Marty'S Favorite(Cracker Spread)
A creamy, flavorful cracker spread featuring tender shrimp, cream cheese, lemon juice, and onion, perfect for parties or casual snacking with friends and family.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Soften the cream cheese in a bowl.
- Rinse the tiny shrimp and drain well.
- Add the cream cheese, shrimp, lemon juice, and chopped onion to a mixing bowl.
- Beat on low speed until well combined.
- Refrigerate overnight to allow flavors to meld.
- Serve the spread on crackers.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of the spread, consider adding a pinch of garlic powder or dill to the mixture. If you don't have tiny shrimp, canned crab meat can be a great substitute. For a lighter option, use reduced-fat cream cheese. Make sure to soften the cream cheese adequately, as this will ensure a smooth consistency when mixing. Serve with a variety of crackers for a delightful texture contrast.
Serving Suggestions
This delicious cracker spread is perfect for parties or as a simple appetizer. Serve with an assortment of crackers, breadsticks, or sliced vegetables for dipping. It pairs beautifully with Mini Salmon Patties or can be included in a seafood-themed platter. Consider adding a fresh garnish of parsley or lemon zest to elevate the presentation.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop, making it even tastier. Avoid freezing the spread, as cream cheese can change texture when thawed. When ready to serve, give it a gentle stir to recombine before spreading on crackers.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Marty'S Favorite(Cracker Spread) contains roughly 134 calories, with 8g protein, 11g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is a good source of protein (17% 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 use fresh shrimp instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh shrimp for a more vibrant flavor. If using fresh shrimp, ensure they are cooked, peeled, and deveined before adding them to the mixture. Just be sure to chop them into smaller pieces for better incorporation into the spread.
How can I make this spread spicier?
To add some heat, consider mixing in a dash of hot sauce or finely chopped jalapeños. You could also add cayenne pepper to taste. Experiment with spices gradually to achieve your desired level of spiciness without overpowering the delicate shrimp flavor.
Is this spread suitable for a gluten-free diet?
Yes, the spread itself is gluten-free, provided that you use gluten-free crackers for serving. Be sure to check the labels of the cream cheese and any additional ingredients to ensure they meet gluten-free standards.
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).