If you love bold flavors and irresistible party appetizers, the Mediterranean Olive Tapenade Cheese Log Recipe is about to become your new favorite go-to dish. Creamy, tangy, and bursting with the briny goodness of olives and sun-dried tomatoes, this cheese log combines soft cream cheese and goat cheese melded with a vibrant tapenade. It’s an effortless yet impressive appetizer that brings the sunny Mediterranean right to your table, perfect for gatherings or a delicious snack any time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, high-quality ingredients is key to nailing this flavorful recipe. Each one adds a distinct note—from creamy texture to a bright pop of brine or herbal freshness—that creates a perfect balance in the cheese log.
- Cream cheese (8 ounces, softened): Provides a rich, smooth base that blends effortlessly with tangier components.
- Goat cheese (4 ounces, softened): Adds a luscious tang and creaminess for depth.
- Kalamata olives (1/2 cup, pitted and finely chopped): Offer a bold, fruity saltiness essential to Mediterranean flavors.
- Green olives (1/4 cup, pitted and finely chopped): Bring a milder briny bite to contrast the kalamatas.
- Sun-dried tomatoes (2 tablespoons, finely chopped): Contribute a sweet, chewy tang that brightens the mix.
- Capers (1 tablespoon, rinsed and chopped): Deliver a sharp, piquant punch that enhances the olive tapenade’s complexity.
- Fresh lemon juice (1 teaspoon): Adds brightness and cuts through the richness beautifully.
- Garlic (1 clove, minced): Provides a subtle savory warmth without overpowering the dish.
- Fresh parsley (1 tablespoon, chopped): Lends a fresh herbal lift for color and flavor.
- Dried oregano (1/2 teaspoon): Evokes the classic Mediterranean herb notes that bring the whole tapenade alive.
- Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Adds just a hint of heat to balance the richness.
- Chopped fresh herbs or crushed nuts (optional, for coating): Provide an attractive, flavorful finishing touch and textural contrast.
How to Make Mediterranean Olive Tapenade Cheese Log Recipe
Step 1: Blend the Cream and Goat Cheeses
Start by combining the softened cream cheese and goat cheese in a medium bowl. Stir them together until smooth and well integrated—this creates a silky base that will carry all the delicious flavors of the tapenade evenly throughout the cheese log.
Step 2: Mix in the Tapenade Ingredients
Next, add the finely chopped kalamata and green olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and capers. Pour in the fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, chopped parsley, dried oregano, and black pepper. Stir everything until evenly distributed and you have a beautifully textured mixture filled with vibrant medley of flavors.
Step 3: Shape and Chill the Cheese Log
Use a sheet of plastic wrap to scoop up the cheese mixture and mold it into a log shape. Wrap it tightly to keep its form and pop it into the refrigerator for at least one hour. Chilling firms up the cheese, making it easy to slice or spread later.
Step 4: Add Optional Coatings
After chilling, you can roll your Mediterranean Olive Tapenade Cheese Log in chopped fresh herbs like parsley or basil, or even crushed nuts for an extra crunch and visual appeal. These coatings are optional but transform the cheese log into a show-stopping centerpiece.
How to Serve Mediterranean Olive Tapenade Cheese Log Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of extra chopped parsley or a few whole olives on top adds a fresh, polished look and a burst of color. A drizzle of good-quality olive oil can also enrich the flavor just before serving.
Side Dishes
This cheese log pairs wonderfully with crisp crackers, toasted crostini, or an assortment of fresh veggie sticks like cucumber, bell pepper, and carrot. The saltiness and creaminess of the cheese balance perfectly against crunchy, neutral dippers.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, slice the cheese log into rounds and arrange them on a platter surrounded by bright olives and wedges of lemon. Or serve mini cheese log bites threaded onto toothpicks alongside a Mediterranean mezze spread for an eye-catching snack station.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can prepare the Mediterranean Olive Tapenade Cheese Log Recipe up to three days in advance. Keep it tightly wrapped in plastic wrap or an airtight container in the fridge to preserve freshness and flavor.
