Festive Cheese Herb Roll (Print Version)
# Ingredients:
→ Cheesy Layer
01 -
2 cups shredded cheddar or any strong-flavored cheese you like
02 -
16 oz soft cream cheese (500g), bring to room temp for easy mixing
03 -
1/3 cup sour cream (makes the mixture smooth and easy to spread)
→ Flavor Boosters
04 -
1 tsp chili flakes or crushed red pepper
05 -
1 tsp garlic powder
06 -
1/2 tsp thyme (or swap with 1 tsp mixed Italian seasoning)
07 -
1/2 tsp black pepper
08 -
1/2 tsp dried oregano
09 -
1/2 tsp basil, dried
10 -
1/2 tsp rosemary, dried
11 -
1 tsp kosher salt (or adjust as needed)
→ Extras
12 -
3/4 cup finely chopped green olives
13 -
6 oz of finely diced salami (180g)
14 -
1/3 cup green onions, chopped small (about 3-4 sticks)
15 -
9 oz roasted peppers (280g), drained and chopped
→ For Topping
16 -
Fresh rosemary sprigs for some garnish
17 -
Table crackers like Ritz or Triscuits for serving
18 -
1/4 cup finely chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley
19 -
7 oz of sun-dried tomato strips in olive oil (220g), roughly diced
# Instructions:
01 -
Spritz a loaf pan lightly with oil spray. Then, line it with plastic wrap and leave some hanging over the edges.
02 -
Stir the cheese mixture together in a big bowl: the cream cheese, sour cream, grated cheese, seasonings, diced peppers, chopped salami, olives, and green onions. Mix until the consistency's smooth and even.
03 -
Give it a quick taste. Add more salt if needed, but don’t forget crackers will add some saltiness too!
04 -
Spoon the mixture into the prepared loaf pan. Press down firmly to prevent air pockets. Fold the plastic wrap over, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours.
05 -
Flip the chilled log onto a plate and peel off the wrap. Top with sun-dried tomato bits and a drizzle of the oil they came in, sprinkle parsley, and set rosemary sprigs for a festive vibe.
06 -
Let it soften a little before putting it out—it’ll be easier to scoop or spread closer to room temperature. Serve with plenty of crackers for dipping or spreading.
# Notes:
01 -
Make it up to 7 days in advance—perfect for hosting!
02 -
Skip the sour cream if you’re using cream cheese that’s already spreadable.
03 -
Shred your cheese fresh—it blends way better than pre-packaged shreds.