This Herb & Veggie Cream Cheese Spread is a refreshing, versatile, and creamy recipe that brings together the richness of cream cheese with the crunch and flavor of fresh vegetables and herbs. Perfect for bagels, sandwiches, wraps, or as a dip for crackers and veggie sticks, it adds a burst of flavor to any meal. Not only is it quick to prepare, but it’s also customizable, allowing you to use your favorite vegetables and herbs to create a spread that suits your taste. Whether you want to elevate your breakfast, prepare a party appetizer, or create a healthy snack, this recipe is a delightful option. It’s rich, savory, and provides both nutrition and satisfaction in every bite.
Ingredients
- 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
- 1 small carrot, finely grated
- 1 small cucumber, finely diced (remove seeds if watery)
- 2 tbsp red bell pepper, finely chopped
- 2 tbsp fresh chives, finely chopped
- 1 tbsp parsley, finely chopped
- 1 small green onion, finely chopped
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Place softened cream cheese in a mixing bowl and beat with a spoon or mixer until smooth and fluffy.
- Add grated carrot, diced cucumber, red bell pepper, chives, parsley, and green onion to the cream cheese. Mix until well combined.
- Stir in lemon juice, season with salt and pepper, and mix again. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving for best flavor.
Servings
Makes about 6 servings
Nutritional Info (per serving, approx.)
Calories: 95
Protein: 2 g
Fat: 8 g
Carbohydrates: 3 g
Fiber: 1 g
Sugar: 1 g
Sodium: 95 mg
Notes
This spread is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For a lighter version, substitute regular cream cheese with reduced-fat or Greek yogurt cream cheese. You can also use dairy-free cream cheese to make it vegan.
Tips
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of garlic powder or onion powder.
- Use fresh, crisp vegetables to avoid excess moisture in the spread.
- Try spreading on whole-grain toast or stuffing inside celery sticks for a fun snack.
- To make it more colorful, use a mix of red, yellow, and orange bell peppers.
Health Benefits
This Herb & Veggie Cream Cheese Spread is not only tasty but also nourishing. The cream cheese provides calcium and protein, while the fresh vegetables add fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants. Carrots are rich in beta-carotene for eye health, cucumbers provide hydration, and bell peppers are packed with vitamin C. Fresh herbs like parsley and chives add detoxifying properties and essential phytonutrients. Choosing a lighter cream cheese can reduce saturated fat intake while still enjoying the creaminess. This spread is a balanced way to include more vegetables in your diet without compromising on taste.
Q & A
Q: Can I make this spread ahead of time?
A: Yes, prepare it a day in advance and refrigerate; it tastes even better as the flavors meld.
Q: Can I freeze this cream cheese spread?
A: Freezing is not recommended, as the texture of cream cheese changes after thawing.
Q: What can I serve this with besides bagels?
A: It pairs wonderfully with crackers, wraps, sandwiches, pita bread, or as a veggie dip.
Q: Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
A: Fresh herbs are best for flavor and color, but you can use dried herbs in smaller quantities if fresh ones are not available.
Q: How can I make this spread spicier?
A: Add finely chopped jalapeño, a dash of chili flakes, or hot sauce for a spicy twist.