Mediterranean Olive Tapenade Cheese Log Recipe
If you’re looking for an appetizer that’s as dazzling as it is delicious, the Mediterranean Olive Tapenade Cheese Log will quickly become your new go-to. Creamy cheeses mingle with briny olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and vibrant herbs, all rolled up into an eye-catching log that’s practically begging to be the star of your next gathering. This Mediterranean Olive Tapenade Cheese Log is a breeze to pull together and brings a burst of bold, sunny flavors to any occasion—whether you’re hosting a party, bringing a dish to share, or just treating yourself to something special.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Mediterranean Olive Tapenade Cheese Log lies in its handful of ingredients—each one thoughtfully chosen for its part in building flavor, creamy texture, and visual appeal. A quick glance at your pantry and fridge is all you need to create a show-stopping centerpiece.
- Cream Cheese (8 ounces, softened): The silky base that gives the cheese log its smooth, spreadable richness.
- Goat Cheese (4 ounces, softened): Adds a tangy, luxurious note that pairs perfectly with Mediterranean flavors.
- Black Olives (1/2 cup, finely chopped): Deliver a salty, savory bite and gorgeous dark color.
- Green Olives (1/2 cup, finely chopped): Give a pop of briny sharpness and contrast in both flavor and color.
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes (1/4 cup, chopped): Bring a chewy texture and intense, sweet-tart punch.
- Capers (2 tablespoons, drained): Their tangy, salty zing wakes up the whole dish.
- Fresh Parsley (2 tablespoons, chopped): Adds freshness, color, and a little herbal lift.
- Lemon Zest (1 teaspoon): Brightens everything with a hint of citrus perfume.
- Lemon Juice (1 tablespoon): Balances the richness with a lively touch of acidity.
- Garlic Powder (1/2 teaspoon): Infuses subtle, savory depth without overpowering the cheeses.
- Black Pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Gives a gentle kick and ties all the flavors together.
- Crackers or Sliced Baguette (for serving): The ideal vehicles for scooping up every last bite.
How to Make Mediterranean Olive Tapenade Cheese Log
Step 1: Blend the Cheeses
Start by grabbing a medium mixing bowl and combining your softened cream cheese and goat cheese. Using a spatula or hand mixer, blend them together until the mixture is silky-smooth and fully unified. This luscious base is what makes the Mediterranean Olive Tapenade Cheese Log so irresistibly creamy and easy to spread.
Step 2: Prepare the Tapenade Mixture
In a separate small bowl, toss together the black olives, green olives, sun-dried tomatoes, capers, fresh parsley, lemon zest, lemon juice, garlic powder, and black pepper. Stir everything well so that all the flavors are evenly distributed. This vibrant tapenade not only brings the bold Mediterranean personality but also adds gorgeous color and texture to your cheese log.
Step 3: Shape the Cheese Log
Lay out a large piece of plastic wrap on a clean surface. Scoop the blended cheese mixture onto the center and, using a spatula, shape it into a rough log. Don’t worry about perfection at this stage—the real magic happens in the next step.
Step 4: Top with Tapenade and Roll
Spoon the olive tapenade mixture evenly over the cheese log, gently pressing it in so it adheres to the surface. Roll and shape the cheese and tapenade together, forming a cohesive log. The plastic wrap helps you mold everything tightly, ensuring every bite is loaded with flavor.
Step 5: Chill and Set
Once your Mediterranean Olive Tapenade Cheese Log is shaped and wrapped, place it in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours (or up to 2 days ahead). This chilling time allows the flavors to meld and the log to firm up, making it easy to slice and serve without losing its shape.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Unwrap your perfectly chilled cheese log and transfer it to a pretty serving plate. For an extra flourish, sprinkle with a little more fresh parsley. Serve with your favorite crackers or slices of baguette, and watch as guests dive in for more!
How to Serve Mediterranean Olive Tapenade Cheese Log
Garnishes
A final flurry of freshly chopped parsley or a few extra capers on top makes your Mediterranean Olive Tapenade Cheese Log look absolutely stunning. If you want to go all out, add a drizzle of olive oil or a few slivers of sun-dried tomato for a restaurant-worthy finish that will have your guests reaching for their phones to snap a photo.
