Herbed Cream Cheese
A creamy, herbed cheese spread perfect for entertaining, featuring fresh parsley, chives, Parmesan, and sour cream, ideal for serving with crackers, breads, or chips.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a blender or food processor, combine all ingredients until well blended.
- Chill overnight before serving for the best taste.
- Serve with assorted crackers, party breads, pita, or pretzel chips.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, blend the cream cheese and sour cream longer. If fresh herbs aren't available, dried herbs can be used, but reduce the quantity to one-third. For a flavor twist, consider adding a teaspoon of garlic powder or a pinch of red pepper flakes. This herbed cream cheese pairs wonderfully with various vegetarian recipes, making it a versatile choice for gatherings.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this herbed cream cheese alongside an assortment of crackers, party breads, or pita. It also pairs well with pretzel chips for a delightful crunch. For an elegant touch, consider serving it with tea sandwiches or as part of a charcuterie board. It complements fresh vegetables beautifully, making it a great dip option.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. The flavors will continue to meld over time, enhancing the taste. To serve, simply take the container out of the fridge and allow it to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving to soften the spread.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Herbed Cream Cheese contains roughly 179 calories, with 11g protein, 25g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (76% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (40% of the Daily Value), and iron (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. It also contributes 6g 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 for this recipe?
Yes, low-fat cream cheese can be used as a substitute, but it may result in a slightly different texture and flavor. The spread may be less creamy, so consider adding a bit more sour cream to enhance the consistency.
How long does the herbed cream cheese need to chill?
Chilling overnight is recommended for the best flavor, but if you're short on time, a minimum of 2 hours will allow the flavors to meld. Just keep in mind that the longer it sits, the more pronounced the herby flavor will become.
Can I add different herbs to this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with herbs like dill, basil, or tarragon. Just ensure the total amount remains around 1/4 cup to maintain the right consistency. This flexibility allows you to customize the flavor profile based on your preference.
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).