Mediterranean Olive Tapenade Cheese Log

Introduction

When it comes to appetizers that wow a crowd, few dishes are as versatile and impressive as the Mediterranean Olive Tapenade Cheese Log. This savory dish combines the creamy richness of goat cheese with the bold, briny flavors of olives and capers, creating a unique and irresistible spread. I first made this cheese log for a holiday gathering, and it was an instant hit. The creamy goat cheese mixed with Kalamata and green olives, capers, and fresh herbs brings a taste of the Mediterranean right to your table. My family raved about it, and I couldn’t believe how simple it was to prepare. It’s perfect for any occasion—whether you’re hosting a party, a family gathering, or just need a quick and delicious snack to enjoy. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make, yet it feels gourmet. This dish has quickly become one of our favorites, and I’m excited to share the recipe with you.

Ingredients

• 11 oz. soft fresh goat cheese log (may substitute all or part with cream cheese)
• 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and finely chopped
• 1/4 cup green olives, pitted and finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons capers, drained and chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Olive Mixture

In a medium-sized bowl, combine the finely chopped Kalamata olives, green olives, capers, fresh parsley, lemon juice, garlic powder, and black pepper. Stir everything together to combine. Remove three spoons of the mixture to use as a coating for the cheese log later.

Step 2: Mix the Cheese

To the remaining olive mixture, add the soft goat cheese (or a mix of goat cheese and cream cheese) and stir until everything is evenly combined. The goat cheese should be softened, making it easy to incorporate all the ingredients.

Step 3: Shape the Cheese Log

Place a large piece of plastic wrap on your counter and spoon the cheese mixture onto the wrap. Using the plastic wrap, shape the mixture into the form of a log, ensuring that it is uniform in size. Wrap the log tightly in the plastic wrap and place it in the freezer for 20-30 minutes. You want the cheese log to be firm enough to hold its shape but still soft enough to allow the coating to be pressed into it.

Step 4: Prepare the Coating

Once the cheese log has chilled and firmed slightly, place a large piece of parchment paper on your counter. Take the reserved olive mixture and spread it into a single-layer square that is a little larger than the length of the cheese log. This will be the coating for your cheese log.

Step 5: Coat the Cheese Log

Place the chilled cheese log at the edge of the olive mixture and gently roll the log in the coating. Press the coating into the cheese log to ensure that it sticks evenly. You can also use your hands to press the coating into the cheese if needed. Once the log is evenly coated, it’s ready to serve, or you can refrigerate it until you’re ready to present it.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

When you’re ready to serve, remove the cheese log from the refrigerator about 15 minutes beforehand to allow it to soften slightly. Drizzle with olive oil just before serving. This cheese log pairs perfectly with toasted baguette slices or crackers. Enjoy the delightful Mediterranean flavors with every bite!

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Servings: About 12
• Calories per serving: 110 kcal
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 310mg
• Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 3g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 20mg

Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary depending on ingredient brands and portion sizes.

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Chill Time: 20-30 minutes (for the cheese log to firm up)
• Total Time: 40-50 minutes

How to Serve

• Appetizer: Serve the cheese log as an appetizer at parties or family gatherings. It’s a great conversation starter!
• Snack: Enjoy as a quick snack with crackers or vegetables.
• Holiday Meal: Make it a festive dish for holiday parties, New Year’s Eve, or other special occasions.
• Charcuterie Board: Add the cheese log to a charcuterie board with assorted meats, cheeses, and olives for an elegant touch.

Additional Tips

1. Make It Ahead: This cheese log can be prepared a day or two in advance. Just keep it wrapped tightly in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.
2. Customize the Coating: Experiment with different herbs or nuts (like chopped almonds or walnuts) to add variety to the coating.
3. Adjust the Olives: Feel free to use all Kalamata olives or all green olives, depending on your preference.
4. Use Room Temperature Cheese: Make sure your cheese is softened to room temperature before mixing. This will make it easier to combine with the olive mixture.
5. Serve with Fresh Bread: Serve this cheese log with toasted baguette slices, pita chips, or crackers for an easy and delicious bite.

Recipe Variations

• Sun-Dried Tomato Tapenade: Add sun-dried tomatoes to the olive tapenade for a burst of rich flavor.
• Herb-Infused Cheese Log: Add finely chopped fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or basil to the cheese mixture for added freshness.
• Spicy Kick: Stir in a small amount of chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the olive tapenade for a spicy version.
• Cheese Options: For a milder flavor, substitute part of the goat cheese with cream cheese or even ricotta.

Serving Suggestions

• With Wine: Pair this Mediterranean olive tapenade cheese log with a glass of crisp white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, or a light red wine like Pinot Noir.
• Alongside Veggies: Serve the cheese log with fresh vegetables such as carrot sticks, cucumber slices, or bell pepper strips.
• With a Side Salad: Serve the cheese log with a simple mixed greens salad for a light but satisfying meal or appetizer.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: If you have leftovers, wrap the cheese log tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil and freeze it for up to 3 months. When ready to use, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
• Storage: Keep the cheese log in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Remove it from the fridge about 15 minutes before serving to allow it to soften slightly.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use all cream cheese instead of goat cheese?
Yes, you can substitute all or part of the goat cheese with cream cheese for a milder flavor.

2. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cheese log a day or two ahead of time. Just keep it wrapped in plastic wrap in the refrigerator.

3. Can I use green olives instead of Kalamata olives?
Yes, you can use all green olives or a mix of green and Kalamata olives depending on your flavor preference.

4. How do I prevent the coating from falling off?
Make sure to press the coating firmly into the cheese log and use buttered hands to handle the candy so that the coating sticks better.

5. Can I use store-bought tapenade instead of making my own?
Yes, you can substitute store-bought tapenade if you’re short on time.

6. What if I don’t have fresh parsley?
You can substitute dried parsley, although fresh parsley will give the cheese log a better flavor.

7. Can I add nuts to the coating?
Yes, adding chopped nuts such as walnuts or almonds to the coating can add extra texture and flavor.

8. Is this cheese log spicy?
No, it’s not spicy unless you choose to add ingredients like jalapeños or red pepper flakes.

9. How can I make this cheese log even creamier?
Substituting part of the goat cheese with cream cheese or adding a small amount of heavy cream to the cheese mixture will give it a creamier texture.

10. What can I serve this cheese log with besides crackers?
It also goes well with toasted pita bread, baguette slices, or vegetable sticks.

Conclusion

This Mediterranean Olive Tapenade Cheese Log is a perfect blend of creamy goat cheese, briny olives, and fresh herbs. It’s a simple yet elegant appetizer that’s guaranteed to impress your guests. Whether served at a party, as a snack, or as part of a charcuterie board, this dish brings a delightful Mediterranean flair to your table. Easy to make and packed with flavor, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire. Enjoy it with a glass of wine, and let the flavors transport you to the sunny Mediterranean coast!

Print