greatest party snacks ever

 

Ingredients:

For the Cheese Balls:

6 oz cream cheese, softened

4 oz feta cheese, crumbled (use a mild feta for creamier texture)

2 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt (optional, for extra creaminess)

2 tablespoons finely chopped Kalamata olives (pitted)

2 tablespoons finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes (in olive oil, drained)

1 small garlic clove, minced

1 teaspoon dried oregano

2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh basil or parsley

Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

For the Coating:

½ cup panko breadcrumbs (or a mix of whole wheat breadcrumbs and finely ground almonds for extra Mediterranean flair)

Zest of 1 lemon

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1-2 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil (to help the coating stick)

Instructions:

Prepare the Cheese Mixture:

In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, crumbled feta, and Greek yogurt (if using).

Stir in the chopped Kalamata olives, sun-dried tomatoes, minced garlic, dried oregano, and fresh basil (or parsley).

Season lightly with black pepper. (Taste and adjust if necessary—feta is salty already, so additional salt may not be needed.)

Mix thoroughly until the ingredients are well incorporated.

Form the Cheese Balls:

Using a small spoon or your hands, scoop about 1 tablespoon of the mixture and gently roll it between your palms to form a smooth, bite-sized ball.

Place the cheese balls on a parchment-lined plate or tray.

If the mixture feels too soft to shape, chill it in the refrigerator for about 20–30 minutes to firm up.

Prepare the Coating:

In a shallow bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, lemon zest, and dried oregano.

Drizzle with the extra-virgin olive oil and stir until the mixture is evenly moistened. The olive oil helps the crumbs adhere to the cheese balls.

Coat the Cheese Balls:

Roll each chilled cheese ball in the breadcrumb mixture until completely coated.

For an extra crunchy exterior, you can lightly press the coating onto the cheese ball.

Serve:

Arrange the Mediterranean cheese ball bites on a serving platter.

Garnish with a few extra chopped herbs or a drizzle of olive oil if desired.

Enjoy them as an appetizer or a party snack that perfectly captures bright, Mediterranean flavors!

These bites are a fresh, lighter alternative to traditional cheese ball snacks—bursting with Mediterranean flavors like olives, sun-dried tomatoes, lemon, and herbs. They’re sure to be a hit at your next gathering!