Cheese Balls With Ripe Olives
Cheese balls with ripe olives offer a creamy, tangy snack with a hint of onion and Worcestershire flavor, perfect for parties or appetizers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream the cream cheese and butter together until smooth.
- Add the chopped ripe olives, chives or grated onion, Worcestershire sauce, and Roka cheese. Mix well.
- Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.
- Divide the chilled mixture into two equal portions and shape each into a ball.
- Roll the cheese balls in chopped nuts to coat.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing. If you're out of ripe olives, green olives can work as a substitute, although they will change the flavor profile. Consider adding herbs like dill for extra flavor or even using flavored cream cheese for variety. Roll the cheese balls in crushed crackers for a different texture, reminiscent of Ritz Cracker Slaw.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these cheese balls as an appetizer with a side of crackers or fresh vegetables for dipping. They pair beautifully with a fruit platter or can be served alongside a refreshing salad, like Frozen Mint Salad, for a delightful contrast. They are perfect for parties, game days, or casual gatherings, offering a savory bite that everyone will enjoy.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cheese balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. If you want to freeze them, wrap each ball tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. To serve, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and allow them to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving for optimal texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheese Balls With Ripe Olives contains roughly 198 calories, with 5g protein, 9g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (30% of the Daily Value) and vitamin A (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 756mg per serving (33% 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 these cheese balls ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the cheese mixture and form the balls a day in advance. Just keep them covered in the fridge until you're ready to serve. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. If you plan to roll them in nuts or other coatings, do that just before serving for the best texture.
What other ingredients can I add to the mixture?
You can customize the cheese balls by adding ingredients like diced peppers, jalapeños for a spicy kick, or even shredded cheese for extra richness. Fresh herbs such as parsley or dill can also enhance the flavor. Just keep in mind that adding too much moisture might affect the texture, so balance it carefully.
How do I know when the cheese balls are ready to serve?
Once chilled for at least an hour, the cheese balls should be firm to the touch. If they seem too soft, you can chill them longer. They should hold their shape well when rolled in nuts or other coatings. Allowing them to sit at room temperature for a short while before serving will make them easier to enjoy.
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).