French Garlic-Herb Cheese Spread
A rich, creamy garlic-herb cheese spread with fresh chives and parsley, perfect for serving with vegetables or crackers at gatherings. Its smooth texture and flavorful herbs make it a versatile appetizer that pairs well with many snacks, adding a burst of flavor to any occasion.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Blend the cream cheese, margarine, and sour cream until smooth.
- Mix in the minced garlic, chives, and dried parsley flakes.
- Chill the mixture for 3 hours or overnight.
- Serve with bite-size raw vegetables or crackers.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter spread, consider substituting Greek yogurt for sour cream. Fresh herbs can enhance flavor; if available, use fresh chives and parsley instead of dried. Make sure your cream cheese and margarine are at room temperature for easier blending. If you prefer a milder garlic flavor, use less minced garlic or roast it before adding.
Serving Suggestions
This cheese spread is perfect as an appetizer or snack, served with bite-size raw vegetables like carrots and bell peppers or alongside crackers. It also pairs beautifully with Cream Of Carrot Soup With Homemade Croutons for a complete meal. For a festive touch, consider serving it at parties or gatherings with a selection of cheeses and charcuterie.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. To maintain the spread's texture, avoid freezing, as it may become grainy upon thawing. If serving chilled, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving for easier spreading.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of French Garlic-Herb Cheese Spread contains roughly 277 calories, with 9g protein, 27g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (183% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (106% of the Daily Value), and iron (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and protein. It also contributes 7g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 low-fat cream cheese in this recipe?
Yes, low-fat cream cheese can be used in this recipe. However, it may alter the texture slightly, making it a bit less creamy. You can compensate by adjusting the amount of margarine or sour cream to achieve your desired consistency.
How long can I keep the cheese spread in the fridge?
The cheese spread can be stored in the refrigerator for up to one week. Make sure it is kept in an airtight container to preserve freshness and prevent any absorption of odors from other foods.
Can I make this spread ahead of time?
Absolutely! This spread is ideal for making ahead. Prepare it a day in advance and let it chill in the fridge. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making it even more delicious when served.
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).