Antipasto Christmas Tree Cheese Ball
Indulge in the festive delight of the Antipasto Christmas Tree Cheese Ball, a stunning appetizer that combines vibrant flavors and eye-catching presentation. This whimsical cheese ball is crafted from a rich blend of cream cheese and sharp cheddar, mixed with savory salami, briny olives, and fresh herbs. Shaped into a festive tree, it’s perfect for holiday gatherings, sure to impress your guests and leave them wanting more. Serve it alongside an array of crackers or vegetables for a delightful experience that elevates any celebration.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: None
- Total Time: 38 minute
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Chilling
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- ½ cup salami or pepperoni, diced
- ½ cup green olives, chopped
- ½ cup red bell pepper, diced
- ¼ cup fresh parsley or basil, chopped
- ½ cup walnuts or pecans, crushed
Instructions
- In a large bowl, mix softened cream cheese and shredded sharp cheddar until smooth.
- Fold in diced salami, chopped olives, red bell pepper, and herbs until evenly distributed.
- Use plastic wrap to shape the mixture into a tree form; don't worry about perfection.
- Roll the shaped cheese ball in crushed nuts until completely coated.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least one hour before serving.
- Garnish with additional herbs and cherry tomatoes as ornaments before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 oz (28g)
- Calories: 100
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: Customize your cheese ball by adding sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers as alternatives for added flavor. To ensure easy slicing and serving, let the cheese ball sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before enjoying.