Cheese Log with Roasted Peppers, Salami, and Sun-Dried Tomatoes Recipe
This savory Cheese Log recipe is a flavorful and elegant appetizer perfect for gatherings. It combines creamy cream cheese and sour cream with a medley of herbs, sharp cheddar, roasted peppers, salami, olives, green onions, and sun-dried tomatoes, all shaped into a loaf and chilled. Garnished with fresh parsley and rosemary, it pairs beautifully with crackers for a delightful snack or party treat.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Cheese Log Mixture
- 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
- ⅓ cup sour cream
- ½ teaspoon thyme
- ½ teaspoon oregano
- ½ teaspoon basil
- ½ teaspoon rosemary
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 2 cups cheddar cheese, freshly grated
- 9 ounces roasted peppers, drained and chopped
- 6 ounces salami, finely chopped
- ¾ cup green olives, chopped
- ⅓ cup green onion, minced
- 7 ounces sun-dried tomatoes in oil, chopped
- ¼ cup parsley, chopped
Garnish
- Rosemary sprigs for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare Pan: Spray a 9x5 loaf pan with oil and line it with plastic wrap, leaving some overhang to facilitate removing the cheese log later.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, herbs (thyme, oregano, basil, rosemary), black pepper, garlic powder, kosher salt, red pepper flakes, freshly grated cheddar, roasted peppers, chopped salami, chopped green olives, minced green onions, sun-dried tomatoes, and chopped parsley. Mix well until evenly blended and adjust seasoning to taste.
- Form Cheese Log: Press the cheese mixture firmly into the prepared loaf pan, ensuring no air pockets remain. Cover the top and refrigerate for at least 4 hours to allow it to set.
- Unmold and Garnish: After chilling, turn the cheese log out onto a serving platter and carefully remove the plastic wrap. Top with some of the sun-dried tomatoes and the oil from the tomatoes for added flavor.
- Final Touches and Serving: Garnish the cheese log with fresh parsley and rosemary sprigs. Allow the cheese log to warm slightly at room temperature before serving it with crackers for the best texture and taste.
Notes
- Softening the cream cheese before mixing ensures a smooth and creamy texture.
- Adjust red pepper flakes to your preferred spice level.
- You can prepare the cheese log a day ahead, which allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Serve with assorted crackers, sliced baguette, or fresh vegetables for variety.
- Remove from fridge about 15-20 minutes before serving to improve spreadability.
