It’s that time of year….no extra time for anything. Between farm chores, work, holiday shopping and parties, we don’t have much time to relax and truly enjoy the Christmas holiday.

Every year we make a promise to ourselves that we will slow down and enjoy what is important – family and friends.  And this year, we are sticking to it.

As much as I enjoy to cook, there are times when quick and easy recipes are necessary. That doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice taste.

Every classic holiday party has a cheese ball representation, and most only takes minutes to prepare.

I was lucky enough to have found this recipe years ago, and every year since, I make an extra one to freeze for that unexpected guest that shows up, or that last minute party that gets organized – usually on the same day that you have planned to shop or finish up your wrapping.

So do yourself a favor and make this recipe now and freeze it for later use.  Who wants to spend extra time at the grocery store or in the kitchen trying to come up with that perfect dish – when you could be enjoying the companionship of your family and friends?

Ranch Cheese Ball Recipe

Ingredients:

3 packages of cream cheese – room temperature

1 package of dry ranch mix

3 1/2 c. shredded cheddar cheese

1/3 c. diced green onions

2 c. slivered almonds (toasted)

Instructions:

1. Place room temperature cream cheese and ranch dressing packet in a bowl and mix together with a hand or stand mixer.

2. Add cheese and green onions – mix until combined.

3. Remove from bowl and place onto plastic wrap.  Form into a ball.

4. Wrap in plastic and refrigerate overnight, or for at least 8 hours allowing the ranch dressing to distribute evenly.  ** Do not try to shorten the time that this refrigerates – the flavors need time to incorporate.

5. Remove from refrigerator and roll in toasted almond slivers. *You can use whatever nuts you desire, but trust me, toasted nuts add an amazing depth of flavor that you don’t want to pass up.

6. Prior to serving, let cheese ball come to room temperature.  Serve with crackers of your choice.

Enjoy!

**If you would like to receive our Recipe Of The Week each Friday – be sure to sign up to follow the blog via email in the right had column, “like” us on  the Facebook, or follow us on Twitter.

Mary and Jim