Olive Rice Balls
Olive Rice Balls Recipe - Delicious Appetizer with Cheddar and Ripe Olives
Introduction
Olive Rice Balls are a delicious and savory appetizer or side dish that are perfect for any occasion. These flavorful rice balls are packed with cheese, olives, and green onions, making them a tasty treat for any meal.
History
Olive Rice Balls have roots in Mediterranean cuisine, where olives are a staple ingredient in many dishes. The combination of rice, cheese, and olives creates a unique and flavorful dish that is sure to please any palate.
Ingredients
- 1.5 cups cooked rice
- 0.5 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 0.25 cup sliced green onions
- 0.25 cup finely chopped ripe olives
- 0.25 cup Italian-style bread crumbs
- 0.25 tsp salt
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- 0.13 tsp hot pepper sauce
- paprika for garnish
How to prepare
- In a large mixing bowl, combine rice, Cheddar cheese, onions, olives, bread crumbs, salt, egg, lemon juice, and pepper sauce. Shape the mixture into 1-inch balls and place them on a well-greased baking sheet. Bake at 375°F (191°C) for 10 to 15 minutes. Serve warm.
Variations
- Add diced tomatoes or roasted red peppers for a pop of color and flavor.
- Use different types of cheese, such as feta or mozzarella, for a unique twist.
- Experiment with different herbs and spices, such as basil or oregano, to customize the flavor profile.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Make sure to cook the rice until it is tender but not mushy, as you want the rice balls to hold their shape.
- Be sure to mix the ingredients thoroughly to ensure that the flavors are evenly distributed throughout the rice mixture.
- If the mixture is too dry, you can add a little more beaten egg to help bind everything together.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Olive Rice Balls as an appetizer with a side of marinara sauce for dipping, or as a side dish alongside grilled chicken or fish.
Cooking Techniques
Baking the rice balls in the oven ensures that they are cooked through and have a crispy exterior.
Ingredient Substitutions
Use brown rice or quinoa instead of white rice for a healthier alternative.
- Substitute black olives for green olives for a different flavor profile.
- Use panko breadcrumbs instead of Italian-style breadcrumbs for a lighter and crispier texture.
Make Ahead Tips
You can prepare the rice mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you are ready to bake the rice balls.
Presentation Ideas
Serve Olive Rice Balls on a platter garnished with fresh herbs and a sprinkle of paprika for a colorful and appetizing presentation.
Pairing Recommendations
Pair Olive Rice Balls with a crisp white wine or a light beer for a refreshing and satisfying meal.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store any leftover Olive Rice Balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (177°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Each serving of Olive Rice Balls contains approximately 200 calories.
Carbohydrates
Each serving of Olive Rice Balls contains approximately 20 grams of carbohydrates.
Fats
Each serving of Olive Rice Balls contains approximately 8 grams of fat.
Proteins
Each serving of Olive Rice Balls contains approximately 6 grams of protein.
Vitamins and minerals
Olive Rice Balls are a good source of calcium, vitamin C, and iron.
Alergens
Olive Rice Balls contain dairy (cheese) and eggs.
Summary
Olive Rice Balls are a flavorful and satisfying dish that is relatively low in calories and high in protein.
Summary
Olive Rice Balls are a delicious and savory dish that is perfect for any occasion. Packed with cheese, olives, and green onions, these flavorful rice balls are sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Enjoy!
How did I get this recipe?
I recall the feeling of curiosity that overcame me when I found this recipe for Olive Rice Balls tucked away in an old cookbook that once belonged to my great-grandmother. As I carefully read through the ingredients and instructions, I couldn't help but wonder about the origins of this unique dish. It was unlike anything I had ever seen before, and I was determined to unravel its mystery.
Growing up, I spent countless hours watching my grandmother cook in the kitchen. She was a master at creating delicious meals from scratch, using only the freshest ingredients and her own intuition. I learned so much from her, and it was during one of these cooking sessions that I first heard about the Olive Rice Balls.
One rainy afternoon, as we were preparing dinner together, my grandmother mentioned that she once came across a recipe for Olive Rice Balls in an old cookbook. She explained that it was a traditional dish from her hometown in Italy, where it was often served as a side dish or appetizer during special occasions. The thought of these savory rice balls filled with olives and herbs intrigued me, and I begged her to teach me how to make them.
With a twinkle in her eye, my grandmother agreed to pass down the recipe to me. She handed me the weathered cookbook and pointed to the page that contained the instructions for the Olive Rice Balls. As I read through the recipe, she shared stories of her own childhood in Italy, where her family would gather around the dinner table to enjoy these delicious treats.
I carefully followed each step of the recipe, measuring out the rice, olives, and herbs with precision. My grandmother stood by my side, offering guidance and encouragement as I shaped the mixture into small balls and rolled them in breadcrumbs. The aroma of the olive oil sizzling in the pan filled the kitchen, evoking memories of Italy and simpler times.
As the Olive Rice Balls cooked to perfection, I couldn't wait to taste the fruits of my labor. My grandmother and I sat down at the table, savoring each bite of the crispy, flavorful rice balls. The combination of briny olives, fragrant herbs, and tender rice was a revelation, and I knew that this recipe would become a beloved tradition in my own family.
Over the years, I have shared the recipe for Olive Rice Balls with friends and loved ones, passing down the culinary secrets that were entrusted to me by my grandmother. Each time I make this dish, I am transported back to that rainy afternoon in the kitchen, where I first discovered the magic of cooking and the power of tradition.
As I look back on my life, I am grateful for the lessons I learned from my grandmother and the recipes that have been passed down through generations. The Olive Rice Balls serve as a reminder of the love and connection that food can bring, uniting us in a shared appreciation for delicious meals and cherished memories. And as I continue to cook and share these recipes with others, I am reminded of the enduring legacy of my grandmother's kitchen and the joy that comes from creating something truly special.
Categories
| Appetizer Recipes | Black Olive Recipes | Cheddar Recipes | Chile Pepper Recipes | Rice Recipes | Snack Recipes |