Salami, Olive and Sun-Dried Tomato Cheese Loaf

This appetizer combines some of our favorite antipasto nibbles in a wonderful, easy and delicious cheese loaf: peppery salami, salty olives and delicious sun-dried tomatoes, all mixed with plenty of cheese and herbs. Serve this with crostini or crackers at any gathering and watch it disappear. This recipe makes two smallish loaves, but you can cut into 3-4 more traditional cheese balls, if desired. Easy to make, these cheese loaves can keep for up to week, so prep ahead of time and serve during the holidays or anytime you find yourself needing a quick, no-cook, crowd-pleasing appetizer.

We’ve added kalamata olives because they are one of our favorite things, however you can add whatever you like, such as Castelvetrano or spicy Sicilian olives, if you prefer. If you would like it vegetarian, simply omit the salami. We happen to love the addition of the cured meat, as it adds a happy little element of surprise to each bite. What could better than a bite that includes cheese, salami, tomatoes, olives and toasty bread? Not much, in our opinion. Felix made this for me for the first time around Christmas – it only took one taste and it didn’t last past the night.

Tip: We love to serve this with plenty of chopped basil and sun-dried tomatoes on top. Use a jar of sun-dried tomatoes stored in oil for best results. Dry tomatoes can be used but should be rehydrated in hot water for a few minutes to soften them and drained well, then tossed in olive oil to coat before adding to recipe.