Cucumber Cheese Ball
A creamy, flavorful cheese ball infused with fresh cucumber, red bell pepper, and chives, perfect for parties or snacking. Its refreshing taste and smooth texture make it a crowd-pleaser, especially suited for those who enjoy savory, veggie-forward appetizers with a hint of onion and herbs.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Choose small pickling cucumbers for the best flavor and texture, especially if you prefer pickling cucumbers, as they are smaller and contain fewer seeds.
- Peel and finely chop the cucumber.
- Finely dice the purple onion and red bell pepper.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese and mayonnaise until smooth.
- Add the chopped cucumber, purple onion, red bell pepper, and chopped chives to the mixture.
- Season with salt to taste.
- Mix everything thoroughly to form a uniform mixture.
- Shape the mixture into a ball or mold as desired.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
Tips & Substitutions
For the best flavor, opt for small pickling cucumbers, which are less seedy and have a crisp texture. If you don't have chives, green onions or parsley can be great substitutes. You can also adjust the cream cheese and mayonnaise ratio based on your desired creaminess. For a spicy kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Cucumber Cheese Ball with an assortment of crackers or fresh vegetable sticks for dipping. It pairs beautifully with Carrot-Orange-Yogurt Bars for a refreshing contrast. Consider adding a side of hummus or a simple salad to create a light lunch or appetizer spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. It is best enjoyed cold, so there's no need to reheat. If the mixture seems too firm after refrigeration, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving to soften slightly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cucumber Cheese Ball contains roughly 114 calories, with 3g protein, 5g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (46% of the Daily Value) and vitamin A (26% 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 Cucumber Cheese Ball ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cheese ball a day in advance. Just shape it and refrigerate it, allowing the flavors to meld overnight. Cover it with plastic wrap to keep it fresh. Let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving for optimal texture.
What can I use instead of cream cheese?
If you're looking for a lighter option, you can substitute cream cheese with Greek yogurt or a vegan cream cheese alternative. Just keep in mind that the texture and flavor will differ slightly, so adjust the seasoning accordingly to maintain taste.
Can I add other vegetables to the cheese ball?
Absolutely! Feel free to get creative by adding finely chopped carrots, celery, or even olives for extra flavor. Just make sure to keep the proportions balanced so that the cheese ball maintains its structure and flavor profile.
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).