Name: No-Bake Savory Christmas Log
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 140 min
Ingredients: 8 oz cream cheese, softened (Ensure at room temperature for easier mixing.); 1 cup cooked spinach, chopped (Can substitute with arugula or kale for a bolder flavor.); 1/2 cup roasted red peppers, chopped; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (Can use flavored cream cheese for extra taste.); 1/4 cup chopped nuts (e.g., walnuts or pecans) (Feel free to swap types of nuts.); Salt and pepper to taste; 2 large flour tortillas; Fresh herbs for garnish (optional) (Recommended for presentation.)

No-Bake Savory Christmas Log is an exquisite addition for festive gatherings, showcasing an irresistible blend of flavors and textures. This delightful appetizer combines creamy cheese with vibrant spinach and roasted red peppers, resulting in a colorful and savory treat that’s sure to impress. Perfect for holiday parties, potlucks, or as a seasonal snack, it’s an effortless way to bring culinary flair to your festive table without turning on the oven.

Why you’ll love this dish

Crafting this No-Bake Savory Christmas Log is more than just a culinary task—it’s an experience! This recipe is not only easy to make, but it’s also budget-friendly and can cater to different dietary preferences. With its vibrant colors and sophisticated taste, it elevates any gathering, making it ideal for holiday parties, brunches, or casual get-togethers.

“I brought this to a holiday party, and it disappeared in minutes! It’s creamy, crunchy, and so festive!” – Sarah M.

The cooking process explained

Creating this tasty holiday log is straightforward. You’ll first blend ingredients to create a rich filling. Once mixed, you’ll spread it on tortillas, roll them up into logs, and chill them to perfection. This no-cook approach means you’ll save time and energy, leaving more room for enjoying the festive ambiance.

Gather these items

For this No-Bake Savory Christmas Log, you’ll need the following ingredients:

8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup cooked spinach, chopped
1/2 cup roasted red peppers, chopped
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup chopped nuts (e.g., walnuts or pecans)
Salt and pepper to taste
2 large flour tortillas
Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)

Feel free to swap out the nuts or cheese to customize this recipe to your liking. This allows for versatility while keeping the essence of the dish intact.

Step-by-step instructions

In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, cooked spinach, roasted red peppers, Parmesan cheese, and chopped nuts. Season with salt and pepper. Mix until smooth and well blended.
Lay one tortilla flat on your workspace. Spread half of the cream cheese mixture evenly over it.
Carefully roll the tortilla tightly into a log shape.
Repeat the process with the second tortilla and the remaining mixture.
Wrap each log tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld and the logs to set.
When ready to serve, unwrap the logs and slice them into rounds. Arrange beautifully on a platter and garnish with fresh herbs if desired.

Best ways to enjoy it

The No-Bake Savory Christmas Log is delightful served on its own or with various accompaniments. Pair it with an assortment of crackers, fresh veggies, or a zesty dip for added flavor. For an elegant presentation, serve the slices with a sprig of fresh herbs or sprinkle some extra Parmesan on top.

Keeping leftovers fresh

If you have any leftovers (which is rare with this crowd-pleaser!), wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

If you’re considering extending its shelf life, these logs can also be frozen for up to a month. Make sure to wrap them securely to prevent freezer burn. Thaw in the fridge before serving.

Helpful cooking tips

To ensure your No-Bake Savory Christmas Log turns out perfectly, here are a few tips:

Ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature; this will make mixing easier and create a smoother filling.
For added flavor, consider incorporating garlic powder or herbs like dill or basil into the cream cheese mixture.
Don’t skip the chilling step! Allowing the logs to set helps maintain their shape when slicing.

Creative twists

Want to remix this festive appetizer? Here are a few variations:

Swap out spinach for arugula or kale for a bolder flavor.
Use a flavored cream cheese, such as garlic or herb, for an extra kick.
Try incorporating sun-dried tomatoes or olives into the filling for a Mediterranean twist.

Common questions

How long does it take to prepare?
Preparation takes about 20 minutes, plus at least 2 hours of chilling time.

Can I substitute the cream cheese?
Absolutely! For a lighter option, consider using Greek yogurt or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative.

How do I ensure food safety when storing leftovers?
Always store the logs in the refrigerator promptly after serving and consume them within 3 days for the best quality. If you freeze the logs, ensure they are wrapped well to avoid freezer burn.