Pimento "Cheese" Spread
A creamy, savory spread with the tang of pimentos and lemon, perfect for sandwiches, crackers, or as a dip. Its rich, nutty flavor suits vegans and those seeking a dairy-free alternative, offering a delightful combination of smooth texture and bold taste in every bite.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Blend cashew pieces, salt, and water until very smooth.
- Put the blended mixture in a pan and cook, stirring constantly, until it thickens.
- Return the mixture to the blender and blend in garlic powder, pimento with juice, onion powder, a pinch of thyme, and lemon juice.
- If used in another recipe, use raw.
- If used as a sauce, return to stove and cook until bubbly, about 5 minutes, on low to medium heat.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, soak the cashew pieces in water for a few hours before blending. You can substitute cashews with soaked sunflower seeds for a nut-free version. Feel free to adjust the spices according to your preference; adding a pinch of smoked paprika can give a nice depth. This spread works great as a dip or a spread on sandwiches.
Serving Suggestions
This Pimento 'Cheese' Spread is perfect as a party appetizer served with crispy oven chips or fresh vegetable sticks. It also complements sandwiches beautifully—try it on a veggie sandwich or alongside Ground Sirloin And Swiss Chard. For a delightful meal, serve it with Fiesta Ranch Potatoes With Creamy Chile Dip for a flavorful combination.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently until heated through. If it thickens too much in the fridge, you can add a bit of water or vegetable broth to reach your desired consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pimento "Cheese" Spread contains roughly 220 calories, with 7g protein, 51g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (33% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1030mg per serving (45% 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 spread ahead of time?
Absolutely! This spread can be made a day in advance, which allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and give it a quick stir before serving to restore its creamy texture.
Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
Yes, this Pimento 'Cheese' Spread is completely vegan, as it uses cashews instead of dairy. It's a fantastic alternative for those following a plant-based diet and can be enjoyed by everyone, regardless of dietary restrictions.
Can I freeze the Pimento 'Cheese' Spread?
While it's possible to freeze the spread, the texture may change upon thawing. If you choose to freeze it, make sure to store it in a freezer-safe container. When ready to use, thaw it in the fridge overnight and stir well before serving to regain some creaminess.
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).