The Ultimate Savory Snack: Mediterranean Cheese Balls
Looking for an appetizer that’s effortlessly elegant and bursting with flavor? These Mediterranean Cheese Balls are your answer! Imagine rich, creamy cheese infused with the tangy bite of sun-dried tomatoes, the salty punch of Kalamata olives, and a vibrant mix of fresh herbs. Rolled in sharp Parmesan, each bite is a savory delight. They’re perfect for parties, a sophisticated snack, or a fantastic addition to your keto meal plan. Let’s get rolling!
Ingredients
• 1 cup / 226g cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup / 226g ghee, softened
• 5 Tbsp / 25g parmesan cheese, grated
• 1/4 cup / 30g sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 1/4 cup / 35g Kalamata olives, pitted and chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, crushed
• 3 Tbsp mixed fresh herbs (basil, parsley, thyme, oregano, parsnip, mint), chopped
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Preparation1. In a large bowl, combine the cream cheese and ghee. Let them sit at room temperature for 30-45 minutes to soften completely.2. Using a fork or a hand mixer, beat the softened ghee and cream cheese together until smooth and well combined. Fold in the chopped Kalamata olives and sun-dried tomatoes.3. Stir in the fresh herb mix and crushed garlic. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper to your liking. Cover the bowl and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to allow the mixture to firm up.4. Once chilled, remove the cheese mixture from the fridge and form it into 4 equal-sized balls. Spread the grated Parmesan cheese on a small plate and gently roll each ball until it’s evenly coated.5. Place the finished cheese balls on a serving plate and return them to the fridge for another 30 minutes to set completely. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Nutritional Information
• Nutrition FactsServings: 4Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
• Calories: 157
• Total Fat: 14g
• Protein: 4.6g
• Total Carbohydrates: 4g
• Dietary Fiber: 0.5g
• Net Carbs: 1g
Pro Tips
• For a quicker softening time, cut the cream cheese into smaller cubes before letting it sit at room temperature.
• Serve these cheese balls with low-carb crackers, cucumber slices, or celery sticks for a complete keto-friendly appetizer platter.
• Feel free to swap the Parmesan coating for chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts, or even toasted sesame seeds for a different texture and flavor.
FAQ
Q: Are these Mediterranean cheese balls keto-friendly
A: Yes, absolutely. With only 1g of net carbs per serving, these cheese balls are a perfect savory snack or appetizer for a ketogenic or low-carb diet.
Q: What can I serve with these cheese balls
A: For a complete keto-friendly appetizer platter, serve these cheese balls with low-carb crackers, fresh cucumber slices, or celery sticks.
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time
A: Yes, this recipe is ideal for making ahead. The cheese mixture needs to chill for at least 1 hour to firm up and another 30 minutes after being rolled, so you can easily prepare them before your guests arrive.
Q: Is there a substitute for the Parmesan cheese coating
A: Certainly. For a different flavor and texture, you can roll the cheese balls in chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts, or even toasted sesame seeds instead of Parmesan.
