If you’re searching for the ultimate Mediterranean party appetizer, look no further than this Mediterranean Olive Tapenade Cheese Log. It’s a vibrant celebration of bold flavors: creamy cheeses, briny olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and fragrant Mediterranean herbs all wrapped up in a crunchy nut coating. This is the sort of crowd-pleaser you’ll want in your back pocket for last-minute gatherings, holiday spreads, or just a night in with some good bread and great company. One bite, and you’ll understand why this cheese log always disappears first from the platter!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of the Mediterranean Olive Tapenade Cheese Log is in its short and sweet ingredient list—each item brings color, tang, or texture to the table, building layers of flavor that are so much more than the sum of their parts. Grab these pantry staples and you’ll have a party-ready appetizer in no time.
- Cream Cheese (8 ounces, softened): Gives the cheese log its irresistibly smooth, creamy base and a mild, tangy flavor.
- Goat Cheese (4 ounces, softened): Adds a gentle tanginess and a bit of sophisticated flair—let it come up to room temperature for easier mixing.
- Kalamata Olives (1/2 cup, pitted and finely chopped): Their deep, briny flavor is absolutely essential for that unmistakable tapenade vibe.
- Green Olives (1/4 cup, finely chopped): Provide a little extra saltiness and a pop of green color throughout the log.
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes (2 tablespoons, chopped): Offer sweet-tart notes and chewy texture—oil-packed or dry both work, just blot excess oil if needed.
- Roasted Red Peppers (2 tablespoons, chopped): These bring sweet smokiness and gorgeous red flecks for extra visual appeal.
- Fresh Parsley (2 tablespoons, chopped): Brightens every bite with garden-fresh herby flavor.
- Lemon Zest (1 teaspoon): Adds a zippy citrus aroma that lights up the whole cheese log.
- Lemon Juice (1 teaspoon): Balances out the richness and adds a subtle tangy punch.
- Dried Oregano (1/2 teaspoon): Delivers unmistakable Mediterranean depth and warmth.
- Black Pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Freshly ground is best—just enough to give a gentle hint of heat.
- Chopped Walnuts or Pecans (1/2 cup, for coating): Their crunch and nutty flavor make the perfect outer layer; try pistachios or almonds for a fun twist.
- Crackers or Toasted Baguette Slices (for serving): The ideal canvas for serving every creamy, savory slice of your Mediterranean Olive Tapenade Cheese Log.
How to Make Mediterranean Olive Tapenade Cheese Log
Step 1: Blend the Cheeses
Start by adding the softened cream cheese and goat cheese to a medium bowl. Use a hand mixer or a strong spoon to beat them together until you have a perfectly smooth, creamy blend with no lumps. This is your luscious base, and getting it silky is worth the couple extra minutes—it’ll make every bite of your Mediterranean Olive Tapenade Cheese Log spread like a dream!
Step 2: Add the Bold Mediterranean Mix-ins
Next, stir in the finely chopped Kalamata olives, green olives, sun-dried tomatoes, roasted red peppers, parsley, lemon zest, lemon juice, oregano, and black pepper. Mix by hand using a spatula or wooden spoon, folding gently so you keep those beautiful flecks of color visible. This step is where all that punchy, zesty flavor builds. You’ll notice the mixture looks flecked with reds, greens, and purples—that’s exactly what you want!
Step 3: Shape and Chill
Spoon the mixture onto a piece of plastic wrap and gently form it into a log shape, about 8 inches long. Wrap it up tightly, smoothing and compacting the sides to keep things neat. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours (or up to 3 days), until the cheese log is firm and sliceable. This resting time not only makes it easier to handle, but also gives the flavors time to meld into pure Mediterranean magic.
Step 4: Roll in Chopped Nuts
Just before you’re ready to serve, scatter your chopped walnuts or pecans onto a plate. Unwrap the chilled cheese log and roll it gently in the nuts to coat the outside completely. The nuts add an irresistible crunch and elegance to your Mediterranean Olive Tapenade Cheese Log, making every slice something special!
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Transfer your beautiful cheese log to a serving platter and surround it with plenty of crackers or toasted baguette slices. For an extra touch of luxury, try drizzling with a little olive oil just before serving. Now all that’s left is to dig in and watch the smiles appear around the table.
How to Serve Mediterranean Olive Tapenade Cheese Log
Garnishes
Dress up your Mediterranean Olive Tapenade Cheese Log with a scatter of extra chopped herbs like parsley or basil right before serving. If you want to really dazzle, drizzle with a high-quality extra-virgin olive oil, add a light dusting of lemon zest, or even a few whole olives on the platter for a gorgeous finish.
