Vegetarian-Cream Cheese Spread
A creamy, flavorful vegetarian spread with garlic, green onions, and olives, perfect for crackers, bagel chips, or French bread, ideal for parties or casual snacking.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, with an electric mixer on high speed, beat the cream cheese, garlic, and pepper until well blended.
- Stir in green onions and chopped olives.
- Spoon the mixture into a serving bowl.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow flavors to blend.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, allow the cream cheese to soften longer at room temperature. You can substitute the green onions with chives for a milder flavor or use sun-dried tomatoes instead of olives for a different twist. If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper. This spread is perfect for gatherings alongside assorted crackers or paired with the Oatmeal Apple Butter Bars.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this delicious cream cheese spread with an assortment of crackers, bagel chips, or thinly sliced French bread. It works wonderfully as a party appetizer or a snack for game day. Consider pairing it with the Chocolate Orange Tea Drops for a delightful contrast in flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. The flavors continue to develop over time, making it even more delicious the next day. There’s no need to reheat this spread; serve it chilled for the best flavor experience.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Vegetarian-Cream Cheese Spread contains roughly 740 calories, with 15g protein, 100g carbohydrates, and 31g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (35% of the Daily Value) and protein (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 620mg per serving (27% 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! In fact, making it a day in advance allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just cover it tightly and refrigerate until you're ready to serve.
What can I use instead of olives?
If you're not a fan of olives, you can replace them with finely chopped roasted red peppers or artichoke hearts for a different flavor profile. Just make sure to adjust the seasoning accordingly.
Is this spread suitable for vegans?
This recipe contains cream cheese, so it's not vegan-friendly. However, you can use a plant-based cream cheese alternative to make it suitable for a vegan diet while maintaining the same delicious taste.
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).