Shrimp Cheese Ball or Spread
 

Shrimp Cheese SpeadThis is my mother's favorite recipe to bring to our Christmas Eve celebration every year. It is easy to make and a favorite of our family. This is also excellent as a sandwich spread.

Check out my Appetizer Recipes for more great cooking ideas.

Don't forget to check out my Holiday Open House Menu which includes this popular and delicious Shrimp Cheese Ball.

Shrimp Cheese Ball or Spread

2 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese (regular, low fat, and/or non fat cream cheese), room temperature
6-ounces small cooked shrimp*
1 (6-ounce) can black olives, drained and chopped
Salt to taste
Fresh-squeezed lemon juice to taste**
3 small green onions, finely chopped
1/4 cup chopped nuts
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley leaves
Assorted crackers

* If using larger shrimp, cut into small pieces.

** If making a spread, use up to 3 tablespoons lemon juice.

In a large bowl, mash cream cheese with a fork. Add shrimp, black olives, salt, lemon juice, and green onions; stir until well blended. With your hands, form cheese mixture into a large ball.

Cheese Ball - In a small bowl, combine nuts and parsley; roll cheese ball in nut mixture to coat completely. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate until ready to serve. Serve with assorted crackers.

Cheese Spread - Add chopped nuts and parsley to the cream cheese mixture; stir until combined.

Yields 1 large cheese ball or approximately 1 1/2 cup spread.