Sesame-Garlic Cheese Spread
A creamy, flavorful cheese spread infused with toasted sesame, garlic, and fresh parsley, perfect for pairing with raw vegetables or as a party appetizer.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place sesame seed in a small frying pan over medium heat; cook, stirring often, until golden.
- Beat cream cheese until smooth.
- Beat in Ricotta or cottage cheese, parsley, garlic salt, and the toasted sesame seed.
- Mound in a small serving bowl; cover and chill for up to 1 week.
- Before serving, let stand at room temperature for about half an hour.
- Serve the cheese spread with raw vegetables.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a teaspoon of lemon juice or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cheese spread. If you prefer a creamier texture, use mascarpone cheese instead of Ricotta or cottage cheese. Toast the sesame seeds just until golden to avoid a burnt taste, and feel free to substitute fresh herbs with dried ones if that's what you have on hand.
Serving Suggestions
This cheese spread pairs beautifully with raw vegetables like carrots, celery, and bell peppers for a healthy snack. For a more filling option, serve it alongside crackers or toasted baguette slices. You can also include it as part of a cheese platter, alongside fruits and nuts, or serve it with a side of Judy Barton's Salad for a refreshing meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover cheese spread in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. To maintain its texture, avoid freezing the spread, as cream cheese can separate upon thawing. Before serving leftovers, allow them to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to soften for easier spreading.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sesame-Garlic Cheese Spread contains roughly 108 calories, with 4g protein, 3g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is a good source of iron (14% of the Daily Value) and vitamin A (10% 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 low-fat cream cheese in this recipe?
Yes, you can use low-fat cream cheese to make this spread lighter. However, keep in mind that it may slightly alter the creaminess and flavor. If you prefer a richer taste, consider mixing in a small amount of full-fat cream cheese to balance it out.
What can I serve with this cheese spread?
This cheese spread is versatile and can be served with a variety of accompaniments. It goes well with fresh veggies, crackers, or even on sandwiches. For a fuller meal, try serving it with a side of your favorite salad or as part of a charcuterie board.
How long does this spread last in the fridge?
The cheese spread can be stored in the refrigerator for up to one week. To ensure its freshness, keep it in an airtight container. If you notice any changes in smell or appearance, it's best to discard it.
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).