Black Olive Cheese Ball
A creamy and savory cheese ball packed with the rich flavors of blue cheese, black olives, and chives. Perfect as an appetizer or party snack, it combines smooth textures with bold tastes, topped with paprika for a hint of color and spice, appealing to cheese lovers and olive enthusiasts alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Blend together the Philadelphia cream cheese, Kraft Roka Blue cheese, and butter until smooth.
- Add the coarsely chopped black olives and chopped chives to the mixture and blend well.
- Mold the mixture into a ball shape and refrigerate until firm.
- Sprinkle the cheese ball with paprika before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature before blending. If you want a milder flavor, consider using a milder cheese instead of Kraft Roka Blue. Fresh herbs can be substituted for chives, or you can add a dash of garlic powder for extra flavor. Experiment with different types of olives for varied taste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Black Olive Cheese Ball with an assortment of crackers, fresh vegetable sticks, or sliced baguette for a delightful appetizer. It pairs beautifully with American recipes like a Beef Burger Barbecue for a hearty gathering. Consider garnishing with extra chives or olives for a beautiful presentation.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. If the cheese ball becomes too soft, you can reshape it before serving. Avoid freezing, as the texture may change. Bring it to room temperature before serving for the best flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Black Olive Cheese Ball contains roughly 310 calories, with 17g protein, 53g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (280% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (221% of the Daily Value), and iron (104% of the Daily Value). At about 310 calories per serving, it is a lighter, protein-rich choice.
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 cheese ball ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cheese ball a day in advance. Shape it and refrigerate until firm. Just remember to sprinkle paprika on top right before serving for a fresh look and flavor.
What can I use instead of black olives?
If you prefer, you can substitute green olives or a mix of both black and green olives for a different flavor profile. Just make sure to adjust the amount based on your taste preference.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this recipe is suitable for vegetarians as it contains no meat products. However, ensure that the cheeses used are made from vegetarian-friendly sources, as some rennet can be animal-derived.
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).