Nutty Mini-Cheese Ball Bites

I realize from the title of this blog post / recipe, the last thing you're probably thinking of is a healthy snack that's also delicious and fun to make. I have come through for you lovely blog followers. You're going to love this one! The Summer Season is in full swing with pool parties, picnics in the park, family gatherings, backyard BBQs, and friends dropping by for a visit.

This recipe will include some ingredients you may not be that familiar with, so a huge thank you to our friends at nuts.com. By simply clicking on the link, you can order the nuts / seeds / berries to be delivered straight to your door.

Please take a few minutes to follow the links in the recipe to learn more about these nutritional powerhouses that are amazingly healthy and should be a part of all of our diets.

If the kids are playing in the pool and parents are visiting and snacking while keeping a watchful eye on the kiddos, this is a great nibble to serve!

Hosting a BBQ, and you want something to keep your guests happy while the main course is on the grill, these Nutty Mini-Cheese Balls are sure to please!

Now for the recipe!  And remember to click on the links to learn about the nutritional value of the highlighted ingredients. 

8 oz. cream cheese, softened

4 oz. goat cheese, softened

1/4 t. paprika

1/4 t. granulated garlic

1/4 t. onion powder

2 T. Chia Seeds

2 T. finely chopped Pepitas

1 T. finely chopped Hazelnuts

1 T. finely chopped Pistachios

2 T. finely chopped Goji Berries

Combine all the ingredients in a medium bowl. Refrigerate about 30 minutes.

Using a 1 1/2 inch scoop (you can use smaller), divide the cheese ball mixture into 12 - 14 balls and place on a plate. Back into the refrigerator they go for another 30 minutes or so. You want them to be chilled enough to handle without being sticky.

Now here's where YOUR creativity comes into play. Using any or all of the nuts / seeds / berries listed above, finely chop a few more tablespoons and spread them out into a shallow dish. I used Chia seeds, Goji Berries, and Pepitas. You can mix and match, roll them separately, keep the Pepitas whole or finely chopped, or mix everything together and roll them for a great texture and taste experience!

Carefully roll the mini-cheese balls in the mixture to completely cover the cheese balls. Place on a serving tray and refrigerate until ready to serve.

For even more ideas for fillings or toppings, visit nuts.com.