Spanish Balls
Savory Spanish Balls combine spinach, herbs, and cheese into delicious bite-sized appetizers perfect for parties or snacking, offering a flavorful and satisfying vegetarian option.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients; chill.
- Shape into balls.
- Bake 20 minutes at 350°F or until they start to brown slightly.
Tips & Substitutions
For enhanced flavor, consider adding chopped fresh herbs like parsley or basil. If you're out of Parmesan, a mix of mozzarella and cheddar can provide a creamy texture. You can also use gluten-free stuffing mix if needed. To save time, pre-chop the onion and thaw the spinach overnight. This dish works well as a starter or a party snack.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these Spanish Balls as a delightful appetizer with a side of marinara or garlic aioli for dipping. They pair beautifully with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. For a vegetarian option, consider serving alongside Baked Celery And Mushrooms to create a diverse platter.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the balls on a baking sheet and warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and slightly crispy. Avoid microwaving, as this can make them soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spanish Balls contains roughly 510 calories, with 17g protein, 102g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (59% of the Daily Value), iron (42% of the Daily Value), and calcium (34% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. It also contributes 17g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 freeze the Spanish Balls before baking?
Yes, you can freeze the shaped balls before baking. Place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer bag. When ready to cook, bake from frozen, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the cooking time to ensure they are heated through.
What can I use instead of eggs in this recipe?
If you're looking for an egg substitute, consider using flaxseed meal or chia seeds mixed with water (1 tablespoon flax or chia seeds with 2.5 tablespoons water equals one egg). This will help bind the ingredients while keeping the recipe vegetarian-friendly.
How can I make these Spanish Balls spicier?
To add some heat, incorporate finely chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes into the mixture. You can also serve them with a spicy dipping sauce to kick up the flavor profile. Experiment with spices like cayenne or smoked paprika for a unique twist.
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).