Tired of the same old snacks? Craving something flavorful, easy, and perfect for any occasion? Then look no further! This garlic and herb spreadable cheese recipe is your new go-to for a quick appetizer, a delicious addition to your charcuterie board, or a simple yet elegant spread for crackers and crudités. It's the epitome of homemade cooking, offering a burst of fresh, herbaceous flavor in minutes. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this unbelievably simple yet incredibly tasty recipe!
Ingredients:
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened (full-fat for best results)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried oregano)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
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Combine Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, minced garlic, chopped parsley, chives, and oregano. Make sure the cream cheese is truly softened to ensure a smooth and creamy consistency.
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Mix Thoroughly: Using a spatula or a fork, mix all the ingredients together until they are completely combined and evenly distributed. Take your time to ensure there are no clumps of herbs or garlic.
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Add Zest: Stir in the lemon juice, salt, and pepper. The lemon juice brightens the flavors and balances the richness of the cream cheese.
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Chill (Optional): For best results, cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the cheese to firm up slightly. This step is optional but highly recommended!
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Serve & Enjoy: Spread your delicious garlic and herb spreadable cheese on crackers, baguette slices, vegetables, or use it as a dip with tortilla chips.
Tips for the Best Garlic and Herb Spreadable Cheese:
- Soften the Cream Cheese Properly: This is crucial for a smooth and creamy texture. You can soften the cream cheese at room temperature for about 30 minutes, or microwave it in short bursts, stirring in between, until softened. Avoid overheating!
- Fresh Herbs are Best: Using fresh herbs makes a world of difference in the flavor and aroma of this spread. If you must use dried herbs, reduce the amount by about one-third.
- Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Feel free to adjust the amount of garlic, herbs, salt, and pepper according to your preference. A little extra lemon zest can also add a nice touch.
- Get Creative with Herbs: Experiment with other herbs like dill, thyme, or basil to create your own unique flavor combinations.
Variations:
- Spicy Spreadable Cheese: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little kick.
- Roasted Garlic Spreadable Cheese: Use roasted garlic for a sweeter and more mellow garlic flavor. Simply roast a head of garlic until soft and caramelized, then squeeze out the cloves and incorporate them into the recipe.
- Sun-dried Tomato Spreadable Cheese: Add 1/4 cup of sun-dried tomatoes, chopped, for a Mediterranean twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used. It's always recommended to use a nutrition calculator for a precise analysis based on your specific ingredients.
- Calories: Approximately 100-120
- Fat: Approximately 10-12g
- Protein: Approximately 2-3g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 2-3g
This garlic and herb spreadable cheese is a fantastic addition to any gathering or a perfect treat for a quiet night in. Its versatility and ease of preparation make it a true winner among quick dinner ideas and healthy meals. Enjoy!