Lil'S Cheese Ball
A creamy, savory cheese ball with green onions, olives, and crunchy pecans, perfect as an appetizer for parties or gatherings, offering a delightful blend of flavors and textures.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Blend the cream cheese, margarine, chopped green onions, and drained chopped black olives.
- Roll the mixture into a ball and refrigerate until firm.
- Slightly roast the chopped pecans, then roll the cheese ball in the pecans to coat.
- Refrigerate until firm and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using full-fat cream cheese. If you prefer a lighter option, Neufchâtel cheese works well as a substitute. Fresh herbs like dill or parsley can enhance the flavor profile. For added depth, include some smoked paprika or cayenne pepper for a kick. If you don't have pecans, walnuts or almonds can be used for a different crunch.
Serving Suggestions
This cheese ball is perfect for gatherings and pairs beautifully with crackers, sliced vegetables, or toasted baguette slices. Consider serving it alongside a fresh fruit platter or a bowl of olives for a complete appetizer spread. It complements dishes like Elegant Potato Salad for a delightful picnic or party offering.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. If you want to make it ahead, you can prepare the cheese ball and roll it in pecans, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. It can be frozen for up to 2 months; just thaw it in the refrigerator before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lil'S Cheese Ball contains roughly 444 calories, with 9g protein, 11g carbohydrates, and 43g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2088mg per serving (91% 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 use different kinds of cheese in this recipe?
Yes, you can experiment with different cheeses such as goat cheese or feta for a tangier flavor. Just remember to adjust the amount of cream cheese based on the texture and creaminess you desire.
How long does it take for the cheese ball to firm up in the refrigerator?
Typically, it takes about 2 hours for the cheese ball to firm up in the refrigerator. If you prefer a firmer texture, you can leave it for longer, even overnight, before rolling it in pecans.
Is this cheese ball suitable for vegetarian diets?
Yes, this cheese ball is suitable for vegetarian diets as it contains no meat products. Just make sure to check the ingredients in the margarine if you're serving it to strict vegetarians.
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).