Homemade "Deli" Pimento Cheese Spread
A creamy, tangy pimento cheese spread with sweet relish and mild spices, perfect for sandwiches, dips, or snacks, appealing to cheese lovers and party hosts alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Let the cheese come to room temperature.
- Add the drained pimentos and mash with a fork until smooth.
- Stir in the drained sweet relish, sugar, white pepper, and processed cheese spread.
- Chill the spread before serving or spreading on bread or toast.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using a food processor instead of mashing with a fork. You can substitute the processed cheese spread with a sharp cheddar for a bolder flavor. If you prefer a bit of heat, add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. Adjust sugar based on your taste preference; some may prefer less sweetness.
Serving Suggestions
Pimento cheese spread is perfect as a sandwich filling or served with crackers for a delightful appetizer. It pairs beautifully with Cherry Tortilla Roll-Ups for a fun twist. Consider serving it alongside fresh vegetables for dipping or as a topping for burgers for an added flavor boost.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover pimento cheese spread in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. To maintain freshness, press a piece of plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the spread before sealing the container. This will help prevent it from drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Homemade "Deli" Pimento Cheese Spread contains roughly 322 calories, with 8g protein, 57g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (71% of the Daily Value), iron (58% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and calcium. It also contributes 20g 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 make pimento cheese spread ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this spread a day in advance. Storing it overnight allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just ensure it's well covered to keep it fresh and flavorful.
What can I substitute for sweet relish?
If you don't have sweet relish, you can use finely chopped sweet pickles or a mix of chopped cucumbers with a little sugar added for sweetness. This will maintain the flavor profile of the spread.
Is there a vegan option for this recipe?
Yes, you can create a vegan version by using a plant-based cheese spread and ensuring your pimentos and relish are also vegan-friendly. This way, you can enjoy a similar taste without the dairy.
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).