California Walnut Cheese Ball
Description
Try this retro holiday appetizer with crunchy walnuts. Serve with assorted crackers for the ultimate wine complement.
Ingredients
- 3 cups cheddar cheese, white, old, shredded
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoon chives, fresh, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon port or sherry, optional
- 1/2-3/4 cup California walnut pieces, toasted
PREPARATION
- In food processor, combine all ingredients except walnuts. Pulse until mixture is smooth. Remove to medium bowl; cover and chill until slightly firm. Shape into 5-inch ball or roll into 7 x 2-inch log.
- Roll in toasted walnuts to coat evenly. Wrap in plastic wrap; chill until firm. Allow to warm at room temperature for 30 minutes before serving. May be kept in refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Toasted Walnuts
- Oven: Spread chopped walnuts evenly onto a baking sheet or in a shallow pan. Bake at 350º F for 5 to 7 minutes or until lightly browned. Stir several times for even toasting. Be sure to keep an eye on them, they burn easily. Cool before using.
- Microwave: In glass pie plate spread 3/4 cup walnuts in a single layer. Microwave on HIGH 5 to 6 minutes, stirring every 2 minutes. Cool before using.
- Skillet: In large, dry skillet over medium-high heat, heat walnuts until lightly toasted, about 1 to 2 minutes.
NUTRITION
- Calories: 253 cal
- Total Fat: 23 g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 60 mg
- Sodium: 236 mg
- Carbohydrates: 2 g
- Dietary Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 9 g