a ton of party prep.

Save it

My nonna always told me great antipasto needs time for the flavors to mingle and make friends. This recipe totally backs her up - it tastes way better after sitting overnight.

I've become known for bringing this antipasto cheese log to every party. It's so handy to make it ahead, but it looks like something from a fancy food shop. The best part? Everyone always asks me for the recipe - and isn't that the biggest compliment a cook can get?

Tasty Serving Companions

• Mixed crackers with crunchy and soft options
• Crisp veggies like baby tomatoes and sliced cucumbers
• Jarred artichoke hearts and sweet roasted red peppers
• More Italian meats such as prosciutto or capicola
• Fresh basil and rosemary sprigs

Tweaking For Any Event

This recipe works for practically any gathering:

• Form tiny individual logs for smaller dinner parties
• Make twice as much for big holiday crowds
• Shape it into a festive ring for Christmas or other holidays
• Roll into bite-sized balls for casual snacking

Serving Temperature Advice

• Get it out of the fridge 30 minutes early so it spreads easier
• For outdoor parties, set the dish on some ice to keep it fresh
• Pop it back in the fridge during long get-togethers

Drink Suggestions

• A nice Chianti Classico or other medium Italian red wine
• Light, refreshing Pinot Grigio or Vermentino
• Bubbly Prosecco for special occasions
• For non-drinkers, sparkling water with lemon or lime

Save it

In our family, this cheese log shows up at our yearly holiday open house without fail. We've learned to make extra batches because guests always want to take leftovers home!

Our antipasto cheese log has earned its spot as the star app at all our parties. It walks that perfect line between casual and fancy, and you can make it way ahead of time - what's not to love? Whether you're having a few friends over or throwing a massive bash, this appetizer brings both good looks and amazing flavor to your table.

Common Questions

→ Can I prepare this cheese log days before serving?

You can make it up to a week early and keep it wrapped tight in your fridge.

→ What's the ideal way to enjoy this cheese log?

Take it out of the fridge about 30 minutes before eating and pair with hearty crackers like Ritz or Triscuits.

→ Is this cheese log okay to freeze?

I don't suggest freezing it because cream cheese gets crumbly after thawing.

→ Can I skip the salami in this recipe?

Sure, you can swap in diced ham or skip the meat altogether for a veggie-friendly option.

→ Why should I grate my own cheese?

Cheese you grate yourself mixes in better and doesn't have those powdery additives found in bagged shredded cheese.