Baked Cheese Olives are a scrumptious and unique appetizer that combines the salty, briny flavor of olives with the rich, creamy taste of cheese. This delightful treat is perfect for any gathering, whether a casual get-together with friends or a more formal event. The origins of this dish can be traced back to the combination of Mediterranean ingredients, where olives and cheese have been paired together for centuries. Not only do they taste amazing, but they also offer a visually appealing addition to any appetizer spread.
Ingredients
To create these mouthwatering Baked Cheese Olives, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, grated
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for a spicy kick)
- 1 jar (about 6 ounces) pitted green olives, drained and patted dry
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Which Cheese Goes Best with Olives?
When pairing cheese with olives, sharp cheddar cheese is often a popular choice due to its strong flavor, which complements the briny taste of olives. Other great options include blue cheese, feta, and gouda, which can also add depth and complexity to the flavor profile of the dish.
Instructions
Creating these delicious Baked Cheese Olives is easy and fun. Follow these step-by-step instructions:
Preparation
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high temperature will ensure that the cheese mixture crisps up nicely around the olives.
- Prepare the Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
Mixing the Dough
- Mix the Ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the flour, softened butter, grated cheddar cheese, paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), and salt. Mix the ingredients until a dough forms. The dough should be firm enough to wrap around the olives but soft enough to mold easily.
- Wrap the Olives: Take a small portion of the dough and flatten it in your palm. Place a pitted olive in the center and wrap the dough around it, ensuring the olive is fully covered. Repeat this process until all the olives are wrapped.
Baking
- Arrange on the Baking Sheet: Place the wrapped olives on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them evenly to allow for even cooking.
- Bake the Cheese Olives: Bake the olives in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese dough is golden brown and crisp.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the baked cheese olives from the oven and allow them to cool slightly before serving. They can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature.
Tips and Variations
Why Do Olives and Cheese Go Together?
Olives and cheese pair well together because of their complementary flavors. The briny, salty taste of olives enhances the rich, creamy flavor of cheese, creating a perfect balance that is both satisfying and delicious.
Tips for Perfect Baked Cheese Olives
- Can You Put Olives on a Cheese Board? Yes, olives are a fantastic addition to any cheese board. They add a burst of flavor and variety to the selection of cheeses.
- How Long Do Homemade Blue Cheese Olives Last? Homemade blue cheese olives can last up to one week when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Ensure they are completely cooled before storing to maintain their texture and flavor.
Variations
- Olive Cheese Balls Old English: For a variation using Old English cheese spread, substitute the cheddar cheese with the Old English spread for a different flavor profile.
- Cheese Olives Recipe: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as gouda or feta, to find your favorite combination.
- Olive Puffs Recipe: Create olive puffs by wrapping olives in puff pastry instead of the cheese dough for a flakier texture.
- Olive Cheese Balls Recipe: Add chopped herbs, such as rosemary or thyme, to the cheese dough for an aromatic twist.
Nutritional Information
Here’s the basic nutritional information for a serving of Baked Cheese Olives (per serving, based on four servings):
- Calories: 150
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 250mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 10g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 0g
- Protein: 5g
Baked Cheese Olives are a delightful appetizer that combines the irresistible flavors of cheese and olives. This easy-to-make recipe will impress your guests and become a favorite at any gathering. Whether you stick to the classic version or experiment with different cheeses and herbs, the possibilities are endless. Give this recipe a try, and don’t forget to share your experience in the comments below.