If you adore bold flavors and crave a party-ready appetizer that’s both elegant and easy, you’re going to fall head over heels for this Mediterranean Olive Tapenade Cheese Log Recipe. It brings together creamy goat cheese with the tang of Kalamata and green olives, the brininess of capers, and a hint of fresh lemon juice to create a vibrant, savory spread that feels like a Mediterranean escape in every bite. Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or elevating your holiday appetizer spread, this cheese log is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser with layers of texture and intense flavor that somehow feel both rustic and refined at the same time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe is its simplicity—each ingredient plays a crucial role, from texture to flavor to color, ensuring a perfect balance in every slice. You won’t need a vast pantry to make this Mediterranean Olive Tapenade Cheese Log Recipe shine, just a handful of thoughtful, fresh elements.
- 11 oz. soft fresh goat cheese log: Use this as your creamy, tangy base; cream cheese can be a substitute for a milder, richer texture.
- 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and finely chopped: These provide a deep, fruity, slightly bitter kick perfect for authenticity.
- 1/4 cup green olives, pitted and finely chopped: Their sharper flavor adds a wonderful contrast to Kalamata’s richness.
- 2 tablespoons capers, drained and chopped: Small but mighty, capers bring a burst of salty brininess.
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped: This adds a fresh, herbaceous note and a pop of green color.
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice: Brightens the entire cheese log and cuts through the richness with its citrus zing.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Brings a subtle warmth and depth without overpowering.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: For a gentle background heat that lifts the flavors.
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese: Adds an extra layer of salty creaminess and texture.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Used for drizzling at the end, enriching the flavors and giving a silky finish.
How to Make Mediterranean Olive Tapenade Cheese Log Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Olive Mixture
Start by tossing together the finely chopped Kalamata and green olives in a medium bowl. Take your time here and whisk them gently to marry their flavors before removing three generous spoonfuls of this mixture and setting it aside. This reserved tapenade will become the perfect coating for your cheese log, making sure each bite bursts with olive goodness.
Step 2: Combine the Cheese and Flavorings
To the remaining olive mixture, stir in fresh lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper to balance out the rich olive flavors with zesty brightness and warming spices. Then fold in your goat cheese and crumbled feta cheese, mixing everything until it’s smooth, well combined, and utterly inviting. This creamy blend is the star of your Mediterranean Olive Tapenade Cheese Log Recipe.
Step 3: Shape and Chill the Cheese Log
Lay a large piece of plastic wrap on your workspace, spoon the cheese and olive mixture onto it, and carefully shape it into a log. Wrap it up tightly so no air gets in, then pop it into the freezer for 20 to 30 minutes to firm up. You want it chilled enough to hold its shape but still soft enough to press into the coating later without cracking.
Step 4: Prepare the Tapenade Coating
While the cheese log firms up, spread your reserved tapenade mixture into a thin, even layer on a large piece of parchment paper. Make it just a bit bigger than your cheese log lengthwise—this will ensure you get an even and complete coverage when you roll.
Step 5: Roll and Coat the Cheese Log
Once the cheese log is chilled and firm, place it gently at one edge of the spread tapenade and start rolling it across, pressing as you go to adhere the flavorful olive coating to every inch. This step is where your Mediterranean Olive Tapenade Cheese Log Recipe really starts to come alive with those textured, olive-studded layers visible all over the surface.
Step 6: Chill or Serve Immediately
If you’re not serving right away, refrigerate the coated cheese log until party time. The flavors will marry beautifully as it rests, but if you’re impatient like me, serving immediately gives you a fresh, lively bite that’s just as delightful.
Step 7: Let It Soften Before Serving
Take the cheese log out of the fridge about 15 minutes before serving to allow it to soften slightly. This brief warm-up period enhances the creaminess and brings the flavors into perfect harmony. Just before serving, drizzle with a bit of olive oil for that gorgeous sheen and an extra kiss of rich mouthfeel.
Step 8: Serve with Your Favorite Accompaniments
Arrange toasted baguette slices, crunchy crackers, or fresh vegetable sticks alongside your cheese log. These will be the perfect vehicles for scooping up tasty morsels of your handcrafted Mediterranean Olive Tapenade Cheese Log Recipe.
How to Serve Mediterranean Olive Tapenade Cheese Log Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or even a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts can add a stunning visual and textural contrast. A drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil and a few whole olives scattered around invite guests to dig in and enjoy every bite.
