Goat cheese balls with green parsley

Goat cheese balls with fresh parsley – an elegant and delicious appetizer

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Refrigeration time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6

Goat cheese balls with fresh parsley are a sophisticated yet simple appetizer, perfect for any occasion. This dish combines the creamy texture of goat cheese with the freshness of parsley, creating an explosion of flavors that will delight your guests' taste buds. Additionally, the recipe is quick to prepare, making it ideal for moments when you need an elegant snack in no time.

A brief history of goat cheese appetizers

Goat cheese has a long-standing tradition in gastronomy, appreciated for its distinct flavor and versatility in dishes. The origins of this cheese are lost in the mists of time, but it has been used in various cultures as a staple ingredient on festive tables. Goat cheese balls with parsley have become popular due to their ease of preparation and appealing appearance, often served at parties, cocktail events, or gatherings with friends.

Necessary ingredients

- 300 g fresh goat cheese
- 2 tablespoons sour cream
- 1-2 tablespoons olive oil (to taste)
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley
- Ground black pepper (to taste)
- Optional: toasted bread or crackers for serving

Ingredient details

1. Goat cheese: Choose fresh, quality cheese with a creamy texture. Goat cheese has a slightly tangy and distinctive taste that pairs perfectly with the freshness of parsley.

2. Sour cream: Use sour cream with a fat content of 20-30% to achieve a velvety texture. This will help to homogenize the mixture.

3. Olive oil: Choose a quality extra virgin olive oil to add a rich flavor and subtle aromas to the appetizer.

4. Fresh parsley: Use fresh, well-washed parsley, finely chopped. This will not only add a note of freshness but also enhance the dish visually.

5. Ground black pepper: Add pepper to taste, being careful not to overpower the flavor of the goat cheese.

Preparation technique – Step by step

1. Step 1: Preparing the ingredients
Start by preparing all the ingredients. Finely chop the fresh parsley, ensuring it is well washed. This will be the key ingredient that gives a fresh and vibrant taste to the cheese balls.

2. Step 2: Mashing the cheese
In a medium bowl, place the goat cheese. Using a fork, mash the cheese until you achieve a smooth texture. If you prefer a less homogeneous texture, you can leave a few small pieces of cheese for a pleasant contrast.

3. Step 3: Adding the sour cream
Add the two tablespoons of sour cream to the mashed cheese. Mix well until the sour cream is completely incorporated. This step will make the mixture creamy and easy to shape.

4. Step 4: Incorporating the olive oil
Gradually add the olive oil to this mixture, continuing to stir. The oil will enrich the flavor and facilitate the formation of the balls. Adjust the amount according to your preferences.

5. Step 5: Seasoning
Add ground black pepper to taste. Taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Remember that goat cheese has a pronounced flavor, so don’t overdo it with the spices.

6. Step 6: Adding the parsley
Incorporate the chopped parsley into the cheese mixture, ensuring it is evenly distributed. This will give a colorful appearance and a fresh aroma to the cheese balls.

7. Step 7: Forming the balls
Using wet palms, form small balls from the cheese mixture. The ideal size is about one tablespoon, but you can adjust according to your preferences.

8. Step 8: Refrigeration
Place the formed balls on a plate and cover them with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for about 30 minutes so they firm up and the flavors meld together.

9. Step 9: Serving
Serve the cheese balls on slices of toasted bread or crackers for a perfect contrast of textures. You can also add a few fresh parsley leaves for decoration.

Serving suggestions and variations

These cheese balls are extremely versatile. If you want to personalize them, you can try the following variations:

- Adding nuts: Add finely chopped nuts to the mixture for an extra crunch.
- Alternative spices: Experiment with spices like cumin, paprika, or herbs such as oregano or basil.
- Drizzle with honey: Serve the cheese balls with a drizzle of honey for a sweet-salty contrast.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use another type of cheese?
Sure! You can replace goat cheese with cottage cheese or ricotta for a lighter version.

2. What drinks pair well with this appetizer?
Goat cheese balls pair wonderfully with a dry white wine or a pale beer. Additionally, a gin and tonic cocktail can perfectly complement the flavors.

3. Can I prepare the cheese balls a day in advance?
Yes, these balls can be prepared a day in advance and kept in the refrigerator. The flavors will intensify, and the taste will become even more delicious.

Nutritional benefits

Goat cheese is an excellent source of protein and calcium, while sour cream adds healthy fats. Parsley not only enhances the flavor but also brings a boost of vitamins and antioxidants, being a beneficial ingredient for overall health.

Calories

A serving of goat cheese balls (approximately 3 balls) contains about 150-200 calories, depending on the amount of sour cream and olive oil used.

Goat cheese balls with fresh parsley are a dish that should not be missing from your menu, being a perfect choice for any occasion, from parties to romantic dinners. With each bite, you will bring a touch of elegance to your meals. So, get ready to impress and enjoy every moment spent in the kitchen!