Spinach And Cheese Appetizers
Creamy spinach and cheese appetizers with a savory blend of Swiss, Parmesan, herbs, and garlic, perfect for parties and gatherings, offering a delicious bite-sized treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Squeeze thawed spinach to extract excess liquid.
- In a large bowl, combine the drained spinach with bread crumbs, eggs, melted butter, grated onion, Swiss cheese, Parmesan cheese, and minced garlic.
- Blend all ingredients well until thoroughly mixed.
- Cover the mixture and refrigerate for 2 to 3 hours.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Roll the chilled mixture into 1-inch balls.
- Place the balls on a lightly greased baking sheet.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes until golden and heated through.
- Serve hot and enjoy.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of your spinach and cheese appetizers, consider adding spices like nutmeg or black pepper. You can substitute the Swiss cheese with mozzarella or feta for a different taste. If you're short on time, skip refrigeration for a quick bake, but chilling helps with shaping the balls. For a crunchier texture, mix in some crushed crackers or nuts.
Serving Suggestions
These appetizers are perfect for parties or as a snack. Serve them alongside a tangy dipping sauce, such as marinara or ranch. They pair beautifully with Onion Roasted Mashed Potatoes for a hearty meal. For a vegetarian option, include a fresh salad or roasted vegetables as side dishes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover spinach and cheese appetizers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make them soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spinach And Cheese Appetizers contains roughly 47 calories, with 2g protein, 7g carbohydrates, and 1g 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 spinach instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh spinach! You'll need about 1 pound of fresh spinach. Sauté it until wilted, then squeeze out the excess liquid before mixing it with the other ingredients. This will give your appetizers a vibrant flavor and texture.
Can I make these appetizers ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture a day in advance, roll it into balls, and refrigerate until you're ready to bake. This allows the flavors to meld and makes it convenient for entertaining or meal prep.
What can I serve with these appetizers?
These spinach and cheese appetizers can be served with a variety of sides. Consider pairing them with a light salad or serving them as part of a platter with dips like hummus or tzatziki. They also go well with a glass of white wine for a delightful combination.
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).