Description
This Mediterranean Olive Tapenade Cheese Log is a creamy, flavorful appetizer featuring a blend of cream cheese and goat cheese combined with a vibrant mix of Kalamata and green olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and roasted red peppers. Rolled in crunchy chopped walnuts or pecans, it’s perfect for serving with crackers or toasted baguette slices at parties or holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
Cheese Mixture
- 8 ounces cream cheese (softened)
- 4 ounces goat cheese (softened)
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives (pitted and finely chopped)
- 1/4 cup green olives (finely chopped)
- 2 tablespoons sun-dried tomatoes (chopped)
- 2 tablespoons roasted red peppers (chopped)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped)
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Coating
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
Serving
- Crackers or toasted baguette slices
Instructions
- Prepare the cheese base: In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and goat cheese together until the mixture is smooth and creamy, ensuring there are no lumps.
- Mix in flavorings: Stir in the finely chopped Kalamata olives, green olives, sun-dried tomatoes, roasted red peppers, fresh parsley, lemon zest, lemon juice, dried oregano, and black pepper. Combine thoroughly to evenly distribute all ingredients.
- Shape and chill: Form the cheese mixture into a log shape and wrap it tightly with plastic wrap. Place the wrapped cheese log in the refrigerator and chill for at least 2 hours, allowing it to firm up and let the flavors meld.
- Coat the log: Before serving, unwrap the chilled cheese log and roll it in the chopped walnuts or pecans to coat the outside evenly, adding a delightful crunch.
- Serve: Transfer the coated cheese log to a serving platter and serve with crackers or toasted baguette slices for a delicious appetizer experience.
Notes
- This cheese log can be made up to 3 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator to save prep time.
- For an extra burst of flavor, drizzle a little olive oil over the cheese log just before serving.
- To vary the texture and taste, substitute walnuts with pistachios or almonds for the coating.
- Ensure serving with gluten-free crackers if accommodating a gluten-free diet.
