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Cheese Log with Pesto and Sun Dried Tomatoes

Cheese Log with Pesto and Sun-Dried Tomatoes for Festive Fun

This Cheese Log with Pesto and Sun-Dried Tomatoes is a delightful appetizer that elevates any gathering in just minutes.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Chilling Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 8 slices
Course: Appetizers
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 150

Ingredients
  

For the Base
  • 8 oz Cream Cheese consider using Neufchâtel cheese for a lighter option
  • 1/2 cup Basil Pesto can substitute with sun-dried tomato pesto
  • 1/2 cup Sun-Dried Tomatoes can substitute with roasted red peppers
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese grated Pecorino Romano can be used
For the Coating
  • 1/2 cup Toasted Walnuts can substitute with chopped pecans or almonds
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley chives can be used as an alternative

Equipment

  • hand mixer
  • Medium-sized bowl
  • Plastic wrap
  • plate

Method
 

Preparation Steps
  1. Start by ensuring your cream cheese is softened at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Then, use a hand mixer to beat the cream cheese in a medium-sized bowl until it reaches a smooth and fluffy consistency, about 2 to 3 minutes.
  2. Divide the smooth cream cheese mixture in half. In one bowl, gently fold in the basil pesto until fully combined. In another bowl, mix together the remaining cream cheese with diced sun-dried tomatoes and grated Parmesan.
  3. Lay out a large piece of plastic wrap on your countertop. Spread the sun-dried tomato mixture into a rectangular shape, about ½ inch thick. Layer the pesto-infused cream cheese mixture on top.
  4. Using the edges of the plastic wrap, lift one side of the assembly and begin to roll it tightly into a log shape, securing the filling as you go. Twist the ends of the plastic wrap to seal.
  5. Place the wrapped cheese log in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight for the best results.
  6. Once chilled, unwrap the log. Spread out chopped toasted walnuts and finely chopped parsley on a plate. Roll the log in this mixture, pressing gently.
  7. Transfer the coated cheese log onto a serving platter and garnish with additional parsley or whole sun-dried tomatoes. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 150kcalCarbohydrates: 5gProtein: 6gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 230mgPotassium: 150mgFiber: 1gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 3mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 1mg

Notes

For best results, ensure cream cheese is softened, chill thoroughly, and experiment with unique ingredients for flavor enhancement.

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