I love family recipes that have precious memories. My Nana passed away when I was two, so I cherish stories like this that Mia passed along to me. I’ve nibbled on these olive balls all of my life and at some point along the way added the martinis too. I think Nana would be thrilled to know her great granddaughters enjoy making her delicious olive balls. And, for the record the Littles have not had martinis yet.
From Mia:
Mother made these almost every time she entertained…and that was often. When Poppy built the walk-in bar and he became quite adapt at making a fabulous martini the olive balls made history among friends and family.
Mother introduced me to a martini at a restaurant/ bar in Dallas. I honestly don’t remember where, but my guess is the Melrose as she loved to stay there because of family history living in the Penthouse. In fact, remember that the first time you were ever in a swimming pool was at the Melrose Hotel’s pool?
Sorry, got lost in memories.
Here is THE recipe. Remember they freeze great!
Nana’s Olive Balls~~With or Without Martini’s
2 cups of grated sharp cheese
1/2 cup of soft BUTTER (remember butter wasn’t used often)
1 cup sifted flour
1/2 tsp of salt
1 tsp of paprika
48 stuffed green olives
Blend cheese with butter, add flour, salt, paprika
Take about a teaspoon of mixture, place into palm and put an olive in it.
15 minutes at 4oo degrees
These freeze and can be taken out as many as you want at a time.
Try these as an appetizer for your next get-together with family and friends. They will disappear in a flash!
I loved reading Mia’s story … and my mouth started watering when I read the ingredients. Who needs a party? — I think I’m going to make these for myself for an afternoon snack!
Those sound soooo good. I’ll definitely be making some soon!
There are some in my freezer that I’ve been hoarding since Christmas! Yes, they do freeze well.
They look delicious! I don’t think they’d make it to the freezer!! The littles look so cute, taking after their Mom in the kitchen.
My oh my girl, you have been busy this month!!! Everything looks fabulous…. Keep up the good work.
Have I ever told you about my grandmother mixing a pitcher of vodka martinis when I was deemed old enough?
You bring the olives and I’ll bring the ‘tinis —