Spinach and artichoke feta balls are flavorful and savory appetizers or snacks that combine spinach, artichokes, and feta cheese. These bite-sized treats are perfect for parties or as a delicious snack. Here’s how to make them:
Ingredients:
- 1 (10-ounce) package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
- 1 (14-ounce) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
- 1 1/2 cups crumbled feta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Bread crumbs (for coating)
- Olive oil (for frying)
- Marinara sauce (for dipping, optional)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Spinach and Artichoke Mixture:
- Thaw the frozen chopped spinach and drain it well to remove excess moisture. You can use a clean kitchen towel or paper towels to press out the water.
- Chop the Artichoke Hearts:
- Drain the canned artichoke hearts and chop them into small pieces.
- Mix the Ingredients:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped spinach, chopped artichoke hearts, crumbled feta cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, mayonnaise, minced garlic, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything together until well combined.
- Form the Balls:
- Take spoonfuls of the mixture and roll them into small balls, about the size of a walnut.
- Coat with Bread Crumbs:
- Roll each spinach and artichoke feta ball in bread crumbs to coat them evenly. This will help give them a crispy texture when frying.
- Heat the Olive Oil:
- In a skillet, heat enough olive oil to cover the bottom of the pan over medium-high heat.
- Fry the Balls:
- Carefully place the coated balls in the hot oil and fry them until they are golden brown and crispy on all sides, turning as needed. This should take about 2-3 minutes per side. Be cautious when frying to avoid overcrowding the pan.
- Drain and Serve:
- Use a slotted spoon to remove the spinach and artichoke feta balls from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
- Serve:
- Serve the spinach and artichoke feta balls hot as an appetizer or snack. You can also serve them with marinara sauce for dipping, if desired.
These spinach and artichoke feta balls are a crowd-pleasing appetizer with a delightful combination of flavors and textures. They are best enjoyed when hot and crispy, making them a perfect addition to your party or gathering menu.