Antipasto Cheese Ball
This Antipasto Cheese Ball is a crowd-pleasing appetizer combining creamy cheeses, savory salami, olives, and vibrant antipasto ingredients with a touch of Italian flair. Perfectly easy to prepare and customizable, it delivers bold flavors and impressive presentation for any gathering.
- Author: Mary
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: No bake
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired
- Diet: Gluten Free
Cheeses
- Cream Cheese (8 oz, softened)
- Shredded Mozzarella (1 cup)
- Grated Parmesan Cheese (1/2 cup)
Antipasto Ingredients
- Chopped Salami (1 cup)
- Chopped Pepperoncini Peppers (1/4 cup)
- Chopped Black Olives (1/3 cup)
- Chopped Roasted Red Peppers (1/3 cup)
- Chopped Green Onions (1/4 cup)
Seasonings
- Fresh Italian Seasoning or Dried Herbs (1 tsp)
- Garlic Powder (1/2 tsp)
- Prepare the Ingredients: Finely chop the salami, pepperoncini peppers, black olives, roasted red peppers, and green onions into bite-sized pieces to ensure they blend smoothly into the cheese mixture.
- Mix the Cheeses and Seasonings: In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Mix thoroughly until creamy and well blended.
- Fold in the Antipasto Ingredients: Gently stir in the chopped salami, vegetables, and olives, ensuring even distribution throughout the cheese base.
- Shape the Cheese Ball: Using clean hands or a spatula, form the mixture into a compact ball, smoothing the edges for an elegant presentation.
- Chill and Set: Wrap the cheese ball tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least two hours to allow the flavors to meld and the texture to firm up.
- Final Touches: Before serving, optionally roll the cheese ball in extras such as chopped nuts or fresh herbs for added flavor and visual appeal.
Notes
- Use full-fat cheese for the creamiest texture and richest flavor.
- Chop all ingredients evenly for balanced flavors in every bite.
- Chill thoroughly to help the cheese ball hold its shape and enhance flavor.
- Prepare in advance to save time and improve flavor harmony.
- Experiment with coatings like crushed crackers, herbs, or paprika for extra texture and color.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/12 of cheese ball
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 300 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 3 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 35 mg
Keywords: antipasto cheese ball, cheese ball appetizer, Italian cheese ball, party appetizer, easy appetizer, gluten free appetizer, antipasto dip