Salmon Cheese Balls
Creamy, smoky salmon cheese balls with a tangy lemon kick, perfect as an appetizer or party snack for seafood lovers and those who enjoy rich, flavorful bites.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix cream cheese, baked salmon, chopped onion, lemon juice, horseradish, liquid smoke, and orange food color until well combined.
- Divide the mixture into three equal balls.
- Wrap each ball in Saran Wrap and refrigerate until firm.
- Roll each chilled ball in finely chopped nuts before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance flavor, consider adding fresh dill or chives to the mixture. If you prefer a milder taste, reduce the horseradish. For a creamier texture, you can substitute some cream cheese with Greek yogurt. If you don't have orange food color, it's optional—just skip it or use a touch of paprika for a different hue.
Serving Suggestions
These salmon cheese balls make an excellent appetizer for gatherings. Serve them alongside Sterling Crackers(Party Snacks) or fresh vegetable sticks for a delightful crunch. They pair beautifully with a tangy dipping sauce, or you can enjoy them as part of a seafood platter with other appetizers like Zippy Shrimp Dip.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover salmon cheese balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you’d like to freeze them, wrap each ball in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. To reheat, let them thaw in the fridge overnight and serve cold or at room temperature.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Salmon Cheese Balls contains roughly 57 calories, with 1g protein, 7g carbohydrates, and 3g fat.
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 fresh salmon instead of canned?
Yes, you can use cooked, flaked fresh salmon in place of canned salmon. Just ensure it's well-seasoned before mixing it with the other ingredients to maintain flavor.
How long do these cheese balls need to chill?
Chilling for at least 2 hours is recommended to ensure the cheese balls firm up properly. For best results, you can refrigerate them overnight before serving.
What can I serve with the salmon cheese balls?
These cheese balls are versatile! They pair well with crackers, fresh veggies, or even on a bagel. You can also serve them with a side of lemon wedges or a light salad for a refreshing meal.
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).