Pineapple Cheeseball
Pineapple Cheeseball Recipe - Caribbean Cuisine
Introduction
This Pineapple Cheeseball recipe is a delicious and easy-to-make appetizer that is perfect for any gathering or party. The combination of cream cheese, pineapple, and seasonings creates a flavorful and creamy cheeseball that is sure to be a hit with your guests.
History
The Pineapple Cheeseball recipe has been a popular party appetizer for many years. It is believed to have originated in the United States, where it quickly became a favorite at social gatherings and holiday parties. The sweet and savory flavors of the pineapple and cream cheese blend perfectly together, making it a crowd-pleasing dish.
Ingredients
- 2 (8 oz) packages of softened cream cheese
- 1 (4 oz) can of drained crushed pineapple
- 2 tbsp of finely chopped green peppers
- 1 tbsp of finely chopped onions
- 1 tsp of Lowery seasoning salt
- chopped nuts
How to prepare
- Mix all the ingredients thoroughly.
- Chill the mixture for approximately 20 minutes.
- Next, shape the mixture into 2 balls and coat them with chopped nuts before serving.
Variations
- Add cooked and crumbled bacon for a smoky flavor.
- Mix in chopped ham or cooked shrimp for added protein.
- Use different types of nuts for coating, such as pecans or almonds.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Make sure to thoroughly drain the crushed pineapple before adding it to the cream cheese mixture to prevent the cheeseball from becoming too watery.
- For added flavor, you can mix in additional seasonings such as garlic powder, onion powder, or Worcestershire sauce.
- To make the cheeseball easier to shape, chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 20 minutes before forming it into balls.
- Coating the cheeseballs with chopped nuts adds a crunchy texture and nutty flavor to the dish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Pineapple Cheeseball with crackers, sliced baguette, or vegetable sticks for dipping.
Cooking Techniques
Soften the cream cheese at room temperature before mixing to ensure a smooth and creamy texture.
- Drain the crushed pineapple well to prevent the cheeseball from becoming too watery.
- Chill the mixture before shaping into balls to make it easier to handle.
Ingredient Substitutions
Use Greek yogurt or vegan cream cheese as a dairy-free alternative.
- Substitute the green peppers with red peppers or jalapenos for a different flavor profile.
- Use dried herbs or spices in place of the Lowery seasoning salt.
Make Ahead Tips
You can prepare the Pineapple Cheeseball mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before shaping into balls and serving.
Presentation Ideas
Serve the Pineapple Cheeseball on a decorative platter garnished with fresh herbs or additional chopped nuts for a beautiful presentation.
Pairing Recommendations
Pair the Pineapple Cheeseball with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, or a sparkling wine like Prosecco.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store any leftover Pineapple Cheeseball in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Allow it to come to room temperature before serving.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Each serving of Pineapple Cheeseball contains approximately 150 calories.
Carbohydrates
Each serving of Pineapple Cheeseball contains approximately 4 grams of carbohydrates.
Fats
Each serving of Pineapple Cheeseball contains approximately 12 grams of fat.
Proteins
Each serving of Pineapple Cheeseball contains approximately 4 grams of protein.
Vitamins and minerals
Pineapple Cheeseball is a good source of vitamin C, calcium, and iron.
Alergens
Pineapple Cheeseball contains dairy (cream cheese) and nuts.
Summary
Pineapple Cheeseball is a creamy and flavorful appetizer that is relatively low in carbohydrates and protein, but higher in fats. It is a good source of vitamin C, calcium, and iron.
Summary
Pineapple Cheeseball is a classic party appetizer that is easy to make and full of flavor. With a creamy texture and a hint of sweetness from the pineapple, it is sure to be a crowd favorite at your next gathering.
How did I get this recipe?
I recall the feeling of curiosity that overcame me when I found this recipe for Pineapple Cheeseball. It was many years ago, back when I was just a young girl learning the ways of the kitchen from my own grandmother. She was a masterful cook, known throughout the neighborhood for her delicious meals and decadent desserts. I would spend hours by her side, watching intently as she mixed and stirred, tasting and adjusting until each dish was absolutely perfect.
One day, while rummaging through her old recipe box, I stumbled upon a faded index card with the words "Pineapple Cheeseball" scrawled across the top. Intrigued, I asked my grandmother about it, and she smiled knowingly before launching into a tale of how she had learned to make the dish many years ago from a dear friend.
According to my grandmother, the recipe for Pineapple Cheeseball had been passed down through generations of women in her friend's family. It was a cherished tradition, reserved for special occasions and gatherings. The combination of tangy pineapple and creamy cheese was said to be a match made in culinary heaven, a true crowd-pleaser that never failed to impress.
Eager to try my hand at making the Pineapple Cheeseball, I asked my grandmother to teach me the recipe. With a twinkle in her eye, she agreed, and together we set to work gathering the necessary ingredients: cream cheese, crushed pineapple, green pepper, onion, and pecans. As we measured and mixed, I listened intently to my grandmother's instructions, committing each step to memory.
The process was simple yet satisfying. We combined the cream cheese with the pineapple, pepper, and onion, shaping the mixture into a ball before rolling it in the chopped pecans. The finished product was a sight to behold, a golden orb of cheesy goodness that begged to be sampled.
As we sat down to enjoy our creation, my grandmother regaled me with stories of her own culinary adventures. She spoke of the time she had mastered the art of baking bread from scratch, the joy of canning fresh fruits and vegetables from the garden, and the satisfaction of creating a meal that brought smiles to the faces of her loved ones.
I listened, spellbound, as she shared her wisdom and experience, passing down not just a recipe but a legacy of love and tradition. It was in that moment that I realized the true power of cooking - it wasn't just about feeding the body, but nourishing the soul.
From that day on, the Pineapple Cheeseball became a staple in my own repertoire of recipes. I made it for family gatherings, potlucks, and impromptu dinner parties, delighting in the smiles and compliments it never failed to elicit. Each time I prepared it, I felt a connection to my grandmother and the generations of women who had come before me, all united by a love of good food and good company.
Now, as I stand in my own kitchen, preparing the Pineapple Cheeseball for yet another gathering, I can't help but feel a sense of gratitude for the gift of cooking that was passed down to me. The recipe may have originated from a friend of a friend, but the memories and traditions that surround it are uniquely my own, a part of my personal culinary journey that I will cherish forever.
As I take a bite of the creamy, tangy goodness, I savor not just the flavors but the stories and experiences that have brought me to this moment. And as I share the Pineapple Cheeseball with my loved ones, I know that I am passing on more than just a recipe - I am passing on a piece of myself, a piece of my grandmother, and a piece of the love that binds us all together.
Categories
| Caribbean Appetizers | Caribbean Recipes | Cheese Ball Recipes | Cream Cheese Recipes | Green Bell Pepper Recipes | Nut Recipes | Pineapple Recipes |