Spanish Olive Cheese Ball
A creamy, savory cheese ball infused with olives and garlic, perfect for parties or gatherings, served with crackers and garnished with herbs for an elegant touch.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In an electric mixer bowl, beat at medium speed the cheese spreads and cream cheese with chives.
- Add garlic powder and chopped pimiento-stuffed olives until smooth.
- Stir in walnuts.
- Cover and chill several hours.
- Shape into a ball.
- Garnish with pimiento-stuffed olive slices, parsley sprigs, and pimiento strips, if desired.
- Cover and chill until serving time.
- Serve with crackers.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using a full-fat cream cheese instead of the softened variety. If you want to enhance the flavor, try adding a dash of Worcestershire sauce or a pinch of smoked paprika. You can substitute the pimiento-stuffed olives with kalamata olives for a more robust taste. This cheese ball also pairs beautifully with Johnny'S Mac And Cheese for a complete spread.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the cheese ball with an array of crackers, fresh vegetables, or toasted baguette slices for dipping. It also makes a great addition to a cheese platter alongside fruits and nuts. For a festive touch, garnish with parsley sprigs and colorful pimiento strips. This dish is an excellent appetizer for gatherings or parties.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. To maintain its shape, keep the cheese ball wrapped in plastic wrap. If you want to serve it warm, allow it to sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving. Avoid reheating in the microwave, as it can alter the texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spanish Olive Cheese Ball contains roughly 294 calories, with 12g protein, 34g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 579mg per serving (25% 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 make this cheese ball ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, making it a day in advance allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just shape it into a ball, cover it tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate. This also makes it a stress-free option for entertaining.
What can I use instead of cream cheese?
If you're looking for a lighter option, you can replace cream cheese with Greek yogurt or a vegan cream cheese alternative. Just be aware that the flavor and texture may vary slightly, but it will still be delicious.
How can I customize the flavor of the cheese ball?
Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices. Adding fresh herbs like dill or thyme can elevate the taste. You can also mix in some chopped sun-dried tomatoes or even bacon bits for a savory twist. The possibilities are endless!
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).