The holiday season is more than just a festive collection of decorations, music, gift exchanges, and holiday lights—it’s a complete sensory experience that brings people together. And food, of course, is at the very heart of most celebrations. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party, a New Year’s gathering, a cozy winter game night, or a family get-together, one truth remains: an unforgettable appetizer can set the tone for the entire event. This is where the Antipasto Cream Cheese Log shines as a hero among holiday appetizers.

This recipe combines everything people love about a classic Italian antipasto platter—salami, olives, roasted peppers, herbs, and cheese—into one striking, colorful, flavorful cream cheese log that delivers convenience, elegance, and indulgence all at once. Whether served with crackers, crostini, breadsticks, or fresh vegetables, this appetizer transforms a simple snack table into an eye-catching, gourmet display.

In this article, we dive deep into the story behind the antipasto platter, explore why the cream cheese log has become a holiday essential in many households, and provide detailed step-by-step instructions so you can make the perfect version every time. From tips on selecting the right ingredients to creating visually stunning holiday presentations, you’ll gain a complete understanding of how to elevate a simple cream cheese log into a centerpiece worthy of any celebration.

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Understanding the Antipasto Tradition

“Antipasto” comes from the Italian phrase meaning “before the meal.” It’s a starter course designed to awaken the senses and prepare the palate. Traditional antipasto items often include cured meats, cheeses, brined vegetables, roasted peppers, olives, marinated artichokes, sundried tomatoes, and herbs.

The beauty of antipasto is its flexibility—it’s colorful, customizable, and packed with intense flavors. When these same elements are incorporated into a cream cheese base, the result is a spreadable, sliceable, deeply savory appetizer that feels comforting and familiar but also elevated and gourmet.

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Why Choose an Antipasto Cream Cheese Log?

Here’s why this recipe is a must-make for your holiday table:

Effortless yet impressive

With only minimal prep work, you can create a dish that looks like it took hours.

Versatile pairings

Serve it with:

• Crackers
• Breadsticks
• Warm baguette slices
• Crostini
• Pita chips
• Cucumbers or celery sticks

Perfect make-ahead option

Prepare the log the day before your event so flavors meld beautifully.

Crowd-pleasing flavors

Italian flavors are universally loved, which makes this an excellent choice for large gatherings.

Visually stunning presentation

Its color contrast—greens from herbs, reds from peppers, dark olives, marbled salami—makes it holiday-ready.

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Pro Tips for the Perfect Texture

• Use full-fat cream cheese for the richest consistency.
• Ensure cream cheese is room temperature before mixing.
• Chop ingredients very finely for even distribution.
• Shape the log tightly so it slices cleanly.
• Chill at least 1–2 hours before serving.

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INGREDIENTS

For the Cream Cheese Mixture

• 16 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup finely chopped salami
• 1/3 cup chopped black olives
• 1/3 cup chopped green olives
• 1/3 cup chopped roasted red peppers
• 2 tbsp finely chopped parsley
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp salt

For Coating the Outside

• 1/2 cup additional chopped salami
• 1/4 cup chopped parsley
• 1/4 cup chopped black or green olives
• 1 tbsp roasted red peppers (optional)

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INSTRUCTIONS

1. In a large mixing bowl, add softened cream cheese and beat until smooth.
2. Add chopped salami, olives, roasted red peppers, parsley, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until fully combined.
3. Lay a large sheet of plastic wrap on your counter.
4. Scoop the cream cheese mixture onto the wrap and shape into a log.
5. In a separate shallow dish, spread out the coating ingredients (salami, parsley, olives, and roasted red peppers).
6. Roll the cheese log over the coating mixture until the outside is fully covered.
7. Wrap the log tightly in plastic wrap to secure its shape.
8. Refrigerate for at least 1–2 hours before serving.
9. To serve, place on a platter with crackers, breadsticks, crostini, and fresh herbs.
10. Store any leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

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Additional Creative Sections

How to Serve This Appetizer Like a Pro

Presentation is everything, especially during the holidays. Place your cream cheese log on a white platter for contrast. Surround it with crackers, sliced Italian baguette, breadsticks, and clusters of olives. Add fresh rosemary or thyme for a fragrant finishing touch.

Flavor Variations You Can Try

• Spicy Version: Add chopped pepperoncini and crushed red pepper flakes.
• Italian Herb Burst: Add basil, oregano, or even pesto.
• Meat Lover’s Log: Add pepperoni, prosciutto, or soppressata.
• Veggie-Loaded: Add chopped artichoke hearts, sun-dried tomatoes, or capers.

Make-Ahead & Storage Tips

This appetizer is perfect for meal prep. Store it wrapped tightly in plastic wrap for 3–4 days. You can even freeze it (before coating) for up to 2 months.