Tropical Ball of Cheese

Note: This recipe is especially for teens who must avoid gluten, a type of protein found in many foods.

Prep time: 30 minutes

Ingredients:

• 8-oz. package of light cream cheese, softened
• 4 oz. light tropical fruit cocktail, drained
• 1 c. walnuts, chopped

Directions:

1. Cut tropical fruit into smaller pieces.
2. Combine softened cream cheese, fruit, and ½ c. walnuts.
3. Chill well in refrigerator.
4. Mold into a ball and roll cheese in remaining ½ c. of nuts.

Serves: 11

Serving size: ¼ c.

Nutritional analysis (per serving):
122 calories
4 g protein
11 g fat
3 g sat. fat
4 g carbohydrate
1 g fiber
12 mg cholesterol
87 mg sodium
38 mg calcium
0.5 mg iron

Note: Nutritional analysis may vary depending on ingredient brands used.

Variations and suggestions:
Serve with carrots, celery, and/or gluten-free crackers. You can cut calories even further by using fat-free cream cheese.

Reviewed by: Allison Brinkley, RD, CNSC, LD/N
Date reviewed: July 2012