Ingredients with Measurements:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup giardiniera, drained and finely chopped
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
Special equipment needed:
- Mixing bowl
- Electric mixer
- Plastic wrap
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, giardiniera, green onions, parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.
2. Place a large sheet of plastic wrap on a flat surface. Spoon the cheese mixture onto the plastic wrap and shape it into a ball.
3. Wrap the plastic wrap tightly around the cheese ball and place it in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to chill.
4. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
5. Spread the chopped pecans on the prepared baking sheet and toast them in the oven for 5-7 minutes, or until lightly browned and fragrant.
6. Remove the cheese ball from the refrigerator and unwrap it from the plastic wrap. Roll the cheese ball in the toasted pecans, pressing the nuts into the cheese to adhere.
7. Place the cheese ball on a serving platter and serve with crackers or sliced vegetables.
- Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Chilling time: 1 hour
- Cooking time: 5-7 minutes
Temperature:
- Oven temperature: 350°F
Serving size:
- Makes one cheese ball, serves 6-8 people
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 180
- Fat: 16g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Protein: 5g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 2g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Cream cheese: can be substituted with vegan cream cheese or Greek yogurt
- Cheddar cheese: can be substituted with any shredded cheese of your choice
- Giardiniera: can be substituted with chopped pickles or roasted red peppers
- Pecans: can be substituted with any chopped nuts of your choice
Variations:
- Add cooked and crumbled bacon to the cheese mixture for a smoky flavor.
- Use different herbs and spices to customize the flavor of the cheese ball.
- Roll the cheese ball in different toppings, such as chopped herbs, crushed crackers, or bacon bits.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened before mixing to ensure a smooth and creamy texture.
- Use a food processor to finely chop the giardiniera for easier mixing.
- Chill the cheese ball for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
Storage instructions:
- Store the cheese ball in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
- The cheese ball is best served cold, but can be brought to room temperature before serving.
Presentation ideas:
- Place the cheese ball on a bed of fresh herbs or sliced vegetables for a colorful presentation.
- Serve the cheese ball on a wooden board or platter for a rustic look.
Garnishes:
- Fresh herbs, such as parsley or chives, can be used as a garnish.
Pairings:
- Serve the cheese ball with crackers, sliced baguette, or vegetable crudités.
Suggested side dishes:
- A simple green salad or roasted vegetables would be a great side dish to serve with the cheese ball.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the cheese ball is too soft to roll in the pecans, chill it in the refrigerator for an additional 30 minutes.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to use clean hands and utensils when preparing the cheese ball to prevent contamination.
Food history:
- Giardiniera is a classic Italian condiment made with pickled vegetables, such as cauliflower, carrots, and peppers.
Flavor profiles:
- The Giardiniera Cheese Ball has a creamy and tangy flavor from the cream cheese and giardiniera, with a nutty crunch from the toasted pecans.
Serving suggestions:
- The Giardiniera Cheese Ball is a great appetizer for parties or gatherings, and can be served as a centerpiece on a cheese board.
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