If you are craving a snack that’s bursting with flavor and crunch, the Cheese Stuffed Fried Olives Appetizer Recipe is exactly what you need. Picture plump, briny green olives filled with melty, creamy cheese, encased in a perfectly crispy golden crust. This dish is a delightful combination of textures and a party-pleaser that’s surprisingly simple to whip up. Whether you’re entertaining friends or just treating yourself, this appetizer brings irresistible charm to any occasion.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering a handful of straightforward ingredients is all it takes to create this incredible dish. Each element plays its role beautifully — from the briny olives to the delicate cheese filling, and the crispy coating that gives every bite a satisfyingly crunchy finish.
- 20 large pitted green olives: The star ingredient, offering a juicy, slightly tart bite that pairs perfectly with cheese.
- 1/2 cup mozzarella or cream cheese (softened): Choose mozzarella for stretchiness or cream cheese for rich creaminess inside the olives.
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour: Helps create a smooth batter for a crispy coating.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors without overpowering the olives.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle touch of warmth and depth.
- 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano or paprika (optional): Brings a hint of herbaceous or smoky flavor to make things extra interesting.
- 1 large egg (beaten): Binds the batter so it clings perfectly to each olive.
- 3/4 cup breadcrumbs: Creates that satisfying crunch on the exterior for textural delight.
- Oil for frying (neutral oil with high smoke point, about 2 cups): Essential for achieving a golden, crispy finish without burning.
How to Make Cheese Stuffed Fried Olives Appetizer Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Olives
Start by patting your large pitted green olives dry with paper towels. This step is crucial because it helps the batter stick better during frying. Then, carefully make a small slit in each olive to create a little pocket for your creamy cheese.
Step 2: Stuff with Cheese
Using a small spoon or a piping bag, gently fill each olive with your choice of softened cheese. Be sure not to overstuff, as you want the cheese to bulge slightly without bursting out during frying. This cheesy center is what makes this appetizer absolutely irresistible.
Step 3: Make the Batter
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, salt, black pepper, and your optional herbs like oregano or paprika. Add the beaten egg and mix everything until a smooth, thick batter forms. This consistency will help coat the olives evenly and hold the breadcrumbs well.
Step 4: Coat the Olives
Dip each stuffed olive into the batter, making sure it’s fully covered with a smooth layer. Immediately roll the coated olive in breadcrumbs to create a crunchy, golden shell when fried. This dual coating gives the perfect crispiness that contrasts with the soft cheese inside.
Step 5: Fry to Golden Perfection
Heat about 2 cups of neutral oil in a deep pan or fryer to 350-375°F (medium-high heat). Fry the olives in small batches for 2 to 3 minutes until their coating turns beautifully golden and crispy. Once cooked, drain them on paper towels to remove any excess oil before serving.
How to Serve Cheese Stuffed Fried Olives Appetizer Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or a pinch of smoked paprika over the fried olives to add a pop of color and subtle flavor boost. A drizzle of lemon-infused olive oil can brighten the dish and complement the olives wonderfully.
Side Dishes
This appetizer pairs wonderfully with tangy marinara or a cool garlic aioli dip. You can also serve it alongside a fresh green salad or crusty bread to soak up the delicious flavors and balance the richness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, skewer several fried olives on a cocktail stick alongside cubes of cured meats and cherry tomatoes to create bite-sized finger food. Another idea is to serve them in small ramekins on a platter with assorted olives and cheeses for a stunning Mediterranean-inspired appetizer board.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftover fried olives, let them cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. Store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days to keep them as fresh and crispy as possible.
Freezing
You can freeze stuffed, unbattered olives before frying. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag and keep for up to one month. Fry directly from frozen for best results.
Reheating
To reheat and retain that delicious crunch, pop the olives in a preheated oven or air fryer at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes. Avoid microwaving to prevent them from getting soggy.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cheese besides mozzarella or cream cheese?
Absolutely! Cheeses like feta, goat cheese, or even a sharp cheddar can be delightful inside the olives, each bringing its unique flavor and texture to the appetizer.
Is it possible to bake these instead of frying?
Yes, baking is a healthier option. Preheat your oven to 400°F and bake them on a greased sheet for about 15-20 minutes or until golden and crispy, flipping halfway through for even browning.
What’s the best type of olive for this recipe?
Large green olives that are pitted and firm work best, as they hold the cheese well and have a mild tartness that complements the richness of the cheese.
Can I prepare these vegan-friendly?
Definitely! Use vegan cheese and replace the egg with a flaxseed egg or aquafaba in the batter. Just be mindful that texture and flavor may vary slightly.
How long does it take to make this appetizer?
From start to finish, including frying, this Cheese Stuffed Fried Olives Appetizer Recipe typically takes about 20 minutes, making it a quick yet impressive snack to prepare.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly magical about the combination of crispy, cheesy, and salty in this Cheese Stuffed Fried Olives Appetizer Recipe. It’s a snack that will charm every guest and satisfy any craving with its perfect balance of textures and flavors. Give it a try at your next gathering or whenever your taste buds need a little joy — you won’t regret it!
Print
Cheese Stuffed Fried Olives Appetizer Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 20 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Description
Crispy and flavorful Cheese Stuffed Fried Olives are a perfect appetizer that combines the briny taste of green olives with creamy mozzarella or cream cheese, all encased in a crunchy breadcrumb coating. Ready in just 20 minutes, this easy-to-make snack is ideal for parties, gatherings, or a delicious bite anytime.
Ingredients
Olives and Cheese
- 20 large pitted green olives
- 1/2 cup mozzarella or cream cheese (softened)
Batter
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano or paprika (optional)
- 1 large egg (beaten)
Coating and Frying
- 3/4 cup breadcrumbs
- Oil for frying (neutral oil with high smoke point, about 2 cups)
Instructions
- Prepare the Olives: Pat the pitted green olives dry thoroughly with paper towels to ensure the batter sticks well. Make a small slit carefully in each olive to create a cavity for stuffing without breaking it apart.
- Stuff with Cheese: Using a small spoon or piping bag, gently fill each olive with the softened mozzarella or cream cheese until it slightly bulges, taking care not to overfill and burst the olive.
- Make the Batter: In a mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, salt, black pepper, and optional dried oregano or paprika. Whisk in the beaten egg until you achieve a smooth, thick batter capable of evenly coating the olives.
- Coat the Olives: Dip each cheese-stuffed olive into the batter, making sure it is fully covered. Then roll the batter-coated olive in breadcrumbs to form a crunchy outer shell.
- Fry to Golden Perfection: Heat approximately 2 cups of neutral oil with a high smoke point in a deep pan or fryer to medium-high heat, around 350-375°F (175-190°C). Fry the olives in small batches for 2-3 minutes, or until the coating is crispy and golden brown. Remove and drain on paper towels to absorb excess oil before serving.
Notes
- Ensure olives are well dried before battering to help the coating adhere better.
- Use softened cheese to make stuffing easier and create a creamy center.
- Maintain oil temperature between 350-375°F to prevent olives from absorbing too much oil.
- Serve warm for the best flavor and texture.
- Optional herbs like oregano or paprika add extra flavor but can be omitted if preferred.