Side Dishes
This cheese log pairs beautifully with crisp, fresh vegetables such as cucumber, celery, or bell pepper strips. For gatherings, a basket of assorted artisan breads and crunchy crackers offers variety and makes your spread truly irresistible.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn your log into a centerpiece on a wooden board layered with Mediterranean accents like sun-dried tomatoes, roasted red peppers, and olives on the vine. Or slice the log into bite-sized rounds for elegant party trays that are perfect for entertaining with style and ease.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap the cheese log tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. This keeps the flavors fresh and the texture creamy without drying out the cheese or the tapenade.
Freezing
While this cheese log is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze it wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then foil for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator to retain its creamy texture and vibrant flavor.
Reheating
No reheating needed here—this cheese log is enjoyed best chilled or just slightly softened at room temperature. If served too cold, the flavors will be muted, so don’t forget to take it out 15 minutes ahead of serving.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cheese instead of goat cheese?
Absolutely! While goat cheese offers a lovely tang, cream cheese or a blend of cream cheese and feta works delightfully, providing a smoother, milder base that still holds up well.
How long does the cheese log last in the refrigerator?
Freshly made and stored properly, the cheese log will stay flavorful and fresh for about 3 days, making it a perfect make-ahead appetizer for gatherings.
Can I make this recipe vegan or dairy-free?
For a vegan twist, try using a plant-based cream cheese alternative and omit the feta. Use olive tapenade as described and the result will still be delicious and packed with Mediterranean flair.
What’s the best way to serve the cheese log at a party?
Slicing into rounds and arranging on a platter with crackers and fresh veggies is perfect for easy sharing, while keeping the whole log intact is great for a casual, rustic presentation.
Can the tapenade be made ahead of time?
Yes! Feel free to prepare the olive tapenade a day ahead and refrigerate it in an airtight container. This actually helps the flavors marry beautifully before you assemble the cheese log.
Final Thoughts
This Mediterranean Olive Tapenade Cheese Log Recipe is one of those wonderfully simple yet show-stopping dishes that you’ll want to make again and again. Its fresh, vibrant flavors combined with creamy texture and rich olives make it a standout at any occasion. Trust me when I say once you try this, it will become a beloved staple in your appetizer repertoire, impressing guests and family alike effortlessly.
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Mediterranean Olive Tapenade Cheese Log Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes plus 20-30 minutes chilling
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Mediterranean Olive Tapenade Cheese Log is a flavorful appetizer featuring a blend of soft goat cheese and tangy cream cheese mixed with a vibrant tapenade of Kalamata and green olives, capers, and fresh herbs. Coated with a delightful olive-tapenade mixture and crumbled feta, this cheese log offers a perfect balance of creamy, salty, and zesty flavors. Ideal for entertaining, it pairs beautifully with toasted baguette slices or crackers.
Ingredients
Cheese Mixture
- 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
- Combine Olives: In a medium bowl, add the Kalamata and green olives, and whisk to combine. Remove 3 spoons of this olive mixture to use for coating the cheese log later.
- Mix Cheese Base: To the remaining olives, stir in the fresh lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Add the goat cheese (or cream cheese) and mix until evenly combined.
- Shape and Chill: Lay out a large piece of plastic wrap and spoon the cheese mixture onto it. Shape the mixture into the form of a log, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap. Freeze the cheese log for 20-30 minutes, just enough to firm it up but still soft enough for the coating to stick.
- Prepare Tapenade Coating: Line a countertop with a large piece of parchment paper. Add the reserved tapenade and stir to combine. Spread this mixture into a single-layer square slightly larger than the length of the cheese log.
- Coat Cheese Log: Place the chilled cheese log at the edge of the tapenade coating and gently roll it in the mixture, pressing the coating into the log until it is evenly covered.
- Refrigerate or Serve: You can either refrigerate the coated cheese log until you’re ready to serve, or serve immediately.
- Bring to Room Temperature: When ready to serve, remove the cheese log from the refrigerator about 15 minutes beforehand so it softens slightly. Drizzle with olive oil just before serving.
- Serve: Serve with toasted baguette slices or crackers.
Notes
- The cheese log should be chilled just enough to firm up for easier coating but not frozen solid.
- Substitute cream cheese for goat cheese if you prefer a milder flavor.
- For best flavor, use fresh parsley and high-quality olives.
- This cheese log pairs beautifully with toasted baguette slices, crackers, or fresh vegetable crudités.
- Store leftovers tightly wrapped in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
