Are you looking for a quick and easy appetizer that's guaranteed to impress your guests? Look no further! These cheese olive balls are the perfect solution for your next gathering, offering a delightful blend of salty, savory, and cheesy goodness. They're incredibly simple to make, requiring minimal ingredients and even less effort. Perfect for a quick weeknight snack or a sophisticated party platter, these little bites are a crowd-pleaser, every single time. This recipe is part of our collection of easy recipes and healthy meals, perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup pitted Kalamata olives, roughly chopped
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- 1/2 cup bread crumbs
- 1/4 cup olive oil, for frying
Instructions:
Step 1: Combining the Ingredients
In a medium bowl, combine the chopped olives, softened cream cheese, Parmesan cheese, parsley, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated. The mixture should be relatively smooth and easy to handle.
Step 2: Shaping the Balls
Once the mixture is well combined, use your hands to roll it into small, bite-sized balls. Aim for a size that’s easy to pop in your mouth in one or two bites.
Step 3: Breadcrumb Coating
Place the bread crumbs in a shallow dish. Roll each cheese olive ball in the breadcrumbs, ensuring they are evenly coated. This step adds a lovely crunch and texture.
Step 4: Frying the Balls (Optional)
For a crispier exterior, heat the olive oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. Carefully place the breaded cheese olive balls in the hot oil and fry for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and heated through. Alternatively, you can bake them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Step 5: Serving and Enjoying
Remove the cheese olive balls from the skillet or oven and let them cool slightly before serving. These delicious appetizers are best enjoyed warm, but they’re also great at room temperature. Serve them with toothpicks for easy grabbing and enjoy!
Tips and Variations:
- For a richer flavor: Use a mixture of different olives, such as Castelvetrano or Cerignola olives.
- Add some spice: Incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce into the mixture.
- Make it herby: Experiment with different herbs, such as chives, oregano, or basil.
- For a vegetarian option: Ensure your cream cheese is vegetarian-friendly.
- Make it ahead: You can prepare the cheese olive balls ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until ready to fry or bake.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 100-120
- Fat: 8-10g
- Protein: 3-4g
- Carbohydrates: 5-7g
These cheese olive balls are a fantastic addition to any appetizer spread. They're a quick and easy homemade cooking project that yields delicious results, making them a perfect choice for both experienced cooks and those new to the kitchen. Enjoy this simple, yet elegant, recipe and discover a new favorite among your quick dinner ideas and best recipes!