If you’re on the hunt for a vibrant party appetizer that bursts with bold flavor and Mediterranean charm, look no further than this Mediterranean Olive Tapenade Cheese Log Recipe. It’s a delightful blend of creamy goat cheese swirled with chopped olives, capers, and fresh herbs, all rolled into a gorgeous log that’s as stunning on the table as it is delicious. This recipe captures the essence of the Mediterranean in every bite, combining salty, tangy, and herby notes into a spreadable delight that’s perfect for any gathering or a simple but elegant snack.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this cheese log lies in its simple yet carefully balanced ingredients. Each component not only adds a unique texture and flavor but also layers beautifully to create a harmonious taste that’s unmistakably Mediterranean.
- 11 oz. soft fresh goat cheese log: Creamy and tangy, goat cheese is the perfect base for richness and smoothness.
- 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and finely chopped: These dark olives bring a deep, fruity saltiness that’s classic in Mediterranean dishes.
- 1/4 cup green olives, pitted and finely chopped: Their bright and slightly bitter flavor adds wonderful contrast.
- 2 tablespoons capers, drained and chopped: Small bursts of briny flavor that elevate the overall tapenade mix.
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped: Adds a fresh, herbal note and a splash of vibrant green color.
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice: Brightens the mixture with just the right touch of acidity.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Provides a gentle savory depth without overpowering.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle kick of warmth.
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese: Salty and crumbly, feta complements the goat cheese’s creaminess perfectly.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Brings everything together with its fruity richness and silky texture.
How to Make Mediterranean Olive Tapenade Cheese Log Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Olive Mixture
Start by combining the chopped Kalamata and green olives in a medium bowl. Give them a good whisk to blend the flavors together evenly. Then, scoop out about three tablespoons of this olive mix to save for coating the cheese log later on. This reserved mixture will add a punch of texture and taste to the outside of the log, making each bite exciting.
Step 2: Mix the Cheese Base
To the remaining olives in the bowl, stir in the fresh lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. These tiny details layer the flavors beautifully and balance out the richness. Next, add the goat cheese (or cream cheese if you’re opting for a milder taste) and mix everything until it turns into a smooth, even blend. This mixture will be the creamy heart of your cheese log.
Step 3: Shape and Chill the Cheese Log
Lay out a generous piece of plastic wrap on your counter, then spoon the cheese mixture onto it. Using the wrap helps you shape the mixture into a neat log. Wrap it up tightly and pop it in the freezer for 20 to 30 minutes. This chilling step firms up the cheese enough to make it easier to coat but keeps it soft enough to spread beautifully when served.
Step 4: Prepare the Tapenade Coating
Line your countertop with parchment paper and add the reserved olive mixture. Stir it gently to combine all those wonderful bits together. Then spread it evenly into a single layer, making a square just larger than your chilled cheese log. This will become the flavorful outer layer that adds both texture and stunning olive pieces to the log’s surface.
Step 5: Coat the Cheese Log
Take the cheese log out of the freezer and place one end at the edge of the tapenade coating. Roll it gently in the mixture, pressing lightly so the olive tapenade sticks evenly all around. This step is crucial because the olive coating forms that signature Mediterranean crunch and zest on the outside, elevating both look and taste.
Step 6: Chill or Serve
You can refrigerate the coated cheese log until you’re ready to serve or dive right in immediately if you’re in a hurry. Either way, let the cheese sit for about 15 minutes before serving to soften slightly for perfect spreadability.
Step 7: Final Touch and Serving
Just before serving, drizzle the cheese log with olive oil for a lovely finish that adds shine and enhances the Mediterranean flavors. It’s also the perfect time to prepare your toast or crackers.
How to Serve Mediterranean Olive Tapenade Cheese Log Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle extra fresh parsley or even some finely chopped fresh oregano on top for a pop of color and herbal freshness. A few whole olives placed nearby can also make a charming garnish that invites guests to dig in.
Side Dishes
The Mediterranean Olive Tapenade Cheese Log Recipe pairs wonderfully with toasted baguette slices, crisp crackers, or crunchy vegetable sticks like cucumber or bell pepper strips. Offering a variety of sides ensures everyone can snack their favorite way and helps keep the presentation colorful and fresh.
Creative Ways to Present
For an impressive party display, arrange the olive cheese log on a wooden board surrounded by pickled vegetables, nuts, and fresh fruit like grapes or figs. You can also slice it into rounds for smaller bites or form mini logs to serve as individual portions. Presentation brings this dish to life and makes it even more inviting.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap the cheese log tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days, making it perfect to prepare in advance for gatherings or to enjoy later as a snack.
