Mrs. Peavyhouse'S Cheese Mold And Dressing
A savory cheese mold with crunchy nuts, colorful peppers, and olives, perfect for elegant gatherings or as a flavorful appetizer that delights with creamy textures and vibrant flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Dissolve gelatin in cold water and set aside.
- Cream together cottage cheese, cream cheese, salt, and sugar using a fork.
- Dissolve soaked gelatin over hot water, then quickly add heavy cream and stir into the cheeses.
- Add chopped nuts, grated onion, chopped pepper, and sliced olives to the cheese mixture.
- Reserve some olives for garnish.
- Oil a 5-cup ring mold well.
- Arrange some of the garnishes in the bottom of the mold.
- Press the cheese mixture firmly into the mold.
- Refrigerate until set.
- Serve with dressing.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using low-fat cottage cheese and cream cheese. If you don't have heavy cream, you can substitute it with half-and-half or milk, though the texture may be slightly different. To enhance the flavor, add herbs like dill or chives to the mixture. Ensure the gelatin is fully dissolved to avoid any lumps in the final dish.
Serving Suggestions
This cheese mold is perfect as an appetizer or side dish. Serve it with a light salad or alongside crackers for a delightful contrast. For a complete meal, pair it with dishes like Scalloped Potatoes With Cheese And Herbs. Garnishing with additional olives or a sprinkle of fresh herbs adds a lovely touch.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If the cheese mold is set firmly, you can cut it into slices for easy serving. To refresh the flavor before serving, consider adding a drizzle of Gourmet Garlic Butter or a fresh herb garnish.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mrs. Peavyhouse'S Cheese Mold And Dressing contains roughly 540 calories, with 10g protein, 80g carbohydrates, and 24g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (99% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (44% of the Daily Value), and potassium (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2205mg per serving (96% 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 cheese mold ahead of time?
Yes, this dish is ideal for making ahead. Prepare it a day in advance and let it set overnight in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just ensure it's covered well to prevent drying out.
What can I use instead of Knox gelatin?
If you prefer not to use gelatin, you can substitute it with agar-agar for a vegetarian option. Follow the package instructions for the correct amount, as it may vary from gelatin. Keep in mind that the texture will differ slightly, but it will still hold together well.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add a spicy kick, incorporate diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce into the cheese mixture. You could also experiment with spicier varieties of peppers instead of the mild red or green pepper. Adjust the amount according to your heat preference.
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).