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Antipasto Cheese Ball

Antipasto Cheese Ball
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The Antipasto Cheese Ball is a flavorful and easy-to-make appetizer that combines creamy cheese, savory meats, vibrant veggies, and bold Italian seasonings. Perfect for parties or casual gatherings, this cheese ball offers a delightful blend of textures and tastes in every bite.

Ingredients

Cheese Base

  • Cream Cheese – 8 oz, softened
  • Shredded Mozzarella – 1 cup
  • Grated Parmesan Cheese – 1/4 cup

Antipasto Ingredients

  • Chopped Salami – 1/2 cup
  • Diced Roasted Red Peppers – 1/3 cup
  • Sliced Black Olives – 1/4 cup
  • Chopped Pepperoncini – 1/4 cup

Seasonings

  • Italian Seasoning – 1 tsp
  • Minced Garlic – 1 clove

Serving

  • Crackers or Bread – As desired

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Base Mixture: Begin by softening the cream cheese at room temperature to ensure smooth blending. In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese with shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, Italian seasoning, and minced garlic. Use a hand mixer or sturdy spoon to blend everything until the mixture is creamy and well-integrated.
  2. Chop and Mix Antipasto Ingredients: Dice your salami, roasted red peppers, black olives, and pepperoncini into small bite-sized pieces. Gently fold these chopped ingredients into the cheese mixture, stirring until evenly combined without overworking the mixture.
  3. Shape the Cheese Ball: Using your hands or a spatula, transfer the cheese mixture onto a sheet of plastic wrap. Form it into a compact ball shape, making sure the surface is smooth and the ingredients are tightly packed. Wrap it well and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld and the ball to firm up.
  4. Add Toppings and Serve: Just before serving, unwrap the cheese ball and roll it gently over additional chopped antipasto ingredients such as salami bits, olives, or peppers for a colorful, textured crust. Place it on a serving platter surrounded by an assortment of crackers, slices of crusty bread, or crisp veggies for dipping.

Notes

  • Softened cream cheese blends better for a smooth texture.
  • Dice antipasto ingredients uniformly to ensure balanced flavor in each bite.
  • Chill the cheese ball in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours to firm up and meld flavors.
  • Rolling the finished ball in extra toppings enhances visual appeal and texture.
  • Use fresh minced garlic for a brighter aroma compared to garlic powder.

Nutrition

Keywords: antipasto, cheese ball, appetizer, party food, Italian, easy recipe, gluten free

Find it online: https://tastebudtrek.com/antipasto-cheese-ball/