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
Scale
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.
