Nana'S Garlic And Herb Cheese
A creamy, herb-infused cheese spread with garlic and fresh parsley, perfect for crackers, breads, or as a tangy topping for meats, appealing to party hosts and cheese lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Process all ingredients in a food processor or mince parsley and beat all ingredients in a medium-sized bowl with an electric mixer until blended and smooth.
- Pack into a 1 pint decorative container or dish.
- Cover and refrigerate.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding a touch of lemon zest or substituting some parsley with fresh basil or cilantro. If you prefer a lighter option, use low-fat cream cheese. For a more pronounced garlic taste, increase the minced garlic to 1 teaspoon. This cheese spread is versatile, so feel free to experiment with herbs like thyme or tarragon.
Serving Suggestions
This garlic and herb cheese is perfect as a spread on crackers, toasted baguette slices, or fresh vegetables. It pairs beautifully with Liz'S Irish Soda Bread for a delightful brunch dish. For an elegant appetizer, serve it alongside a charcuterie board featuring assorted meats and fruits. Consider adding it to a sandwich for an extra flavor boost.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. When ready to serve, let the cheese sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to soften slightly, making it easier to spread. Avoid freezing, as it may alter the texture upon thawing.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Nana'S Garlic And Herb Cheese contains roughly 126 calories, with 4g protein, 21g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (61% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (45% of the Daily Value), and calcium (36% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. It also contributes 13g 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 use low-fat cream cheese for this recipe?
Yes, low-fat cream cheese can be used as a healthier alternative without compromising too much on flavor. It will still provide a creamy texture, making it suitable for spreading or mixing, while reducing the overall calories in your dish.
How can I make this cheese spread more spicy?
To add some heat to the garlic and herb cheese, consider incorporating a pinch of cayenne pepper or some finely chopped jalapeños. You can also mix in red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce, adjusting the amount to suit your taste.
Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh ones?
Absolutely! You can substitute dried herbs for fresh ones, but use them sparingly as dried herbs are more concentrated in flavor. Typically, use one-third the amount of dried herbs compared to fresh. For example, if the recipe calls for 1/2 cup of fresh parsley, use about 2 tablespoons of dried parsley.
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).