Lovage Spread
A vibrant, herbaceous spread featuring fresh lovage and onion blended with creamy cheese, perfect as a dip, cracker spread, or sandwich condiment for a fresh flavor boost.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Chop lovage leaves and tender stems along with chopped onion in a food processor.
- Add the cream cheese and blend until smooth.
- Let the flavors mellow for 1 to 2 hours before serving.
- Use as a dip, cracker spread, or as a substitute for mayonnaise on a sandwich.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, allow the cream cheese to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before mixing. If you don’t have lovage, fresh parsley or dill can be substituted, although the flavor will differ. Consider adding a pinch of garlic powder for an extra flavor boost. This spread works well in sandwiches, especially with recipes like Cheese-Onion French Bread.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this lovage spread with an assortment of crackers or fresh vegetables for a delightful appetizer. It also makes a great sandwich spread, particularly with hearty breads like Irish Soda Bread (A St. Patrick'S Day Must!). Pair it with a crisp salad or use it as a dip for pan-fried smelts for a well-rounded meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld, enhancing the taste. If the spread thickens too much, mix in a little olive oil or yogurt to rehydrate it before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lovage Spread contains roughly 182 calories, with 3g protein, 17g carbohydrates, and 11g fat.
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 dried lovage instead of fresh?
While fresh lovage is recommended for its vibrant flavor, you can use dried lovage if necessary. Just use about one-third the amount, as dried herbs are more concentrated. Keep in mind that the spread's taste will be different, so adjusting the seasoning may be needed.
How can I make this spread vegan?
To make a vegan version of this spread, substitute the cream cheese with a plant-based cream cheese alternative or blend soaked cashews with a bit of lemon juice and nutritional yeast for creaminess. This will keep the texture similar while accommodating a vegetarian diet.
What can I do if the spread is too thick?
If the spread turns out too thick, simply stir in a small amount of milk or yogurt to reach your desired consistency. This will help make it more spreadable, especially if you plan to use it on sandwiches or as a dip.
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).