ST. LOUIS – Nothing says the holidays are here quite like a table decked out with good cheer and a platter of cheese. From velvety brie tucked under cranberry chutney to aged cheddar cubes ready to spear with a toothpick, cheese has earned its spot as a true holiday classic.
“Cheese is one of those foods that brings people together,” said Jessica Kassel, nutrition educator and registered dietitian with St. Louis District Dairy Council. “It’s comforting, versatile, and it just feels special during the holidays.” But beyond its indulgent reputation, cheese also packs a surprising punch of nutrition.
“Cheese is often thought of as a treat, but it provides key nutrients we need for good health,” Kassel said. “It’s an excellent source of high-quality protein; calcium, which supports strong bones; and important vitamins, such as vitamin B12 and vitamin A.”
For many, cheese is more than a flavor enhancer for their favorite dishes, it is also nutritious and satisfying. The balance of protein and fat helps keep people full longer, which can make navigating the other holiday dishes on the buffet a little easier.
When paired with fruit, veggies or whole grain crackers, it makes for a balanced and festive addition to dishes and snacks during the holiday season. Hosts love cheese for its endless holiday possibilities. A simple wedge can be dressed up with a drizzle of honey and a sprinkle of nuts, baked into bubbly casseroles or set out on colorful cheese boards that double as table décor. It can star on appetizer platters, melt into cozy soups, or even elevate desserts when paired with honey or dark chocolate.
So, as the carols play and glasses clink, don’t forget to raise a toast to cheese whether it’s creamy, crumbly or melted. Cheese is the perfect addition to meals and will make the holidays a little brighter and healthier.
“After all, the holidays wouldn’t be complete without a little cheese,” Kassel said.
Visit www.stldairycouncil.org for nutritional handouts on cheese, the Pleasing Pairings with Cheese guide, recipes and more.
You may also contact Jessica Kassel at 314-835-9668 or jkassel@stldairycouncil.org
Follow St. Louis District Dairy Council on Facebook and Instagram at STLDairyCouncil. ### St. Louis District Dairy Council, a nonprofit nutrition education organization funded by local dairy farmers, serves 131 counties in central/southern Illinois and eastern Missouri.
Holiday Cheese Ball
Looking for a new cheesy recipe? Add some pizazz and a punch of cheesy nutrition to your holiday spread with this delicious cheese ball recipe!
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Ingredients
• 12 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 2 Tablespoons sour cream
• 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar, divided
• 1 Tablespoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon pepper
• 8 slices cooked bacon, minced, divided
• ¼ cup pecans, chopped, divided
• 4 green onions, chopped fine, divided
• ¼ cup chopped parsley, divided
Instructions
1. Place softened cream cheese, sour cream, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt and pepper into a medium-sized mixing bowl. Use a spatula to mix spices into the cream cheese and sour cream.
2. Add half the cheddar, half the bacon, half the chopped pecans, half the chopped onions, and half of the parsley to the bowl. Mix into the cream cheese, making sure the ingredients are evenly distributed. Use the spatula to press the cheese mixture into a loose ball. Set aside.
3. Place the remaining ingredients – bacon, cheddar, pecans, parsley and green onions – on a large piece of plastic wrap spread on the kitchen counter. Use your fingers to toss the ingredients so they are well mixed.
4. Place the cheese ball onto the plastic wrap. Roll the ball into the loose ingredient mixture, pressing the ingredients onto the surface with your hands while forming a more even looking cheese ball. (There will be extra loose ingredients. Save for another use, such as a topping for a green salad.)
5. Serve immediately or wrap tightly in plastic wrap and store in the refrigerator for up to four days.