Spread
A creamy vegetable spread with fresh, crisp flavors from cucumber, carrot, and pepper, perfect for sandwiches, crackers, or as a refreshing dip for any occasion.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Grate cucumbers, let stand for 1 hour, then drain.
- Chop onion, celery, green pepper, and grate carrots very finely.
- Soften cream cheese and blend with the vegetables.
- Add mayonnaise to achieve desired consistency and season with salt to taste.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, let the cream cheese soften at room temperature before mixing. If you don’t have celery, try using shredded zucchini or finely chopped radishes as substitutes. To enhance flavor, add a teaspoon of garlic powder or herbs like dill. This spread can also be adjusted with the addition of a little mayo for creaminess, similar to the Lemon Curd Spread.
Serving Suggestions
This spread is perfect for serving on crackers, toast, or as a dip for fresh vegetables. Pair it with sliced cucumbers and carrot sticks for a refreshing snack, or serve it alongside a light salad for lunch. It also complements dishes like Egg-Stuffed Tomatoes for a delightful meal. Consider adding it to a platter with other vegetarian recipes for a colorful spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Before serving, stir the spread well; if it has thickened, you can add a little more mayo or a splash of lemon juice to restore creaminess. Avoid freezing, as this may alter the texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spread contains roughly 245 calories, with 6g protein, 23g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (73% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and dietary fiber. It also contributes 4g 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 substitute. However, it may result in a slightly different texture and flavor. If you're looking to reduce calories, low-fat options are a great choice, but be aware that the spread may not be as creamy.
How can I make this spread spicier?
To add some heat, incorporate finely chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce into the mixture. You can also experiment with spicy mustard or a pinch of cayenne pepper to give it an extra kick. Adjust the amount according to your taste preference.
Is there a vegan alternative for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can use vegan cream cheese or blended silken tofu as a substitute for traditional cream cheese. This will still give you a creamy texture while keeping the spread plant-based. Just make sure to adjust the seasoning as needed to enhance the flavors.
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).