Description
This Roasted Red Pepper Swirled Antipasto Cream Cheese Log is a visually appealing and flavorful appetizer perfect for parties or gatherings. It features a creamy cheese base swirled with a vibrant roasted red pepper puree and savory Mediterranean ingredients.
Ingredients
Scale
- 250g (8½oz) Cream Cheese, Softened: Ensure it’s at room temperature for a smooth texture.
- 30g (2Tbsp) Grated Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated is best for intense flavor.
- 30g (2Tbsp) Sun-dried Tomatoes, Chopped: Oil-packed, drained well.
- 30g (2Tbsp) Kalamata Olives, Finely Chopped: Pitted for convenience.
- 15g (1Tbsp) Capers, Rinsed: Briefly rinsed to reduce saltiness.
- 5g (1tsp) Dried Oregano: Or Italian seasoning.
- 2.5g (½tsp) Black Pepper, Freshly Ground: For robust flavor.
- 1.2g (¼tsp) Smoked Paprika: Adds smokiness.
- 1 Large Red Bell Pepper: Roasted for sweetness and color.
- 15g (1Tbsp) Olive Oil: For a smooth puree.
- 5g (1tsp) Maple Syrup: Balances the savory flavors.
- Pinch of Sea Salt: Enhances flavors.
- Extra-virgin Olive Oil (for drizzling): For flavor and shine.
- Fresh Basil Leaves (for garnish): Adds color and aroma.
Instructions
- Roast Pepper: Roast red pepper at 220°C (425°F) for 15-20 minutes, blister skin. Steam to loosen skin.
- Make Purée: Peel pepper, blend with olive oil, maple syrup, and salt until smooth.
- Combine Cheese: Beat cream cheese, mix in Parmesan, oregano, paprika, pepper, tomatoes, olives, and capers.
- Shape Log: Spread mixture on parchment, form a rectangle, and roll tightly with red pepper purée.
- Chill: Wrap and chill for at least 1 hour to firm up.
- Slice & Serve: Unwrap, slice, drizzle with olive oil, and garnish with basil.
Notes
For a more defined swirl, use a piping bag for the red pepper puree. This log can be made 2-3 days in advance.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Rolling
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 8
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 200 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 8 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 30 mg
Keywords: antipasto,cream cheese,roasted red pepper,appetizer,party,mediterranean,easy,snack,dip