Freezing
Freezing is not recommended for this recipe as the texture of the cheese and tapenade can become gritty or watery upon thawing, which diminishes the creamy mouthfeel that makes this dish so delightful.
Reheating
This recipe is best served cold or at room temperature. Simply let the cheese log sit out for 10 to 15 minutes before serving to soften up perfectly, allowing the flavors to shine without the need for reheating.
FAQs
Can I use other types of olives in this recipe?
Absolutely! While kalamata and green olives are classic choices for that authentic Mediterranean flavor, you can experiment with other olives such as Castelvetrano or Niçoise to tailor the taste to your preference.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, the Mediterranean Olive Tapenade Cheese Log Recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just be sure to serve it with gluten-free crackers or veggies if you are catering to gluten sensitivities.
Can I substitute goat cheese with another cheese?
You can swap goat cheese with creamier cheeses like ricotta or mascarpone, but be aware it will alter the tangy flavor profile which the goat cheese uniquely provides.
How long does the cheese log last in the refrigerator?
When stored properly wrapped, this cheese log stays fresh for up to three days. Always check for any off smells before serving, but with fresh ingredients it’s best enjoyed within this timeframe.
Can I make smaller individual cheese logs?
Definitely! Forming smaller logs or even bite-sized balls is a great way to serve this appetizer at parties, making it easy to grab and enjoy without utensils.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the Mediterranean Olive Tapenade Cheese Log Recipe that makes every gathering more vibrant and delicious. It’s the kind of dish that feels both indulgent and fresh, simple yet sophisticated. I encourage you to dive in, make this at home, and watch it quickly become a beloved staple in your entertaining arsenal. Once you try it, you’ll be sharing this gem with friends and family over and over again!
Print
Mediterranean Olive Tapenade Cheese Log Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Mediterranean Olive Tapenade Cheese Log is a flavorful and easy-to-make appetizer combining creamy goat and cream cheeses with a tangy mix of kalamata and green olives, sun-dried tomatoes, capers, and fresh herbs. Perfect for entertaining, this no-bake cheese log can be prepared ahead, chilled to firm, and served with crackers or fresh vegetables, making it an elegant addition to any holiday or casual gathering.
Ingredients
Cheese Mixture
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 4 ounces goat cheese, softened
Tapenade Mix
- 1/2 cup kalamata olives, pitted and finely chopped
- 1/4 cup green olives, pitted and finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons sun-dried tomatoes, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon capers, rinsed and chopped
- 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Optional Coating
- Chopped fresh herbs or crushed nuts for coating
Instructions
- Mix Cheeses: In a medium bowl, blend together the softened cream cheese and goat cheese until the mixture is smooth and well combined, ensuring no lumps remain.
- Add Tapenade Ingredients: Stir in the finely chopped kalamata olives, green olives, sun-dried tomatoes, capers, lemon juice, minced garlic, fresh parsley, dried oregano, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly to evenly incorporate all ingredients into the cheese base.
- Shape the Cheese Log: Scoop the mixture onto a sheet of plastic wrap. Using the plastic wrap, shape and roll the mixture into a tight log. Wrap it securely to maintain shape.
- Chill the Cheese Log: Place the wrapped cheese log into the refrigerator and chill for at least 1 hour to allow it to firm up and the flavors to meld together perfectly.
- Optional Coating: If desired, unwrap the chilled cheese log and roll it in chopped fresh herbs, crushed nuts, or additional chopped olives to enhance texture and presentation.
- Serve: Slice or spread the cheese log onto crackers, crostini, or fresh vegetables and serve immediately for a delicious Mediterranean appetizer.
Notes
- This cheese log can be prepared up to 3 days in advance; keep it tightly wrapped and refrigerated until ready to serve.
- For the best texture and flavor, remove the cheese log from the fridge 10–15 minutes before serving to allow it to soften slightly.
- Try different coatings such as crushed pistachios, chopped basil, or thyme to customize your cheese log.
