Description
A delicious and easy-to-make smoked salmon cheese ball perfect for entertaining or as a flavorful appetizer. This creamy cheese ball combines smoked salmon, cream cheese, herbs, and nuts for a perfect blend of savory flavors that pairs wonderfully with crackers or vegetable slices.
Ingredients
Cheese Ball Mixture
- 16 ounces cream cheese
- 12 ounces smoked salmon (or regular salmon plus 1 teaspoon liquid smoke)
- 2 tablespoons sour cream
- 1/2 cup finely diced red onion
- 1 1/2 teaspoons lemon pepper seasoning
Coating
- 1 cup pecans, roughly chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh herbs (chives, parsley, dill, etc.), chopped
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: Add the cream cheese, sour cream, smoked salmon, finely diced red onion, and lemon pepper seasoning into a mixing bowl.
- Mix Thoroughly: Use your hands or a stand mixer to blend all ingredients together until a uniform mixture forms.
- Shape the Cheese Ball: Using your hands, form the cheese mixture into a ball. If it feels too soft to shape, chill it for 30 minutes to firm up.
- Prepare Coating: On a plate or cutting board, mix the roughly chopped pecans and fresh chopped herbs in a single layer.
- Coat Cheese Ball: Roll the formed cheese ball over the pecan and herb mixture until completely coated on the outside.
- Serve or Chill: Serve immediately with crackers or vegetable slices, or refrigerate until desired. Chilling enhances the flavor, so making it a day ahead is recommended.
Notes
- If using regular salmon instead of smoked salmon, add 1 teaspoon of liquid smoke to replicate the smoky flavor.
- The cheese ball will firm up as it chills; if it is too soft to roll, chilling for 30 minutes is advised.
- For best flavor, prepare the cheese ball a day in advance and refrigerate.
- Serve with your favorite crackers, sliced veggies, or bread for an easy appetizer.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
