This Greek-style cheese ball is a perfect appetizer or party snack that combines the creamy and tangy flavors of feta cheese, cream cheese, and Greek yogurt. Coated with a mixture of herbs, garlic, and lemon zest, this cheese ball is bursting with Mediterranean flavors. It is easy to prepare and can be served with fresh vegetables, crackers, or pita chips. It is sure to be a hit at any gathering or party!
Ingredients
- Feta cheese - 8 ounces, crumbled
- Cream cheese - 8 ounces, softened
- Greek yogurt - 1/4 cup
- Garlic - 2 cloves, minced
- Lemon zest - 1 teaspoon
- Dried oregano - 1 teaspoon
- Dried thyme - 1/2 teaspoon
- Fresh parsley - 2 tablespoons, finely chopped
- Salt - 1/2 teaspoon
- Black pepper - 1/4 teaspoon
- Red pepper flakes - 1/4 teaspoon
- Chopped walnuts - 1/2 cup
Directions
- In a mixing bowl, combine the crumbled feta cheese, softened cream cheese, Greek yogurt, minced garlic, lemon zest, dried oregano, dried thyme, fresh parsley, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
- Use a fork or an electric mixer to thoroughly mix all the ingredients until well combined.
- Place the mixture in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to firm it up slightly.
- Meanwhile, spread the chopped walnuts on a plate or shallow dish.
- After the cheese mixture has chilled, take it out of the refrigerator and shape it into a ball using your hands.
- Roll the cheese ball in the chopped walnuts, pressing gently to ensure the nuts adhere to the surface of the cheese ball.
- Once fully coated, place the cheese ball on a serving platter and cover it with plastic wrap.
- Refrigerate for at least 1 hour or until ready to serve, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Serve the Greek-style cheese ball with fresh vegetables, crackers, or pita chips, and enjoy!
Interesting Facts
The Greek-style cheese ball can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator, making it a convenient make-ahead appetizer for parties.
Feta cheese, a key ingredient in this recipe, is a staple in Greek cuisine and is known for its tangy and salty flavor.
The combination of feta cheese, cream cheese, and Greek yogurt creates a creamy and velvety texture for the cheese ball.
This cheese ball can be easily customized by adding additional herbs or spices such as dill, basil, or crushed red pepper flakes to suit your taste.