Benedictine Spread
Benedictine Spread is a smooth, mildly tangy, cucumber-flavored cream cheese spread perfect for sandwiches and appetizers. Its vibrant green color and fresh flavors make it a delightful addition to brunch menus or snack platters, appealing to those who enjoy light, refreshing, and subtly spiced spreads.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients with 1 to 2 drops of green food coloring in a blender or food processor.
- Add more color if needed.
- Blend until smooth.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing. If cucumber juice is hard to find, you can blend peeled cucumbers and strain the pulp. Adjust the cayenne pepper to your heat preference, and for a more vibrant color, consider using natural beet juice instead of food coloring.
Serving Suggestions
This Benedictine Spread is perfect for sandwiches or as a dip for vegetables and crackers. It pairs beautifully with Fudge Fruit And Cream Salad for a delightful brunch or lunch spread. Consider serving it alongside a light salad for a refreshing meal or alongside toast points for a classic appetizer.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Benedictine Spread in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. If you plan to use it later, consider freezing it in small portions, allowing you to thaw only what you need. To serve, simply let it come to room temperature before spreading.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Benedictine Spread contains roughly 29 calories, with 1g protein, 5g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (20% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use Greek yogurt instead of cream cheese?
While Greek yogurt can provide a tangy flavor, it may alter the texture of the spread. If you prefer a lighter option, consider mixing half Greek yogurt with half cream cheese for a similar consistency but with added health benefits.
How can I make this spread spicier?
To add more heat, increase the amount of cayenne pepper or mix in finely chopped jalapeños. Alternatively, consider adding a dash of hot sauce for a different flavor profile that can really elevate the spread.
What can I serve this spread with?
Benedictine Spread is versatile and can be served with various items like bagels, pita chips, or fresh vegetables. It also works well as a sandwich filling. For a complete meal, pair it with light salads or serve it at brunch alongside other vegetarian recipes.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).