If you’re looking to wow your guests with a dish that’s just as stunning as it is delicious, you have to try this Italian Antipasto Cream Cheese Log. It’s a celebration of vibrant Mediterranean flavors—think briny olives, sweet roasted peppers, savory salami, and creamy cheese—all swirled together into the ultimate appetizer. Whether it’s for a party, picnic, or simple family get-together, this recipe combines bold antipasto flavors with the irresistible richness of cream cheese, making it a surefire crowd-pleaser and a new staple on your table.

Italian Antipasto Cream Cheese Log Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients makes all the difference with this Italian Antipasto Cream Cheese Log. Each component brings its own spark—color from the peppers, tang from the olives, and a satisfying texture from the nuts—guaranteeing your finished log is both eye-catching and crave-worthy.

Cream Cheese: The velvety base that keeps every bite luscious and tangy.
Salami (finely diced): Adds a savory, meaty richness that pairs perfectly with creamy cheese.
Roasted Red Peppers (chopped): Sweet and colorful, they offer a delightful pop in both flavor and appearance.
Kalamata Olives (pitted and chopped): For a briny punch that brings real Mediterranean character.
Fresh Parsley (chopped): Offers a fresh, herby lift and enhances visual appeal.
Sundried Tomatoes (chopped): Bring a tangy sweetness and chewy texture that wakes up the creaminess.
Pine Nuts (toasted): These add a buttery crunch—don’t skip the toasting for the best flavor!
Italian Seasoning: Ties all the savory elements together in a harmonious blend.
Cracked Black Pepper: Adds subtle heat and rounds out the medley of flavors.

How to Make Italian Antipasto Cream Cheese Log

Step 1: Soften and Prepare the Cream Cheese

Allow the cream cheese to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This softens it just enough to make mixing easy, while ensuring the finished log is silky and spreadable. Trust me, this step makes blending all those tasty add-ins a breeze!

Step 2: Mix the Antipasto Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese with the diced salami, roasted red peppers, Kalamata olives, sundried tomatoes, parsley, pine nuts, Italian seasoning, and black pepper. It sometimes helps to use a sturdy spatula or a handheld mixer on low—the goal is to evenly distribute those colorful, zippy bits throughout the cream cheese without breaking them up too much.

Step 3: Shape the Log

Transfer the creamy, chunky mixture onto a large piece of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Using clean hands or a spatula, gently roll and shape it into a log roughly 8 inches long and 2-3 inches thick. The wrap makes it easy to coax the cheese into a firm, even cylinder.

Step 4: Chill for Best Texture

Wrap up your Italian Antipasto Cream Cheese Log tightly and refrigerate for at least 2 hours—overnight is even better! Chilling not only sets the log for effortless slicing, but it also lets all the bold flavors truly meld.

Step 5: Unwrap and Serve

When you’re ready to serve, carefully unwrap the log and transfer it to a serving board or platter. If you’re feeling fancy, scatter a little extra parsley or some chopped olives on top for added flair. Grab those crackers or crostini and dig in—your masterpiece is ready!

How to Serve Italian Antipasto Cream Cheese Log

Garnishes

This appetizer just begs to be dressed up! I like to scatter extra chopped parsley, bits of sun-dried tomato, or a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts across the top. For an added touch, try a light drizzle of high-quality olive oil. Every garnish boosts both the good looks and the flavor of your Italian Antipasto Cream Cheese Log.

Side Dishes

Looking for the perfect pairing? Serve your log alongside crisp crostini, seeded breadsticks, or a vintage-cracker assortment so guests can scoop and spread. To round out the spread, consider a simple salad tossed in balsamic vinaigrette, marinated artichokes, or even a platter of fresh, crunchy vegetables—all delicious matches with the lively flavors of this log.

Creative Ways to Present

Upgrade your presentation by slicing the log into medallions for individual appetizer plates, or nestle it among a vibrant antipasto platter full of cured meats, cheeses, and pickled vegetables. Mini logs or bite-sized “cheese ball” portions make relaxing, grab-and-go nibbles—great for parties where guests will be mingling.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, simply wrap your Italian Antipasto Cream Cheese Log tightly in fresh plastic wrap or an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to four days, ready for snacks or an impromptu appetizer at any moment.

Freezing

Good news—this log freezes beautifully! Wrap the unsliced log securely in a double layer of plastic wrap and place it in a freezer bag. It will keep for up to a month. Allow it to thaw slowly in the refrigerator before serving for best results.

Reheating

There’s no need to reheat this dish—it’s meant to be served chilled or at cool room temperature. If it’s too firm straight from the fridge, simply let it sit out for 10–15 minutes to become perfectly spreadable again.

FAQs

Can I make the Italian Antipasto Cream Cheese Log ahead of time?

Absolutely! In fact, this appetizer actually tastes even better when made a day in advance, as the flavors have more time to blend. Just store it wrapped tightly in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.

Are there vegetarian alternatives for the salami?

You can swap the salami for finely chopped marinated artichokes, grilled zucchini, or extra sundried tomatoes to craft a delicious vegetarian version without sacrificing that classic antipasto vibe.

What’s the best way to slice and serve the log?

Use a small, sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped dry between slices. Serve with sturdy crackers or baguette slices—your guests will appreciate the neat presentation and easy spreading!

Can I use low-fat cream cheese?

Yes, you can use low-fat or even non-dairy cream cheese alternatives, though the log will be slightly softer. Chilling well will help keep its shape, so give it extra time to set up in the fridge if needed.

What are some creative ingredient swaps?

Try mixing in chopped artichoke hearts, capers, pepperoncini, or feta for new Mediterranean twists. Pistachios or walnuts can swap in for pine nuts if you want a different crunch!

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for an easy yet unforgettable appetizer that bursts with flavor, the Italian Antipasto Cream Cheese Log is a must. Bring it to your next gathering, and watch it disappear—then be ready to share the recipe with everyone who asks!