Holiday Spread
A savory holiday spread combining Spam, olives, and cream cheese, perfect for festive gatherings. Rich, tangy, and easy to prepare, it pairs well with crackers and bread.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Grind the Spam and stuffed olives together.
- Mix the ground Spam and olives with grated onion and softened cream cheese until well combined.
- Store the spread in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
- Serve chilled with crackers.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, ensure the cream cheese is fully softened before mixing. If you prefer a spicier kick, consider adding a dash of hot sauce or using jalapeño-stuffed olives. You can substitute the Spam with a vegetarian alternative for a different flavor profile, making it a versatile option for various dietary preferences, like in American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
This Holiday Spread works wonderfully as a party appetizer. Serve it chilled alongside an array of crackers, fresh vegetables, or toasted baguette slices. It also pairs beautifully with Easy Fudge Brownies for a sweet and savory platter that will delight your guests during festive gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover spread in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. It can also be frozen for longer storage; just make sure to thaw it in the fridge before serving. Re-mixing may be necessary after thawing to restore its original consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Holiday Spread contains roughly 275 calories, with 5g protein, 13g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is a good source of vitamin A (19% of the Daily Value) and protein (11% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 595mg per serving (26% 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 make this spread ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, making it a day in advance allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just store it in the refrigerator and take it out shortly before serving to allow it to soften slightly for easier spreading.
What can I substitute for Spam if I don't eat meat?
You can replace Spam with a plant-based meat alternative or even mashed chickpeas for a vegetarian version. Additionally, using a smoked tofu can provide a similar texture and flavor profile while keeping it suitable for vegetarian recipes.
How can I spice up this recipe?
To add more flavor, consider incorporating diced bell peppers, fresh herbs like dill or parsley, or a splash of Worcestershire sauce. These additions can elevate the spread, making it more vibrant and flavorful while still maintaining the classic essence of the dish.
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).