Description
A creamy, colorful, and flavor-packed Christmas appetiser that brings together the best of antipasto ingredients in one stunning cheese log. Perfect for festive gatherings, easy to prepare ahead, and designed to impress with both taste and presentation.
Ingredients
500g (1 lb) cream cheese, softened
1/3 cup sour cream (or yogurt/mayo)
1/2 tsp each thyme, oregano, basil, rosemary, black pepper (or 1 tsp Italian seasoning)
1 tsp each garlic powder, salt, red pepper/chilli flakes (adjust to taste)
2 cups freshly grated cheddar or other melting cheese (e.g. Swiss, Gruyere, Asiago)
280g (9 oz) roasted peppers, drained and finely chopped
180g (6 oz) salami, finely chopped
3/4 cup green olives, finely chopped
1/3 cup green onion, finely minced (3–4 stalks)
220g (7 oz) sun-dried tomato strips in oil, roughly chopped
1/4 cup chopped parsley or chives
Rosemary sprigs for garnish
Crackers for serving
Instructions
1. Line a loaf pan with cling wrap and lightly grease.
2. Mix all cheese log ingredients in a bowl until well combined; taste and adjust salt.
3. Transfer mixture to the pan, press down to remove air gaps, and smooth the top.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or up to 1 week.
5. Unmold onto a serving platter, remove wrap, and top with sun-dried tomatoes and their oil.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley and rosemary.
7. Let sit to reach near room temperature before serving with crackers.
Notes
If using spreadable cream cheese from tubs, skip sour cream.
Sour cream can be substituted with yogurt or mayo.
Freshly grating cheese gives better texture and flavor.
Avoid mozzarella; it’s too mild for this mix.
Hot salami adds punch; deli-sliced salami is easiest to chop.
For vegetarian, omit salami and add 1/2 cup grated parmesan.
Other mix-in ideas: chopped artichokes, capers, pickled vegetables, or bacon.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Christmas Dinner Ideas
- Method: No-cook, chilled appetiser
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion (about 60g)
- Calories: 278
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 876mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 64mg