Aunt Sally'S Olive Shells
A delightful appetizer featuring stuffed green olives wrapped in a savory cheese dough. The crispy, golden exterior complements the salty, briny olives inside, making it perfect for parties or casual gatherings. Rich in flavor with a hint of paprika, these treats are sure to impress guests and satisfy snack cravings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Blend together the shredded American cheese, softened butter or margarine, paprika, and salt until well combined.
- Stir in the sifted flour into the cheese mixture to form a dough.
- Chill the dough for easier handling.
- Wrap a small piece of dough around each green olive, sealing well.
- Place the wrapped olives on an ungreased baking sheet.
- Bake in a 400°F oven for 15 minutes or until lightly browned.
- Serve warm.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, ensure the butter is softened at room temperature for easier blending. If you want a bit of a kick, consider adding a dash of cayenne pepper to the cheese mixture. You can substitute the process American cheese with cheddar for a sharper flavor, though the texture may vary. Chill the dough for about 30 minutes to make it easier to handle. This recipe is a fantastic appetizer for gatherings, perfect alongside dishes like Chile Cheese Squares.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these olive shells warm as a delightful appetizer or snack. They pair wonderfully with a fresh salad or vegetable platter. Consider serving them with a dipping sauce, such as a spicy mustard or ranch dressing, to enhance their flavor. For a complete spread, include other appetizers like Grandma'S Apple Dumplings or various cheeses and crackers.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover olive shells in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through and crispy again. Avoid reheating in the microwave, as they may become soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Aunt Sally'S Olive Shells contains roughly 54 calories, with 1g protein, 0g carbohydrates, and 6g fat.
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 the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough a day in advance. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. When ready to use, let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes to soften slightly before wrapping the olives.
What can I use instead of green olives?
If you're not a fan of green olives, you can use pimento-stuffed olives or even whole black olives for a milder taste. Just ensure they are pitted for easy wrapping. This can also cater to different flavor preferences.
Can I freeze the wrapped olive shells?
Absolutely! You can freeze the wrapped olive shells before baking. Place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer bag. When ready to cook, bake them directly from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time.
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).