Islander Cheese Ball
A creamy, tangy cheese ball infused with pineapple and green peppers, coated with crunchy pecans. Perfect for parties, this versatile appetizer can be shaped into a large ball or logs, offering a delightful mix of flavors and textures that appeal to a crowd or family gathering.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the softened cream cheese and drained crushed pineapple with a mixer until well combined.
- Stir in chopped green onions, chopped green pepper, seasoned salt, and 1/2 cup of chopped pecans.
- Shape the mixture into one large ball, two logs, or fill a scooped out fresh pineapple half.
- Roll or top the shaped cheese mixture with the remaining chopped pecans.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, ensure the cream cheese is thoroughly softened before mixing. You can substitute chopped walnuts for pecans if desired. Add a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick or consider incorporating herbs like dill for added flavor. This cheese ball can be made a day in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully overnight.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this cheese ball with an assortment of crackers, fresh vegetables, or toasted baguette slices for a delightful appetizer. It pairs beautifully with Russian Salad for a festive spread. Consider adding a fruit platter or sweet chutney on the side to balance the savory flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover cheese ball in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. If you've shaped it into a ball, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap to maintain its shape and freshness. It is not recommended to freeze this dish, as the texture may change when thawed.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Islander Cheese Ball contains roughly 456 calories, with 8g protein, 18g carbohydrates, and 43g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (30% of the Daily Value) and vitamin C (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1795mg per serving (78% 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 cheese ball ahead of time?
Absolutely! Preparing the cheese ball a day in advance allows the flavors to develop. Just store it in the refrigerator wrapped tightly in plastic wrap until you're ready to serve.
What can I use instead of pecans?
If you prefer a different nut, walnuts or almonds work well as substitutes for pecans. You can also omit nuts entirely for a nut-free version, or use seeds like sunflower seeds for added crunch.
How can I make this cheese ball more flavorful?
To enhance the flavor, consider adding minced garlic, fresh herbs like parsley or dill, or a splash of Worcestershire sauce. These additions can elevate the taste and make it even more delicious.
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).