Tropical Ball of Cheese

Note: This recipe is especially for kids who need a gluten-free diet. Kids who need a gluten-free diet must avoid foods that contain gluten, which is 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 1/2 c. walnuts.
3. Chill well in refrigerator.
4. Mold into a ball and roll cheese in remaining 1/2 c. of nuts.

Serves: 11

Serving size: 1/4 c.

Nutritional analysis (per serving):

127 calories
5 g protein
10 g fat
3 g sat. fat
5 g carbohydrate
1 g fiber
11 mg cholesterol
110 mg sodium
53 mg calcium
0 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.

Updated and reviewed by: Allison Brinkley, RD, LD/N, CNSD