Tired of the same old snacks? Craving something flavorful, easy to make, and perfect for any occasion? Then look no further! This garlic herb cheese spread is your new go-to recipe for effortless entertaining or a quick and satisfying snack. It’s bursting with fresh herbs, savory garlic, and creamy cheese, making it a delicious addition to crackers, vegetables, or even crusty bread. This homemade recipe is far superior to store-bought versions, and it's surprisingly quick to whip up! Get ready to impress your friends and family with this simple yet elegant appetizer.
Ingredients:
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: 1 tablespoon lemon juice for extra brightness
Instructions:
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Prep the Herbs: Start by washing and thoroughly drying your fresh herbs. This ensures the spread has the best flavor and texture. Finely chop the parsley, chives, and basil. Mincing the garlic finely is key to preventing large chunks in the final spread.
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Combine Ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and mayonnaise. Use a spatula or whisk to ensure they are fully combined and smooth. This creates a creamy base for your delicious spread.
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Add Flavor: Stir in the minced garlic, chopped herbs (parsley, chives, and basil), dried oregano, salt, and pepper. If using, add the lemon juice at this stage. Mix everything together until it's evenly distributed throughout the cream cheese mixture.
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Chill and Serve: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the spread to chill. This step is crucial for a well-balanced taste and a firmer texture. Serve chilled with your favorite crackers, baguette slices, vegetables like carrots and celery, or even as a dip with potato chips.
Cooking Tips for the Best Garlic Herb Cheese Spread:
- Soften the Cream Cheese: Make sure your cream cheese is properly softened. This prevents lumps and makes it easier to mix. You can soften it by leaving it out at room temperature for about 30 minutes or by microwaving it in short bursts.
- Adjust Herbs to Taste: Feel free to adjust the herbs according to your preference. Love rosemary? Add a tablespoon! Experiment with different herb combinations to find your perfect blend.
- Spice it Up: For a little kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- Make it Ahead: This spread can be made a day or two in advance, which is perfect for meal prepping or party planning.
Variations:
- Roasted Garlic: For a deeper, sweeter garlic flavor, use roasted garlic instead of raw minced garlic.
- Sun-dried Tomatoes: Add a tablespoon or two of chopped sun-dried tomatoes for a burst of umami and sweetness.
- Spicy Kick: Incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 100-120
- Fat: 10-12g
- Protein: 2-3g
- Carbohydrates: 2-3g
This garlic herb cheese spread is a fantastic example of how easy and delicious healthy meals can be. It’s a perfect addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas, making weeknight entertaining a breeze. Enjoy this versatile and flavorful spread—it's sure to become a staple in your kitchen!