Introduction:
Pineapple Cheeseball is an irresistible appetizer that everyone enjoys saying yes to. It takes only a few short moments to prepare, and it is not hard to tweak it to preference. This heavenly dish is perfect for either formally or informally welcoming guests, as it acts as a garnishing food to have over skillfully made dishes on the table.
Ingredients:
2 packs of cream cheese (8 oz each), softened
1 can (8 oz) of pineapple with fine grains, well drained
1/2 cup of finely chopped green bell pepper
1/4 cup of onion, finely chopped south of the border (can be red or white)1 teaspoon of seasoned salt or garlic powder
1 cup of pecans or walnuts, chopped nuts (for coating)
Crackers or vegetables for serving
Instructions:
Combine the softened cream cheese with the drained pineapple alongside the chopped bell pepper, onion, and seasoned salt in a mixing bowl.
Step 1. Gear up to evenly blend all ingredients!
Upon achieving that objective, shape the blended constituents into a ball with plastic wrap or simply clean hands.
Step 2. Build mounting excitement by placing it in the fridge for 1-2 hour until shine,
Once the amount of time has passed, grab those chopped nuts and form your newly shaped cheeseball, spicing it with nuts until they are fully hidden.
Step 3. For absolute perfection, serve these delightful goodies alongside pretzels or crackers or even sliced veggies, allow preference for choice!
Hints for Success:
Make sure to drain the pineapple by using a mesh strainer and pressing with paper towels gently, as to avoid excess moisture.
Chill prior to shaping if the mixture seems overly soft for your liking.
To achieve a tighter, tidier shape, use plastic wrap when molding.
To enhance flavor and crisp, lightly toast the nuts first.
It’s best to prepare this recipe the day before so that the ingredients blend synergistically.
Dietary Benefits:
Pineapple has high concentrations of vitamin C and digestive aids such as bromelain.
Cream cheese aids in providing calcium, a protein source (opt for lower-fat versions to lighten the dish), and reduced fat options.
Bell pepper and onion aids provide antioxidants, Vitamin A, Vitamin C, and dietary fiber.
Nuts provide high amounts of healthful fats and plant protein.
Nutritional Information
Servings per container: 120
Total fat: 10g
Total carbohydrate: 4g
Sugar: 2g
Protein: 2g
Sodium: 150mg
Variations and Substitutions:
Sweet sensation: Mix in cinnamon and honey to turn it into a dessert cheeseball.
Vegan/Dairy-free: Responsibilities can be shared by using alternative cream cheeses.
Southeast Asian Heat: for additional heat, sprinkle with cayenne or mix in some jalapeños.
Nut-free version: use fresh herbs or switch them out for crushed cornflakes or pretzels.
Change it up: use shredded cheddar, or mix in bacon bits and dried cranberries to achieve new flavor profiles.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Is it possible to prepare it ahead?
A: Indeed! The optimal time is one day in advance—but you must refrigerate it.
Q: What’s its shelf-life in the fridge?
A: An airtight container can extend its lifespan for 4-5 days.
Q: Freezer option?
A: Yes, but it has to be coated in nuts beforehand. It’ll stay fresh for a month so long in the freezer. Coat it before serving after thawing in the fridge.
Q: What to complement with?
A: Serve with cucumbers, celery, fresh-cut piata chips, crackers, or pretzels.
Q: Am I allowed to make it into mini cheeseballs?
A: No doubt! This is perfect for parties so you can shape them into bite-size balls and serve them individually.
Conclusion:
The combination of rich and creamy with crunchy flavors melts well together in the Heavenly Pineapple Cheeseball. It is easy to prepare and makes a great snack for dinner dates or for social parties. Feel free to add your own custom flavors. Enjoy!
