Appetizer Loaf
A savory chilled appetizer loaf packed with cream cheese, vegetables, and olives, perfect for entertaining and served with crackers and garnished with stuffed olives.
Ingredients
- 1 pkg. creamed English cheese or Philadelphia creamed cheese ⓘ
- 2 Tbsp. chopped onion ⓘ
- 3 Tbsp. chopped green pepper ⓘ
- 3 stuffed olives, chopped ⓘ
- 2 Tbsp. chopped sour pickles ⓘ
- 1 Tbsp. chopped pimento ⓘ
- 1 hard-boiled egg, chopped
- 1/2 c. cracker crumbs ⓘ
- 4 Tbsp. Miracle Whip salad dressing ⓘ
- 1/2 tsp. salt ⓘ
Instructions
- Shred or cream the English cheese or Philadelphia creamed cheese.
- Mix the creamed cheese well with chopped onion, green pepper, chopped stuffed olives, chopped sour pickles, chopped pimento, chopped hard-boiled egg, cracker crumbs, Miracle Whip salad dressing, and salt.
- Form the mixture into a roll and wrap it in wax paper.
- Chill overnight.
- Place the chilled roll on lettuce leaves on an appetizer tray, garnish with stuffed olives, and serve with crackers.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using whipped cream cheese instead of regular creamed cheese. You can also substitute Greek yogurt for Miracle Whip for a healthier twist. If you prefer a spicier flavor, add some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. This dish can be made a day ahead, saving time for your event. It's also a great way to use up leftover ingredients, making it a versatile addition to your appetizer spread.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Appetizer Loaf on a platter lined with fresh lettuce leaves for a colorful presentation. Pair it with a selection of crackers, and consider adding a side of Dee'S Spinach And Artichoke Dip for a delightful variety. This loaf also works well as a filling for sandwiches or wraps, making it versatile for different occasions. Garnish with extra stuffed olives for an impressive touch.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Appetizer Loaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best flavor and texture, enjoy it cold. If you need to reheat it, slice portions and warm them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, but it's best served chilled. Avoid reheating the entire loaf to maintain its structure.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Appetizer Loaf contains roughly 472 calories, with 14g protein, 60g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2617mg per serving (114% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, you can make a vegan version of the Appetizer Loaf by using plant-based cream cheese and vegan mayonnaise as substitutes for the creamed cheese and Miracle Whip. Additionally, ensure that all other ingredients, such as olives and pickles, are vegan-friendly. This adaptation will cater to those following a vegan diet while still providing great flavor.
How can I add more flavor to the loaf?
To enhance the flavor of your Appetizer Loaf, try adding fresh herbs like dill, parsley, or chives to the mixture. You can also incorporate spices such as garlic powder, onion powder, or paprika for an extra kick. Experimenting with different types of olives can also introduce a new dimension of taste to this dish.
What can I serve with this dish for a party?
For a party, serve the Appetizer Loaf with a variety of dippable sides like vegetable sticks, pita chips, or cheese platters. Pair it with drinks like sparkling water or a light white wine. You could also provide a selection of spreads, such as hummus or guacamole, to complement the flavors of the loaf and create a more diverse appetizer spread.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).