Olive-Cheese Ball
A rich and tangy cheese ball combining creamy blue cheese, smooth cream cheese, and savory olives, accented with chives and crunchy walnuts. Perfect as an appetizer for parties or gatherings, offering a delightful blend of flavors and textures that appeal to cheese lovers and those seeking a savory, crowd-pleasing dip.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Blend the cream cheese and oleo until smooth.
- Stir in the crumbled blue cheese, chopped olives, and minced chives.
- Chill the mixture for easier shaping.
- Form the mixture into a ball shape.
- Chill the cheese ball thoroughly.
- Before serving, sprinkle chopped walnuts over the ball.
- Serve with crackers.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing. If you're not a fan of blue cheese, try substituting it with feta or goat cheese for a milder flavor. Chilling the mixture helps in shaping the ball more easily, so don't skip that step. You can also roll the cheese ball in different toppings like herbs or spices for an extra kick.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the olive-cheese ball with an assortment of crackers or sliced vegetables for dipping. It pairs beautifully with Hallelujah Pie for a delightful appetizer spread. You can also add a selection of olives and nuts on the side to complement the flavors. This dish is perfect for parties or casual gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. If you need to reheat, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to soften before serving again, as it is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature. Do not freeze, as the texture may change.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Olive-Cheese Ball contains roughly 250 calories, with 5g protein, 7g carbohydrates, and 24g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (55% of the Daily Value) and vitamin A (38% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and protein.
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 olive-cheese ball in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the olive-cheese ball a day ahead. Simply follow the recipe, shape it, and chill it in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld together nicely, enhancing the taste when served.
What types of crackers go well with this cheese ball?
Pair the olive-cheese ball with a variety of crackers, such as water crackers, whole grain, or even flavored varieties. This adds texture and complements the rich flavors of the cheese, making each bite enjoyable.
Can I use different types of nuts?
Absolutely! While walnuts add a nice crunch, you can substitute them with pecans or almonds if you prefer. Just make sure to chop them finely to ensure they stick well to the cheese ball when rolled.
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).