Cheese Ball with Pesto Recipe
Description:
This delightful Cheese Ball with Pesto recipe is a delightful creation from a friendly neighbor, promising a burst of flavor perfect for any holiday gathering or party. Haven’t tried it yet? Well, now’s the time to indulge in its creamy, cheesy goodness paired with the vibrant essence of pesto. Get ready to impress your guests with this delectable treat, ideal for spreading on whole wheat crackers or crispy breadsticks. Let’s dive into the recipe and bring some joy to your table!
- Preparation Time: 3 hours
- Cooking Time: Not Applicable
- Total Time: 3 hours
- Servings: 6
Ingredients:
- 2 packages of cream cheese
- 1/4 cup pesto sauce
- 1/2 cup parmesan cheese
- 3/4 cup romano cheese
- A handful of pine nuts
- Fresh basil leaves
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 408.5
- Fat: 39.9g
- Saturated Fat: 16.9g
- Cholesterol: 90.6mg
- Sodium: 370.9mg
- Carbohydrates: 5.6g
- Fiber: 0.6g
- Sugar: 3.1g
- Protein: 10g
Instructions:
| Step | Instruction |
|---|---|
| 1. | Start by mixing together the pesto sauce, cream cheese, parmesan cheese, and romano cheese in a large mixing bowl until well combined and creamy. |
| 2. | Once the mixture is thoroughly blended, place it onto a sheet of plastic wrap and shape it into a ball. Ensure it is tightly wrapped. |
| 3. | Chill the cheese ball in the refrigerator for a minimum of 3 hours, allowing it to firm up and develop its flavors. For best results, you can refrigerate it overnight. |
| 4. | After chilling, remove the plastic wrap from the cheese ball and carefully transfer it onto a serving plate. |
| 5. | Take a handful of pine nuts and press them firmly onto the surface of the cheese ball, ensuring they adhere well. The pine nuts will add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor to the cheese ball. |
| 6. | Once adorned with pine nuts, return the cheese ball to the refrigerator to chill until serving time. This will help the flavors meld together and ensure the cheese ball maintains its shape. |
| 7. | When ready to serve, take the cheese ball out of the refrigerator about an hour before serving to allow it to come to room temperature. This will enhance its creamy texture and make it easier to spread. |
| 8. | Garnish the cheese ball with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and added freshness just before serving. |
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve the Cheese Ball with Pesto alongside a selection of whole wheat crackers, breadsticks, or crudites for dipping.
- Pair with a refreshing white wine or sparkling beverage to complement the rich flavors of the cheese and pesto.
- Enjoy as an appetizer at your next holiday party, family gathering, or potluck dinner. It’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
Notes:
- For a variation, you can experiment with different types of cheeses or add additional ingredients such as chopped sun-dried tomatoes, roasted garlic, or chopped fresh herbs to customize the flavor profile of the cheese ball.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Simply re-roll the cheese ball in fresh pine nuts before serving to freshen up its appearance.
- Don’t forget to share this recipe with friends and family – it’s too good to keep to yourself!
