Cheese Log with Roasted Peppers, Salami, and Sun-Dried Tomatoes Recipe
This flavorful Cheese Log is a creamy, savory appetizer combining softened cream cheese with a medley of herbs, spices, cheddar cheese, and colorful mix-ins like roasted peppers, salami, green olives, and sun-dried tomatoes. Perfectly chilled and garnished with fresh parsley and rosemary, it’s an inviting party staple served alongside crackers.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves 12 as an appetizer
- 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
- Extra sun-dried tomatoes with oil for topping
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan: Spray a 9×5 loaf pan with oil and line it with plastic wrap, leaving enough overhang on the sides to easily lift the cheese log out later.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, thyme, oregano, basil, rosemary, black pepper, garlic powder, kosher salt, red pepper flakes, freshly grated cheddar cheese, roasted peppers, finely chopped salami, chopped green olives, minced green onion, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, and chopped parsley. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly incorporated. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Form the Cheese Log: Transfer the cheese mixture to the prepared loaf pan. Press the mixture firmly into the pan, ensuring there are no air pockets, to create a compact, even log shape. Cover the pan with plastic wrap over the top.
- Chill: Refrigerate the cheese log for at least 4 hours, or until it is firm and well set for easy slicing.
- Unmold and Garnish: Using the plastic wrap overhang, lift the cheese log out of the pan and place it on a serving platter. Remove the plastic wrap from the top. Top the log with extra sun-dried tomatoes and oil for added flavor and richness. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and rosemary sprigs.
- Serve: Let the cheese log sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes to soften slightly before serving. Serve with an assortment of crackers.
Notes
- For best results, use full-fat cream cheese and fresh grated cheddar cheese to enhance flavor and texture.
- You can customize the herbs and spices based on your preference or omit red pepper flakes for a milder log.
- Ensure all mix-ins like peppers, olives, and salami are finely chopped for a smooth texture.
- Allowing the log to soften slightly at room temperature before serving improves spreadability.
- Store the cheese log covered in the refrigerator and consume within 3-4 days for freshness.
