Ruth Stovall'S Olive Surprises
Olive surprises are savory, cheesy bites wrapped in a buttery dough, perfect as appetizers or party snacks with a spicy kick for cheese and olive lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Have butter and cheese at room temperature.
- Blend the butter and grated cheese together with fingertips until well combined.
- Gradually add flour, blending well after each addition.
- Mix in garlic salt and Tabasco sauce until evenly incorporated.
- Break off small bits of dough and flatten them in the palm of your hand.
- Wrap each small dough piece completely around an olive.
- Place the wrapped olives on a cookie sheet.
- Bake at 375°F for about 15 minutes or until lightly browned.
- Do not overcook.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, ensure your butter is softened to room temperature for easy blending. If sharp cheese is too strong, you can substitute with a milder cheese like mozzarella. Consider adding herbs such as dill or parsley for extra flavor. Keep an eye on the baking time as ovens can vary; you want them lightly browned but not overcooked.
Serving Suggestions
These olive surprises make a delightful snack or appetizer for gatherings. Serve them alongside a cheese platter or a fresh salad for a balanced meal. They pair beautifully with Great Brownies for dessert, making for a perfect sweet and savory spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the wrapped olives on a baking sheet and warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes, ensuring they regain their crispiness without drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ruth Stovall'S Olive Surprises contains roughly 156 calories, with 4g protein, 24g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is a good source of iron (12% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 604mg per serving (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 use different types of olives?
Yes, you can experiment with different types of olives, such as kalamata or jalapeño-stuffed olives, to add unique flavors. Just make sure they are pitted and fit well within the dough wrap.
What can I serve these with?
These olive surprises are versatile and can be served with various dips like ranch or spicy mustard. They also complement cocktails well, making them a great addition to a party platter.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and wrap the olives a day in advance. Store them in the refrigerator until you're ready to bake them, ensuring they stay fresh and flavorful.
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).