Pistachio, apricot & feta balls

Pistachio, Apricot & Feta Balls are a unique appetizer that beautifully combines the nutty flavor of pistachios, sweet dried apricots, and tangy feta cheese. They're baked for a crispy exterior and can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature.

25 Jan 2026
Cook time 25 min
Prep time 30 min

Ingredients:

1/4 cup butter
2 onions
4 cups bread crumbs
1 cup pistachio nuts
1 cup dried apricots
1 cup feta cheese
1 cup fresh parsley
6 eggs
2 tbsp olive oil

Pistachio, Apricot & Feta Balls are a delightful and unique appetizer that combines the rich flavors of pistachios, the sweetness of dried apricots, and the tanginess of feta cheese. This versatile dish can be served at parties, as a snack, or even as a side dish for your main meal, adding a burst of flavor to every bite.

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil.

2. Prepare Ingredients:
- Finely chop the onions.
- Coarsely chop the pistachio nuts.
- Finely chop the dried apricots.
- Crumble the feta cheese.
- Finely chop the fresh parsley.

3. Cook Onions:
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they are soft and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.

4. Mix Dry Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the bread crumbs, chopped pistachios, dried apricots, crumbled feta cheese, and chopped parsley. Mix well to ensure an even distribution of ingredients.

5. Combine:
Add the sautéed onions to the bread crumb mixture. Stir in the lightly beaten eggs until the mixture is well combined and holds together when shaped.

6. Form Balls:
Using your hands, form the mixture into golf ball-sized balls (about 1-2 inches in diameter). Place the formed balls onto the prepared baking sheet.

7. Bake:
Drizzle the olive oil evenly over the balls. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and firm to the touch.

8. Serve:
Remove the balls from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. These can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature.

Pistachio, Apricot & Feta Balls are not only easy to prepare but also packed with diverse flavors and textures. Whether it's for a special gathering or a simple meal at home, these delicious bites will surely impress your guests and add an exquisite touch to your culinary repertoire.

Pistachio, apricot & feta balls FAQ:

What is the baking time for Pistachio, Apricot & Feta Balls?

Bake the Pistachio, Apricot & Feta Balls in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and firm to the touch.

How do I know when the Pistachio, Apricot & Feta Balls are done?

They are done when they are golden brown on the outside and firm to the touch. You can also insert a toothpick; it should come out clean without any wet mixture sticking to it.

Can I store leftover Pistachio, Apricot & Feta Balls?

Yes, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for up to 2 months; reheat in the oven before serving.

What can I use as a substitute for feta cheese in this recipe?

If you need a substitute, you can use goat cheese or ricotta cheese. However, the flavor profile will change slightly, with goat cheese providing tanginess similar to feta.

Is it possible to make these Pistachio, Apricot & Feta Balls gluten-free?

Yes, you can use gluten-free bread crumbs instead of regular bread crumbs to make this recipe gluten-free. Ensure that all other ingredients are also gluten-free.

Cooking Tips:

- Preparation: Chop the onions finely for even cooking and a consistent texture within the balls.

- Combining Ingredients: Ensure the pistachios, apricots, and feta cheese are evenly distributed throughout the mixture. You may want to roughly chop the pistachios and apricots for better incorporation.

- Binding: Mix the eggs thoroughly with the other ingredients to ensure that the balls hold their shape while cooking.

- Shaping the Balls: Use your hands to shape the mixture into uniform balls, pressing gently to ensure they hold together.

- Cooking: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Place the balls on a baking tray lined with parchment paper, and bake for 20-25 minutes until they are golden brown and cooked through.

- Serving: Serve the balls warm or at room temperature, potentially paired with a dipping sauce, such as a yogurt-based dip or a spicy tomato chutney.

- Storage: Store any leftover balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven or microwave before serving.

Nutrition Facts

8 Servings
Calories 530kcal
Protein 20g
Carbohydrates 55g
Fiber 6g
Sugar 16g
Fat 30g

Pistachio, apricot & feta balls