A beautiful and flavorful appetizer, the Goat Cheese Pesto Sun-Dried Tomato Roll brings together creamy goat cheese, herbaceous pesto, and the rich sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes in a show-stopping cheese log. Topped with chopped walnuts and fresh herbs, it’s ideal for spreading on crackers and crostini, especially during the holiday season or at elegant gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This cheese roll is both visually striking and packed with bold flavor. The creamy base of goat cheese and cream cheese pairs perfectly with the fresh, garlicky bite of basil pesto and the concentrated flavor of sun-dried tomatoes. It’s incredibly easy to prepare ahead of time and makes an excellent centerpiece for a holiday charcuterie board or appetizer platter. The addition of walnuts adds crunch, while the rolled presentation creates an eye-catching spiral when sliced.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 10 oz goat cheese, softened

• 4 oz cream cheese, softened

• 1/3 cup basil pesto

• 1/3 cup sun-dried tomatoes in oil, drained and chopped

• 1/4 cup chopped walnuts (plus extra for garnish)

• Crackers or crostini, for serving

• Fresh thyme or basil, for garnish (optional)

Directions

1. In a bowl, mix goat cheese and cream cheese together until smooth and creamy.

2. Place a large piece of plastic wrap on a clean surface. Spread the cheese mixture into a rectangle approximately 1/2 inch thick.

3. Evenly spread the pesto over the cheese surface.

4. Sprinkle chopped sun-dried tomatoes and chopped walnuts over the pesto.

5. Using the plastic wrap, carefully roll the cheese up into a tight log, jelly-roll style. Twist the ends of the wrap to seal.

6. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to firm.

7. Before serving, unwrap the roll and place it on a serving board. Garnish with extra chopped walnuts and fresh herbs if desired.

8. Serve with crackers or crostini.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 8–10 servings as an appetizer.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Chill Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Variations

• Nut-Free Option: Omit walnuts or substitute with toasted seeds such as pumpkin or sunflower seeds.

• Herb Variations: Try arugula or sun-dried tomato pesto for a different flavor profile.

• Cheese Swap: Substitute goat cheese with feta for a saltier alternative.

• Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or chopped Calabrian chilies to the pesto layer.

• Individual Portions: Divide the mixture and make mini rolls for individual servings or party trays.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

• Make-Ahead: Prepare up to 2 days in advance and garnish just before serving.

• Freezing: Not recommended, as the texture of the cheese may change upon thawing.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought pesto?

Yes, high-quality store-bought pesto works perfectly, though homemade pesto will give a fresher flavor.

How long can I leave this out at room temperature?

It can sit out for up to 2 hours. After that, it should be returned to the refrigerator.

Can I make this roll ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it 1–2 days in advance and keep it wrapped in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

What crackers go best with this cheese roll?

Choose sturdy crackers like water crackers, crostini, or multigrain crackers that won’t crumble easily.

Can I substitute cream cheese with something else?

Mascarpone or ricotta could be used, though they may yield a slightly softer texture.

How do I get a neat spiral when rolling?

Spread ingredients evenly and use firm but gentle pressure while rolling with the help of plastic wrap.

Can I make this dish vegan?

Yes, use plant-based cream cheese and vegan goat cheese alternatives along with dairy-free pesto.

Are sun-dried tomatoes in oil required?

They add better flavor and texture, but you can use dry-packed tomatoes rehydrated in hot water if needed.

Can I add other toppings?

Yes, chopped olives, roasted red peppers, or crushed pistachios make great additions.

How should I serve this at a party?

Serve on a wooden board with a cheese knife, surrounded by crackers, sliced baguette, and fresh fruit.

Conclusion

The Goat Cheese Pesto Sun-Dried Tomato Roll is a deliciously elegant appetizer that’s bursting with Mediterranean flavor and perfect for any festive occasion. Easy to prepare ahead and beautiful to present, it offers a balance of tangy, creamy, and savory notes that guests will love. Serve it as the centerpiece of your next cheese board or holiday spread for a dish that’s as tasty as it is eye-catching.

Goat Cheese Pesto Sun-Dried Tomato Roll

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• Author: Emma Delaney
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes (including chilling time)
• Yield: 1 cheese log (serves 8–10) 1x
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: No-Bake
• Cuisine: Mediterranean
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

A stunning savory cheese log swirled with zesty pesto, tangy sun-dried tomatoes, and rich goat cheese—topped with crunchy walnuts and perfect for spreading on crackers at holiday gatherings.

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Ingredients

Units USM Scale 1x2x3x

• 10 oz goat cheese, softened
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/3 cup basil pesto
• 1/3 cup sun-dried tomatoes in oil, drained and chopped
• 1/4 cup chopped walnuts (plus extra for garnish)
• Crackers or crostini, for serving
• Fresh thyme or basil, for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

1. In a bowl, combine goat cheese and cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
2. Lay a large piece of plastic wrap on a flat surface and spread the cheese mixture into a rectangle, about 1/2 inch thick.
3. Spread pesto evenly over the cheese, then sprinkle with chopped sun-dried tomatoes and walnuts.
4. Carefully roll the cheese up jelly-roll style, using the plastic wrap to help form a tight log. Twist the ends to seal.
5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to firm up.
6. Before serving, unwrap and place on a wooden board. Garnish with more walnuts and herbs. Serve with crackers or crostini.

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Notes

• Use parchment paper instead of plastic wrap if preferred.
• Can be made a day in advance and stored in the fridge.
• Experiment with different nuts like pistachios or pecans for varied flavor.

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Nutrition

• Serving Size: 2 tablespoons
• Calories: 130
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 160mg
• Fat: 11g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 3g
• Fiber: 0.5g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 20mg