Low-Fat Pimento Cheese
A creamy, low-fat pimento cheese with rich flavors from Velveeta and Parmesan, perfect as a dip or spread for casual gatherings and cheese lovers alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut the Velveeta cheese into small chunks.
- Place the Velveeta, Parmesan cheese, cottage cheese, and pimentos into a food processor.
- Process until smooth and well combined.
- Add pimento liquid as needed to reach desired consistency.
- Season with pepper to taste and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, try using a blend of low-fat cream cheese with the cottage cheese. You can substitute the Velveeta with a lower-fat cheddar cheese, but it may alter the flavor slightly. Adjust the amount of pepper to your liking, and consider adding a dash of hot sauce for some heat. This pimento cheese also makes a great spread for sandwiches, especially on Buttered Sourdough Bread Or Rolls.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this low-fat pimento cheese as a spread for crackers, toast, or fresh vegetables. It pairs beautifully with sandwiches, especially those made with hearty whole grain bread. For a fun twist, try using it as a dip for chips or as a topping for baked potatoes. It also complements the flavors in Vegetarian recipes, making it a versatile dish for gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover pimento cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. If it thickens, add a bit of pimento liquid or a splash of milk to restore the desired consistency. Avoid freezing, as it may change the texture of the cheese when thawed.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Low-Fat Pimento Cheese contains roughly 93 calories, with 9g protein, 9g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is a good source of protein (18% of the Daily Value), calcium (16% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (14% 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 pimento cheese ahead of time?
Absolutely! This pimento cheese can be made a day in advance, allowing the flavors to meld together even more. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Before serving, give it a quick stir to bring it back to its creamy consistency.
What can I use instead of pimentos?
If you can't find pimentos, roasted red peppers or chopped green olives can serve as great substitutes. They will bring a different flavor profile but will still add a nice touch to your pimento cheese. Just be sure to drain them well before adding to the mix.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this low-fat pimento cheese recipe is naturally gluten-free as all the ingredients used are gluten-free. Just ensure that any accompaniments, like crackers or bread, are also gluten-free if you are serving it to those with gluten sensitivities.
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).