Cheese Log Pesto Sun-Dried Tomatoes (Printable Format)

Cream cheese blend with pesto and sun-dried tomatoes, wrapped and coated for a savory appetizer.

# Needed Ingredients:

→ Cheese Log

01 - 16 oz cream cheese, softened
02 - 1/2 cup basil pesto
03 - 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, finely chopped
04 - 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, finely grated

→ Coating

05 - 1/4 cup toasted walnuts, finely chopped
06 - 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

→ Serving Suggestions

07 - Assorted crackers
08 - Fresh vegetables, such as carrot sticks, celery, or cucumber slices

# Preparation Steps:

01 - Place softened cream cheese in a mixing bowl and beat with a hand mixer until smooth and fluffy.
02 - Divide the cream cheese evenly between two bowls. In the first bowl, blend in the basil pesto until fully incorporated. In the second bowl, mix in the sun-dried tomatoes and grated Parmesan cheese.
03 - Lay a sheet of plastic wrap on a flat surface. Using a spatula, spread the sun-dried tomato and Parmesan mixture into a rectangle about 1/2 inch thick. Evenly spread the pesto mixture over the sun-dried tomato layer.
04 - Carefully roll the layered mixture into a log using the plastic wrap, keeping it tight and even. Twist the ends of the wrap to seal.
05 - Refrigerate the wrapped log for at least 2 hours, or until firm and set for easy slicing.
06 - Unwrap the chilled log. Spread the chopped toasted walnuts and parsley on a plate. Gently roll the log in the mixture, pressing lightly so the coating adheres evenly on all sides.
07 - Transfer the finished cheese log to a serving platter. Arrange crackers and fresh vegetables around the log. Serve chilled or allow to reach room temperature before serving.

# Supplementary Details:

01 - For clean slices, use a sharp knife wiped clean between cuts. Bring to room temperature for easier spreading.