Description
Mouthwatering Cheesy Festive Delight promises a celebration of flavors that dance across your palate. Creamy textures and rich ingredients blend seamlessly, inviting you to savor each delectable bite with pure culinary joy.
Ingredients
Scale
Cheesy Festive Delight
Cheese and Dairy Ingredients:
- 500g (1 pound) cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups cheddar or other cheese, freshly grated
- ⅓ cup sour cream
Protein and Vegetable Ingredients:
- 180g (6 ounces) salami, finely chopped
- 280g (9 ounces) roasted peppers, drained and finely chopped
- 220g (7 ounces) sun-dried tomato strips with oil, roughly chopped
- ¾ cup green olives, finely chopped
- ⅓ cup green onion, finely minced (3–4 stalks)
- ¼ cup parsley, finely chopped (or chives)
Herbs and Seasonings:
- ½ teaspoon each of thyme, oregano, basil, rosemary, black pepper or 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon each of garlic powder, salt, red pepper/chilli flakes (adjust to taste)
- Rosemary sprigs for decoration
Serving:
- Jatz or other crispy spliters for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the loaf pan by coating it thoroughly with cooking spray, then carefully line the interior with cling wrap, creating generous edges that extend over the sides for effortless extraction later.
- In a spacious mixing bowl, amalgamate cream cheese, sour cream, aromatic herbs, and robust spices until achieving a smooth, uniform consistency. Incorporate sharp cheddar, roasted peppers, zesty salami, briny green olives, and crisp green onions, stirring meticulously to distribute ingredients evenly.
- Conduct a flavor assessment, adjusting seasoning with salt and pepper to elevate the taste profile. Ensure the mixture is well-blended and harmonious.
- Carefully transfer the creamy concoction into the prepared loaf pan, using a spatula to press down firmly and eliminate potential air pockets. Smooth the surface to create an elegant, compact presentation.
- Fold the overhanging cling wrap securely over the top, creating a tight seal. Refrigerate the mixture for a minimum of 4 hours, allowing flavors to meld and intensify. For maximum depth of flavor, can be stored up to one week in advance.
- When ready to serve, invert the chilled loaf onto an elegant serving platter. Gently peel away the cling wrap, revealing the textured cheese creation.
- Enhance the presentation by scattering chopped sun-dried tomatoes across the surface, drizzling their accompanying fragrant oil for an extra layer of complexity. Garnish with vibrant chopped parsley and delicate rosemary sprigs.
- Allow the loaf to rest at room temperature for approximately 15 minutes, which will soften the texture and amplify the intricate flavor profile. Provide cheese spreaders or small knives to encourage guests to enjoy this delectable appetizer.
Notes
- Plan ahead and refrigerate this cheesy loaf for at least 4 hours to develop rich, complex flavors that will impress your guests.
- Use high-quality cream cheese and sour cream for a smoother, more luxurious texture that melts in your mouth.
- Customize the mix-ins by swapping salami for prosciutto or changing olives to create your own unique flavor profile.
- Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before mixing to achieve a perfectly smooth and well-integrated cheese mixture.
- Make this appetizer up to a week in advance, which is perfect for stress-free party preparation and allows flavors to intensify.
- Serve at slightly cool room temperature to maximize the creamy texture and allow the subtle herb and spice notes to shine through.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Snacks, Dinner
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 12
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 60mg