Freezing
This cheese log freezes beautifully. Wrap it securely in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Freezing is a great option if you want to make the recipe well ahead of time without losing any of the great flavors.
Reheating
Since this is a chilled cheese dish, reheating isn’t necessary or recommended. Instead, pop it in the fridge to thaw if frozen, and allow it to come to room temperature before serving for the creamiest texture and best flavor experience.
FAQs
Can I use cream cheese instead of goat cheese?
Absolutely! Cream cheese will give you a milder flavor and an extra creamy texture that works wonderfully. You can also do a mix of both to balance tang and creaminess.
Are there alternatives for Kalamata olives?
If you don’t have Kalamata olives on hand, you can substitute them with any other briny, dark olives such as Gaeta olives or even black olives. Just make sure they are pitted and chopped finely.
How long can I keep the cheese log in the fridge?
Properly stored, the cheese log will stay fresh in the refrigerator for about three days. Beyond that, the texture and flavor might start to change, so it’s best enjoyed sooner.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
While the traditional Mediterranean Olive Tapenade Cheese Log Recipe relies on cheese, you can experiment with vegan cream cheese and omit feta. The key will be choosing quality plant-based cheeses for the right texture and tang.
What pairings go well with this cheese log?
Besides classic bread and crackers, this cheese log pairs beautifully with fresh vegetables, roasted nuts, olives, and even cured meats for a full Mediterranean spread.
Final Thoughts
This Mediterranean Olive Tapenade Cheese Log Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that brings the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean right to your table with effortless charm. It’s quick, stunning, and incredibly delicious — the perfect way to elevate any gathering or brighten up an ordinary afternoon snack. Give it a try and watch how fast this beauty disappears among your friends and family!
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Mediterranean Olive Tapenade Cheese Log Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes (including chilling time)
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Mediterranean Olive Tapenade Cheese Log is a flavorful and elegant appetizer combining creamy goat cheese with a zesty olive tapenade coating. Quick to make and perfect for entertaining, this cheese log bursts with Mediterranean flavors of Kalamata and green olives, capers, fresh parsley, and tangy lemon juice. Serve it chilled or at room temperature with toasted baguette slices or crackers for a delightful and easy party snack.
Ingredients
Cheese Log
- 11 oz. soft fresh goat cheese log (may substitute all or part with cream cheese)
- 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and finely chopped
- 1/4 cup green olives, pitted and finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons capers, drained and chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for drizzling)
Instructions
- Prepare olive mixture: In a medium bowl, combine the Kalamata and green olives and whisk gently to mix evenly. Remove 3 tablespoons of this olive mixture to reserve for coating the cheese log later.
- Mix cheese filling: To the remaining olive mixture, stir in fresh lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Add the goat cheese (or cream cheese) and mix thoroughly until well combined and smooth.
- Shape the cheese log: Lay out a large piece of plastic wrap on the countertop. Spoon the cheese mixture onto the plastic wrap and shape it into a log. Wrap tightly and place in the freezer for 20-30 minutes to firm up slightly but remain soft enough for coating to stick.
- Prepare tapenade coating: Line a counter or work surface with parchment paper. Add the reserved olive mixture, capers, parsley, and crumbled feta cheese, stirring to combine into a uniform tapenade spread. Spread this mixture evenly into a single-layer square slightly larger than the cheese log.
- Coat the cheese log: Remove the cheese log from the freezer and place it at the edge of the tapenade coating on the parchment paper. Gently roll the log in the coating, pressing the tapenade to adhere evenly all around the log.
- Chill or serve: Refrigerate the coated cheese log until ready to serve or serve immediately. For best flavor and texture, allow the log to soften at room temperature about 15 minutes before serving.
- Final touch and serving: Just before serving, drizzle the cheese log with olive oil. Serve with toasted baguette slices or crackers for a delicious Mediterranean-inspired appetizer.
Notes
- Substitute cream cheese for goat cheese if a milder flavor or creamier texture is desired.
- Freezing the cheese log briefly firms it for easier rolling but be careful not to freeze it completely solid.
- The tapenade coating can be made a few hours ahead and stored covered in the refrigerator.
- Allowing the cheese log to sit at room temperature before serving improves spreadability and flavor.
- Pair this cheese log with dry white wines or light reds for an ideal Mediterranean pairing.
