Red Bell Pepper Over Cheese
A sweet and tangy red bell pepper spread served over cream cheese, perfect for appetizers or snacks, complemented by crunchy crackers and a cool, creamy base.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Boil the finely chopped red pepper, sugar, and water together for 15 minutes.
- Transfer the mixture to the refrigerator and keep it overnight.
- Serve the cooled red pepper mixture over cream cheese.
- Eat with crackers.
Tips & Substitutions
For a sweeter kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the red pepper mixture while boiling. If you're short on time, you can use jarred roasted red peppers instead of fresh ones. Cream cheese can also be substituted with goat cheese for a tangier flavor. Ensure the mixture cools completely before serving to maintain the best texture over the cheese.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is perfect as an appetizer for gatherings, especially alongside crackers. It pairs beautifully with Jackie'S Cheese Roll or can be served alongside a fresh salad for a light lunch. For added variety, consider serving it with a selection of spreads and dips, providing a delightful contrast to the creamy cheese.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover red pepper mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. When ready to serve again, simply take it out of the fridge and allow it to come to room temperature. If you prefer it warm, gently reheat it in a saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Red Bell Pepper Over Cheese contains roughly 514 calories, with 11g protein, 58g carbohydrates, and 28g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (91% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (25% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 466mg per serving (20% 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 a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can use various types of cheese depending on your preference. Cream cheese offers a smooth base, but ricotta or a flavored cheese spread can also work well. Just keep in mind that each cheese will change the flavor profile of the dish.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, mix in diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce into the boiling mixture. Alternatively, top the cream cheese with sliced fresh chili peppers before adding the red pepper mixture for a spicy kick.
Can this recipe be made ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, making it a day in advance enhances the flavors as they meld together. Just follow the recipe and refrigerate the mixture overnight. It will be ready to serve the next day, making it a convenient option for parties.
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).