Cheese And Olive Appetizers
Cheese and olive appetizers are savory, cheesy bites with a touch of paprika, perfect for parties or gatherings, offering a delightful mix of flavors and textures.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix together the flour, grated cheese, and soft butter until it resembles pie crust.
- Chill the mixture in the refrigerator.
- Work the chilled dough together with your hands.
- Take one tablespoon of the dough and shape it into a ball.
- Insert a small stuffed olive into the center of each ball.
- Chill or freeze the formed appetizers until ready to bake.
- Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 10 to 12 minutes or until slightly brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, consider using a mixture of all-purpose flour and almond flour. You can also substitute the sharp Cracker Barrel cheese with any aged cheese you prefer. If you want a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dough. Make sure to chill the dough well to make it easier to handle. This recipe can be a great appetizer alongside your favorite vegetarian recipes.
Serving Suggestions
These cheese and olive appetizers are perfect for parties or casual gatherings. Serve them alongside a refreshing Vanilla-Maple Milkshake for a delightful contrast. They also pair beautifully with a platter of fresh vegetables and dips. Consider offering a selection of olives to enhance the flavor experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover appetizers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave them for about 20-30 seconds, but they may lose some crispiness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheese And Olive Appetizers contains roughly 69 calories, with 2g protein, 11g carbohydrates, and 2g 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 and keep it wrapped in plastic wrap in the refrigerator. Just make sure to let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before shaping the balls and inserting the olives.
What kind of olives should I use?
You can use any small stuffed olives, such as green olives with pimentos or kalamata olives for a more robust flavor. Just ensure they fit well into the dough balls for easy snacking.
Can I freeze the appetizers before baking?
Absolutely! After shaping the dough balls and inserting the olives, place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top bag for up to three months. Bake them directly from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking 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).