Herbed Cheese With Garlic And Lemon
A creamy herbed cheese spread infused with garlic, lemon peel, and fresh herbs, perfect for entertaining or as a flavorful dip for crackers and fruit.
Ingredients
Instructions
- With an electric mixer, beat the softened cream cheese until light and fluffy.
- Add the chopped parsley, scallion, tarragon (or dill or basil), seasoned salt, onion powder, and garlic powder. Mix well.
- Stir in the grated lemon peel.
- Cover and chill the mixture for several hours to allow flavors to meld.
- Serve as a spread with assorted crackers and/or fruit.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, allow the cream cheese to soften fully at room temperature before mixing. You can substitute the fresh herbs with dried if necessary; just remember that dried herbs are more potent, so use about one-third of the amount. If you want to add a kick, consider mixing in some chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. This herbed cheese recipe pairs beautifully with Cheddar Garlic Dip.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this herbed cheese spread with a variety of crackers, sliced baguettes, or fresh fruit like apple slices and grapes for a delightful contrast. It makes an excellent addition to a cheese board or as a dip for vegetables. For a more substantial meal, pair it with a side of Cabbage Slaw With Yogurt Dressing to balance the richness.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. If the mixture thickens, give it a gentle stir before serving. This cheese spread does not freeze well due to the cream cheese's texture, so it's best enjoyed fresh. When ready to serve again, allow it to soften slightly at room temperature.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Herbed Cheese With Garlic And Lemon contains roughly 56 calories, with 2g protein, 10g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (13% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 516mg per serving (22% 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 non-dairy cream cheese for this recipe?
Yes, you can use non-dairy cream cheese alternatives if you're looking for a dairy-free option. Just ensure that the consistency is similar to regular cream cheese to achieve the desired fluffiness. The flavors from the herbs will still shine through, making it a great choice for those with dietary restrictions.
What types of crackers work best with the herbed cheese?
Any savory or mild-flavored crackers will complement the herbed cheese nicely. Consider using whole grain, water crackers, or even artisanal varieties with herbs or seeds. The goal is to provide a neutral base that allows the flavors of the cheese to stand out. You could also try pairing it with crisp vegetables.
How long should I chill the mixture before serving?
Chilling the herbed cheese for at least 2-4 hours is recommended to allow the flavors to meld together. If you have more time, chilling it overnight will enhance the taste even further. Just make sure to let it soften a bit before serving for the best texture.
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).