Chef Mitchell preparing Savory Olive Herb Log
👨‍🍳 Expert Chef

Recipe by Mitchell

🎓 10+ Years Experience ⏰ 1000+ Recipes Created 🍽️ Culinary School Graduate

❤️ My Recipe Story

"I discovered the Savory Olive Herb Log while traveling through the Mediterranean, where the flavors of olives and fresh herbs captivated my taste buds. After experimenting with various recipes, I perfected this version that combines the creaminess of cheese with the crunch of nuts. It's become a staple at my gatherings, and I love sharing it with friends and family."

With over a decade of culinary experience, I specialize in Mediterranean cuisine and appetizers. My passion for creating vibrant and flavorful dishes shines through in every recipe I craft. I believe food should not only taste good but also bring people together.

View All Mitchell's Recipes →
Delicious Savory Olive Herb Log served on a plate

Why This Savory Olive Herb Log Recipe Works

This recipe stands out due to its balanced flavor profile, combining the briny taste of olives with fresh herbs and creamy cheese. The textural contrast between the smooth log and the crunchy walnut coating makes every bite exciting. It’s an effortless yet impressive dish that requires minimal cooking time but yields maximum flavor.

The technique of chilling the log ensures it holds its shape when coated and sliced. The combination of ingredients can be easily customized to suit your taste preferences, making it a versatile addition to any appetizer spread.

💡 Professional Tip

For the best flavor, let the Savory Olive Herb Log sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving. This enhances the creaminess and allows the flavors to meld beautifully. You can also experiment with different herbs or add a touch of spice for a unique twist.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, you can prepare the Savory Olive Herb Log a day in advance. Just ensure it is properly wrapped in plastic wrap to maintain freshness. Before serving, roll it in the walnut and feta mixture to keep it looking vibrant.

If you're looking for a substitute for feta cheese, consider goat cheese or ricotta for a creamier texture. Both alternatives will add a unique flavor profile and can be used in equal amounts.

The Savory Olive Herb Log is ready to serve once it has chilled and firmed up in the refrigerator. You should be able to slice it easily without it falling apart. If it's too soft, give it more time in the fridge.

Yes, the Savory Olive Herb Log can be frozen. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. When ready to serve, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before slicing.

This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of accompaniments. Try serving it with crispy crackers, fresh vegetable sticks, or even toasted baguette slices for a delightful contrast in textures.

When stored properly in an airtight container, the Savory Olive Herb Log can last in the fridge for up to 5 days. Be sure to keep it wrapped to maintain its freshness.

Absolutely! This appetizer can be made up to 24 hours in advance. Just follow the instructions, wrap it tightly, and store it in the fridge. Roll in the nut and cheese coating just before serving.

While this dish is typically served cold or at room temperature, if you prefer it warm, gently reheat it in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes. Be careful not to overheat, as it can become too soft.

Recipe Troubleshooting Guide

✅

Too Dry

Problem: If your Savory Olive Herb Log turns out too dry, it may be due to overmixing the cream cheese or not enough moisture from ingredients.

Solution: To fix this, add a little more olive oil or a splash of cream to the mixture before rolling it into a log.

✅

Not Crispy Enough

Problem: If the exterior of the log isn't crispy, it could be due to insufficient coating or not toasting the nuts beforehand.

Solution: Make sure to toast the walnuts lightly before adding them as a coating, and ensure the log is rolled well in the mixture.

✅

Overcooked

Problem: If the Savory Olive Herb Log appears overcooked, it may have been left in the oven too long.

Prevention: To prevent this, monitor the baking time closely and use a timer to avoid overcooking in the future.

✅

Undercooked Center

Problem: An undercooked center can occur if the log is not chilled long enough before slicing.

Recovery: Make sure to chill the log for at least 30 minutes to firm it up accurately.

✅

Burnt Exterior

Problem: A burnt exterior may happen if the log is exposed to too high heat.

Prevention: Keep an eye on your oven temperature and use parchment paper to help prevent direct contact with the heat source.

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Flavor Balance

Too Sweet: If the dish is too sweet, add a dash of lemon juice or increase the salt to balance the flavors.

Too Salty: For a dish that's too salty, consider adding more cream cheese to dilute the saltiness.

Bland: If the log is too bland, add more fresh herbs or a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra flavor.

Fresh ingredients for Savory Olive Herb Log

Essential Ingredients for Savory Olive Herb Log

The success of the Savory Olive Herb Log relies heavily on the quality of its ingredients. Using fresh herbs and high-quality olives enhances the overall flavor. The cream cheese provides a rich base, while the nuts add the perfect crunch.

Selecting ingredients with vibrant colors and fresh aromas will ensure that your dish not only tastes great but also looks appealing. Always opt for ripe olives and fresh herbs for the best results.

Essential Ingredient Notes

  • Olives: Choose a mix of black and green olives for a balanced flavor. Drain them well to avoid excess moisture in the log.
  • Fresh Herbs: Using fresh herbs like parsley and basil can significantly enhance the taste. Chop them finely to release their natural oils and flavors.
  • Cream Cheese: Ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature for easy mixing. This will help in achieving a smooth, creamy texture.
Cooking process for Savory Olive Herb Log

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

The cooking process for the Savory Olive Herb Log is straightforward and enjoyable. It starts with mixing fresh ingredients, shaping the log, and then chilling it to firm up. Each step is designed to ensure the best flavor and texture.

Take your time with the coating step, as this adds a layer of crunch that complements the creamy filling. The final presentation can be adjusted based on your serving style, whether as a log or sliced into rounds.

Key Technique for Perfect Savory Olive Herb Log

Chilling the log is crucial for setting its shape and ensuring it holds together when sliced. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully and makes for easy serving.

Savory Olive Herb Log

Prep 15 min
Cook 45 min
Serves 6 servings
Level Easy

📋 Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup butter
    Room temperature
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice
    Freshly squeezed
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
    Optional
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
    Optional

For the Sauce

  • 2 lbs chicken
    Cut into pieces
  • 1 cup flour
    For dredging
  • 2 eggs
    Beaten
  • 2 cups breadcrumbs
    For coating
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
    Optional
  • 1 tsp paprika
    For seasoning
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
    For seasoning
  • 1/2 cup olive oil
    For frying

Instructions

  1. Prepare Ingredients

    In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, chopped black and green olives, parsley, basil, garlic, lemon juice, oregano, black pepper, and salt. Mix well.

  2. Form the Log

    On a sheet of plastic wrap, transfer the mixture and shape it into a log. Wrap tightly and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

  3. Prepare the Coating

    In a separate bowl, combine finely chopped walnuts and crumbled feta cheese.

  4. Coat the Log

    Once chilled, unwrap the log and roll it in the walnut and feta mixture until evenly coated.

  5. Slice and Serve

    Slice the log into medallions and serve with crackers or fresh veggies.

  6. Drizzle with Olive Oil

    Just before serving, drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with red pepper flakes for an extra kick.

  7. Garnish

    Garnish with additional herbs if desired.

  8. Enjoy!

    Enjoy your Savory Olive Herb Log as a delicious appetizer.

Recipe Notes & Tips

Storage Tips

To maintain freshness, store the Savory Olive Herb Log in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Make sure it is wrapped well to prevent it from drying out.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Savory Olive Herb Log with an assortment of crackers, fresh veggies, or toasted bread for a delightful appetizer spread that will impress your guests.

Recipe Variations

Feel free to customize the recipe by adding different herbs, spices, or even types of cheese. You can also substitute nuts to your preference, such as pecans or almonds for varied textures.