Side Dishes
Serve your cheese log alongside crisp veggie sticks, marinated artichokes, or a colorful antipasto platter for a true Mediterranean spread. It also pairs beautifully with a simple salad of arugula and lemon vinaigrette, creating a fresh contrast to the rich, savory cheese log.
Creative Ways to Present
For a playful twist, try making mini Mediterranean Olive Tapenade Cheese Logs for individual servings, or shape the log into a wreath for festive occasions. Arrange crackers and veggies around the log for a dramatic centerpiece, or tuck it onto a charcuterie board as the star attraction.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, simply rewrap the cheese log tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator. It keeps beautifully for up to three days, and the flavors deepen even more as it sits—making it an ideal make-ahead appetizer.
Freezing
While the Mediterranean Olive Tapenade Cheese Log is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze it if needed. Wrap it well in plastic and then in foil, and freeze for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving—just be aware that the texture may be slightly softer after freezing.
Reheating
No reheating needed! This is a no-cook, serve-chilled appetizer. Simply let the cheese log sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving to take the chill off and bring out the full flavors.
FAQs
Can I use only one type Appetizer
Absolutely! If you have a favorite, feel free to use just black or green olives. The combination adds complexity, but a single variety will still make a fabulous Mediterranean Olive Tapenade Cheese Log.
Is there a substitute for goat cheese?
If goat cheese isn’t your thing, swap in more cream cheese or even try ricotta for a milder flavor. The end result will be a bit less tangy but still deliciously creamy.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes, you can use dairy-free cream cheese and a plant-based alternative to goat cheese. The tapenade mixture itself is naturally dairy-free, so this recipe adapts well for vegan guests.
How far in advance can I prepare the cheese log?
You can make the Mediterranean Olive Tapenade Cheese Log up to two days ahead. In fact, the flavors get even better as they have time to meld in the fridge, making it a great stress-free party option.
What are the best crackers or bread to serve with it?
Sturdy, neutral-flavored crackers or sliced baguette work best, as they let the vibrant flavors of your cheese log shine. You can also use gluten-free crackers to keep the appetizer gluten-free for everyone.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking to impress with minimal effort, you simply have to try the Mediterranean Olive Tapenade Cheese Log. Each bite is a celebration of bold flavors and creamy texture, perfect for sharing with friends and family. Give it a go—you’ll be reaching for this recipe again and again!
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Mediterranean Olive Tapenade Cheese Log Recipe
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Mediterranean Olive Tapenade Cheese Log is a flavorful and elegant appetizer combining creamy goat and cream cheeses with a savory olive tapenade. Perfect for parties or casual gatherings, it requires no cooking and can be made ahead, offering a delightful blend of tangy, salty, and fresh flavors that pairs beautifully with crackers or baguette slices.
Ingredients
Cheese Mixture
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 4 ounces goat cheese, softened
Tapenade Mix
- 1/2 cup black olives, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup green olives, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 2 tablespoons capers, drained
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For Serving
- Crackers or sliced baguette
Instructions
- Prepare Cheese Mixture: In a medium bowl, mix the softened cream cheese and goat cheese together until smooth and fully combined, creating a creamy base for the cheese log.
- Make Olive Tapenade: In a separate small bowl, combine the finely chopped black and green olives, sun-dried tomatoes, capers, parsley, lemon zest, lemon juice, garlic powder, and black pepper. Stir thoroughly to blend all ingredients evenly.
- Form the Cheese Log: Lay a sheet of plastic wrap on a clean surface. Spread the cheese mixture on the plastic wrap into a rough log shape, approximately 8 inches long.
- Layer Tapenade: Spoon the olive tapenade mixture evenly over the cheese log, gently pressing the tapenade to adhere to the cheese while shaping the log neatly using the plastic wrap.
- Chill: Wrap the cheese log tightly in the plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow it to firm up and for the flavors to meld together perfectly.
- Serve: Before serving, unwrap the cheese log and transfer it to a serving plate. Garnish with additional fresh parsley if desired. Serve with crackers or sliced baguette.
Notes
- This cheese log can be prepared up to 2 days in advance and kept refrigerated to save time on party day.
- For a spicier variation, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the tapenade mixture to enhance flavor and heat.
- If gluten-free is required, serve with gluten-free crackers instead of baguette slices.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tablespoons
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