Side Dishes
This appetizer shines alongside an assortment of crunchy veggies like cucumber rounds, sliced radishes, and colorful bell pepper strips. For more Mediterranean flair, serve with marinated artichokes, grape tomatoes, or even a little bowl of hummus for dipping—instant mezze platter vibes!
Creative Ways to Present
Try shaping your Mediterranean Olive Tapenade Cheese Log into a wreath or heart for special occasions, or make mini cheese logs for individual servings at a cocktail party. Another fun twist is to slice the log into medallions and stack them on crostini with a final sprinkle of chopped nuts or microgreens. These little touches turn a classic appetizer into a conversation starter every single time.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap any remaining Mediterranean Olive Tapenade Cheese Log tightly in plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container. Stored properly in the refrigerator, it stays fresh and flavorful for up to three days—although chances are, it won’t last that long!
Freezing
You can absolutely freeze the cheese log (before coating in nuts) for up to one month. Tightly wrap the plain, shaped log in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, roll in fresh nuts just before serving, and enjoy almost as though it was just made.
Reheating
Since this is a chilled, no-cook appetizer, reheating is not necessary! However, if the cheese log is very cold from the fridge, let it sit at room temperature for 20-30 minutes before serving. This warms the cheeses just enough for that creamy, spreadable texture everyone loves.
FAQs
Can I make the Mediterranean Olive Tapenade Cheese Log in advance?
Absolutely! It’s actually better when made ahead, since chilling melds the flavors and firms it up for perfect slicing. You can prepare it up to three days before your event—just wait to roll in the nuts until right before serving for the best crunch.
What can I use instead of goat cheese?
If goat cheese isn’t your favorite, swap it for cream cheese, ricotta, or even a little mascarpone. Each will give you a creamy texture but adjust the tanginess to your liking.
Is there a way to make this nut-free?
Definitely! Simply skip the nut coating or use finely chopped toasted pumpkin or sunflower seeds for a safe crunch. Fresh herbs or a pinch of za’atar also make a pretty and flavorful exterior.
Can I double this recipe for a big party?
Yes! The Mediterranean Olive Tapenade Cheese Log scales up beautifully. Just use twice the ingredients and divide the mixture into two separate logs (they’ll chill and slice more easily than one giant one).
How do I keep the cheese log from sticking to the plastic wrap?
If the mixture is too sticky, chill it for 10-15 minutes before shaping. Spraying the plastic wrap with a little non-stick spray can also help. For an extra clean look, unwrap the chilled log and roll quickly on a fresh sheet before adding the nut coating.
Final Thoughts
This Mediterranean Olive Tapenade Cheese Log genuinely elevates any gathering, whether it’s an impromptu happy hour or a festive holiday feast. The combination of creamy, zesty, and crunchy elements makes every bite a treat, and it’s just so easy to make ahead. I hope you give this recipe a try and see for yourself why it’s a staple in my party lineup—your guests are bound to ask for the recipe!
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Mediterranean Olive Tapenade Cheese Log Recipe
- Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes (including chilling)
- Yield: 10 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free
Description
Indulge in the flavors of the Mediterranean with this delectable Olive Tapenade Cheese Log. Creamy cheeses mixed with olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and herbs, rolled in nuts for a crunchy coating. Perfect for a holiday gathering or as a classy appetizer.
Ingredients
Cheese Log:
- 8 ounces cream cheese (softened)
- 4 ounces goat cheese (softened)
Olive Tapenade:
- 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
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (for coating)
- crackers or toasted baguette slices for serving
Instructions
- Mix Cheeses: In a medium bowl, beat cream cheese and goat cheese until smooth.
- Add Ingredients: Stir in olives, tomatoes, peppers, parsley, lemon zest, lemon juice, oregano, and black pepper.
- Shape and Chill: Form mixture into a log, wrap in plastic, and chill for 2 hours.
- Coat and Serve: Roll cheese log in nuts, place on a platter, and serve with crackers or bread.
Notes
- This cheese log can be made up to 3 days ahead and stored in the refrigerator.
- For extra flavor, drizzle with olive oil before serving.
- Try pistachios or almonds instead of walnuts for a different twist.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook, Chilling
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (about 1 ounce)
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 310 mg
- Fat: 13 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 3 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 5 g
- Cholesterol: 20 mg
