Cowboy Caviar Jalapeno Popper Cheese Log

This Cowboy Caviar Jalapeno Popper Cheese Log is a crowd-pleasing appetizer combining creamy cheese, fresh veggies, and a hint of spice. Ideal for parties or casual snacking, it’s wrapped in crunchy tortilla chips for a fun twist on traditional cheese logs. With a Tex-Mex flair, it’s flavorful and satisfying, perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup canned black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1/2 cup corn, canned or frozen
• 1/2 cup diced tomatoes (fresh or canned)
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup jalapeños, diced (fresh or pickled)
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 1/2 cup crushed tortilla chips (for coating)

Instructions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until well blended and creamy.
2. Add the black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, red onion, jalapeños, lime juice, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper to the cheese mixture. Stir until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
3. Using your hands, shape the mixture into a log or cylinder on a piece of plastic wrap. Wrap tightly and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to firm up.
4. Once chilled, remove the cheese log from the plastic wrap and roll it in the crushed tortilla chips until fully coated.
5. Transfer the cheese log to a serving platter and garnish with fresh cilantro. Serve with additional tortilla chips or vegetable sticks for dipping.

Variation

1. Include avocado for extra creaminess and flavor.
2. Try using pepper jack cheese for a spicier kick.
3. Add diced bell peppers for additional color and crunch.

Cooking Notes

1. Ensure cream cheese is fully softened for easy mixing.
2. Taste the mixture before shaping the log to adjust seasoning.
3. Chill thoroughly for a firmer, easier to slice cheese log.

Serving Suggestions

1. Serve with a side of salsa or guacamole for extra flavor.
2. Pair with a refreshing margarita or cold lemonade.
3. Use as a spread on toasted baguette slices for variety.

Tips

• Wear gloves when chopping jalapeños to avoid irritation.
• Use a sharp knife to neatly slice the cheese log.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

Prep Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 320 kcal
• Protein: 9 g
• Sodium: 450 mg

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can this be made vegan?
   Answer: Yes, use vegan cream cheese and cheese alternatives.
2. What if I don’t have tortilla chips?
   Answer: Crushed nuts or seeds can be used as a coating instead.
3. How long can this be stored?
   Answer: It can be refrigerated for up to 3 days.
4. Is it okay to freeze the cheese log?
   Answer: Freezing is not recommended as it may alter the texture.

Conclusion

The Cowboy Caviar Jalapeno Popper Cheese Log is an irresistible appetizer for any occasion. With its blend of creamy, spicy, and crunchy elements, it brings a taste of the Southwest to your table. Easy to prepare and full of vibrant flavors, it’s a surefire hit that caters to both vegetarians and spice lovers alike. Garnish with fresh cilantro for an added burst of freshness and serve with your favorite chips or veggies.

Cowboy Caviar Jalapeno Popper Cheese Log

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• Author: Chef Sophia
• Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This Cowboy Caviar Jalapeno Popper Cheese Log is a crowd-pleasing appetizer combining creamy cheese, fresh veggies, and a hint of spice. Ideal for parties or casual snacking, it’s wrapped in crunchy tortilla chips for a fun twist on traditional cheese logs. With a Tex-Mex flair, it’s flavorful and satisfying, perfect for any occasion.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup canned black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1/2 cup corn, canned or frozen
• 1/2 cup diced tomatoes (fresh or canned)
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup jalapeños, diced (fresh or pickled)
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 1/2 cup crushed tortilla chips (for coating)

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Instructions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until well blended and creamy.
2. Add the black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, red onion, jalapeños, lime juice, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper to the cheese mixture. Stir until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
3. Using your hands, shape the mixture into a log or cylinder on a piece of plastic wrap. Wrap tightly and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to firm up.
4. Once chilled, remove the cheese log from the plastic wrap and roll it in the crushed tortilla chips until fully coated.
5. Transfer the cheese log to a serving platter and garnish with fresh cilantro. Serve with additional tortilla chips or vegetable sticks for dipping.

Notes

• Make ahead: Prepare the cheese log a day in advance to enhance flavors.
• Customize heat: Choose mild or spicy jalapeños based on your preference.
• Quick tip: Keep cheese log refrigerated until just before serving to maintain texture.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: No-cook
• Cuisine: Tex-Mex

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1/8 of cheese log
• Calories: 320 kcal
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 450 mg
• Fat: 26 g
• Saturated Fat: 16 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 15 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Protein: 9 g
• Cholesterol: 75 mg

Keywords: Cowboy Caviar, Cheese Log, Appetizer, Jalapeño Popper