RETETA DE BILUTE DE BRANZA APERITIV

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These cheese balls are versatile and customizable—you can roll them in sesame seeds, poppy seeds, paprika, or herbs for different flavors and colors. They look impressive on a serving platter, but they require no cooking and just a few minutes of preparation. It’s the kind of recipe that tastes great, looks festive, and makes entertaining effortless.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• telemea cheese (or feta)

• cottage cheese

• Italian herbs

• black pepper

• sesame seeds

• poppy seeds

• paprika

• nigella seeds (black cumin)

Directions

1. In a bowl, mix together telemea cheese and cottage cheese until well combined.

2. Season with Italian herbs and black pepper to taste.

3. Shape the mixture into small balls, about the size of a walnut.

4. Roll each cheese ball in your choice of coating: sesame seeds, poppy seeds, paprika, or nigella seeds.

5. Arrange on a serving platter and refrigerate until ready to serve.

Servings and timing

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Total Time: 10 minutes

• Servings: 25 cheese balls

Variations

• Add fresh herbs like parsley, dill, or chives to the cheese mixture for extra freshness.

• Mix in finely chopped nuts such as walnuts or pistachios for crunch.

• Coat some cheese balls in crushed crackers or bread crumbs for a different texture.

• Add a bit of garlic powder or chili flakes for a spicy version.

• Use flavored cream cheese instead of cottage cheese for a different twist.

Storage/Reheating

Store cheese balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Since they are served cold, there’s no need to reheat them. For best results, prepare them fresh on the day of serving or the night before.

FAQs

Can I make cheese balls in advance?

Yes, you can make them the day before and keep them refrigerated until serving.

Can I freeze cheese balls?

It’s not recommended, as the texture of the cheese may change after freezing.

What type of cheese can I use instead of telemea?

You can use feta, cream cheese, or any crumbly, salty cheese.

Can I make them spicier?

Yes, roll them in chili powder or add chili flakes to the cheese mixture.

How do I stop the cheese balls from sticking to my hands?

Wet your hands slightly with water before shaping the balls.

Can I serve them with something else?

Yes, they pair well with crackers, fresh vegetables, or breadsticks.

Are these suitable for kids?

Yes, just avoid spicy coatings and stick with sesame, poppy seeds, or herbs.

Can I use flavored cheese spreads?

Yes, flavored cream cheese or cheese spreads work well as a base.

How do I make them look more festive?

Coat them in different toppings and arrange in colorful patterns on the serving tray.

Can I make them larger instead of bite-sized?

Yes, you can make medium-sized balls and serve them with small skewers or toothpicks.

Conclusion

Cheese balls are a simple yet elegant appetizer that comes together in minutes. With endless options for coatings and flavors, they are versatile enough to suit any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party or just want a quick snack, these bite-sized delights will always impress your guests.