Bring a taste of the Mediterranean to your table with this bold and flavorful cheese ball. Packed with feta, sun-dried tomatoes, and olives, it’s a perfect appetizer for any gathering.
Did You Know?
Feta cheese is one of the oldest cheeses in the world, dating back to ancient Greece. Made from sheep’s or goat’s milk, its tangy, salty flavor is a staple in Mediterranean cuisine, offering a rich history and delicious taste.
Yield
Serves 6–8
Ingredients
8 oz cream cheese, softened
6 oz crumbled feta cheese
1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, finely chopped
1/4 cup kalamata olives, finely chopped
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 cup walnuts, finely chopped
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
Instructions
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and crumbled feta cheese. Blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Stir in the finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes, kalamata olives, and oregano, mixing until the ingredients are evenly distributed.
Spoon the cheese mixture onto a sheet of plastic wrap. Shape it into a ball, wrap tightly, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld and the mixture to firm up.
In a shallow dish, mix the finely chopped walnuts and parsley. Unwrap the chilled cheese ball and roll it in the walnut-parsley mixture, ensuring it is fully coated on all sides.
Place the coated cheese ball on a serving platter and let it sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before serving. Serve with pita chips, vegetable sticks, or crostini for dipping.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Calories: 180, Protein: 6g, Carbohydrates: 4g, Fiber: 1g, Net Carbohydrates: 3g, Fat: 15g, Saturated Fat: 7g, Cholesterol: 25mg, Sodium: 250mg, Sugars: 2g, Glycemic Index: Low
Kitchen Tips, Great Ideas, How to Save Money
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Softening cream cheese is key to a smooth mixture. Leave it at room temperature for 20–30 minutes before blending.
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For a nut-free version, substitute the walnut coating with crushed sesame seeds or crushed pita chips for added crunch.
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Use marinated sun-dried tomatoes or olives for an extra tangy and rich taste to enhance the Mediterranean flavor.
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If you prefer a lighter cheese ball, use reduced-fat cream cheese and feta to cut back on calories and fat without sacrificing flavor.
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Double the recipe for larger gatherings or shape the mixture into smaller cheese balls for individual portions that are easier to serve.
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Leftovers make a great spread for wraps, bagels, or sandwiches. Store in an airtight container to keep the flavors fresh.
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Keep the cheese ball refrigerated until just before serving to maintain its texture and freshness. Let it sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before serving for the best flavor.
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If preparing ahead, the cheese ball can be stored, wrapped tightly, for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. This makes it an excellent option for holiday planning.
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Garnish the cheese ball with additional parsley or a drizzle of olive oil for a more polished presentation before serving.
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Save money by buying feta cheese and nuts in bulk or when on sale, and use store-brand cream cheese to cut costs without compromising quality.
Let’s Learn About Feta Cheese
Feta is a soft, crumbly cheese traditionally made from sheep’s milk or a mix of sheep’s and goat’s milk, or cows milk. Its salty, tangy flavor is a cornerstone of Mediterranean cuisine, often used in salads, pastries, and dips.
When buying feta, look for varieties that are brined, as this keeps the cheese moist and enhances its flavor. Authentic Greek feta is protected by a PDO (Protected Designation of Origin) label, ensuring high-quality cheese made in Greece using traditional methods. Adding feta to a cheese ball provides a bold flavor and creamy texture that pairs perfectly with the other Mediterranean ingredients.