Savory Spinach Balls: A Delicious and Nutritious Appetizer

Spinach balls are a delightful appetizer that’s both flavorful and nutritious. Packed with the goodness of spinach and seasoned with herbs and spices, these bite-sized treats are perfect for parties, potlucks, or anytime you need a tasty snack. In this recipe, we’ll show you how to make spinach balls that are sure to impress your guests. Let’s dive in!

Ingredients:

• 1 (10-ounce) package frozen spinach
• 3 eggs, large
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cups herb stuffing mix
• 1/2 cup butter, melted
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper

Instructions:

1. Thaw and Drain the Spinach:
   • Begin by thawing the frozen spinach according to the package instructions. Once thawed, place the spinach in a fine-mesh strainer and press down with the back of a spoon to remove excess moisture.
2. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.
3. Mix the Ingredients:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the thawed and drained spinach, beaten eggs, grated Parmesan cheese, herb stuffing mix, melted butter, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and ground black pepper. Mix until well combined.
4. Form the Spinach Balls:
   • Using a spoon or your hands, shape the spinach mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Place the formed balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them evenly apart.
5. Bake the Spinach Balls:
   • Transfer the baking sheet to the preheated oven and bake the spinach balls for 12-15 minutes, or until they are golden brown and firm to the touch.
6. Serve Warm:
   • Once baked, remove the spinach balls from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Serve the spinach balls warm as an appetizer or snack.

Cook Notes and Variations:

• Cheese Variation: For extra cheesy spinach balls, add shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese to the mixture before shaping into balls.
• Herb Substitutions: Feel free to customize the herb seasoning mix to your taste preferences. You can use dried basil, oregano, thyme, or rosemary for added flavor.
• Gluten-Free Option: To make gluten-free spinach balls, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers instead of herb stuffing mix.

Keto and Low-Carb Versions:

Keto Version:

• For a keto-friendly version of spinach balls, substitute almond flour or coconut flour for the herb stuffing mix. Use a low-carb binder such as almond meal or ground flaxseed instead of breadcrumbs.

Low-Carb Version:

• To reduce the carb content, omit the breadcrumbs altogether or use a combination of almond flour and grated Parmesan cheese as a binder. You can also reduce the amount of butter and use olive oil or avocado oil instead.

In conclusion, spinach balls are a versatile and delicious appetizer that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply craving a flavorful snack, these savory bites are sure to please. With their combination of spinach, herbs, and cheese, spinach balls are both nutritious and satisfying. Plus, with our variations for keto and low-carb diets, everyone can enjoy this tasty treat. Give this recipe a try and elevate your appetizer game with these delightful spinach balls