Garden Vegetable Cream Cheese: A Flavorful, Homemade Spread
Introduction
There’s something special about making your own flavored cream cheese at home. Whether you’re spreading it on a warm bagel, using it as a dip for fresh veggies, or adding a dollop to a sandwich, this Garden Vegetable Cream Cheese recipe is a fresh, flavorful alternative to store-bought varieties. Made with crunchy, colorful veggies and rich, creamy cheese, it’s the perfect way to elevate your breakfast or snack time. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make!
Table of Contents
Recipe Card: Garden Vegetable Cream Cheese
Recipe Name:
Garden Vegetable Cream Cheese
Description:
This homemade garden vegetable cream cheese is creamy, rich, and packed with fresh, crisp veggies. Perfect for spreading on bagels, toast, or crackers, it’s a quick and easy spread that adds a burst of flavor to any meal.
| Prep Time | 10 minutes |
|---|---|
| Total Time | 10 minutes |
| Servings | 8 servings |
| Calories | Approximately 90 calories per serving |
Ingredients:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup red bell pepper, finely chopped
- ¼ cup cucumber peeled and finely chopped
- ¼ cup carrots, finely shredded
- 2 tbsp green onion, finely chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped (optional)
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ¼ tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Prepare the Vegetables: Chop the red bell pepper, cucumber, green onion, and shred the carrots. Make sure the vegetables are finely chopped so they blend smoothly with the cream cheese.
- Mix the Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese with the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and creamy.
- Fold in the Vegetables: Gently fold in the chopped vegetables and fresh herbs until everything is well combined.
- Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the cream cheese mixture for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Serve chilled on bagels, crackers, or as a veggie dip.
Notes:
- If you prefer a smoother texture, you can blend the cream cheese and veggies in a food processor until the desired consistency is achieved.
- Feel free to add other fresh herbs like chives or basil for extra flavor.
Nutrition Information (per serving):
- Serving Size: 2 tbsp
- Calories: 90
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 85mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Fresh and Flavorful: Packed with fresh vegetables, this cream cheese spread is bursting with garden-fresh flavors.
- Quick and Easy: It takes just 10 minutes to prepare, making it an ideal choice for a last-minute snack or spread.
- Customizable: You can easily adjust the vegetables and herbs to suit your taste preferences, or even make it spicy by adding some jalapeños!
Key Ingredients and Substitutions
- Cream Cheese: The base of this recipe, regular cream cheese provides a rich, creamy texture. For a lighter option, you can use reduced-fat or fat-free cream cheese.
- Bell Peppers: Red bell peppers add a nice sweetness and crunch. You can substitute with green or yellow bell peppers for a different flavor profile.
- Carrots: Shredded carrots give the spread a mild sweetness and vibrant color. If you prefer, you can omit them or replace them with shredded zucchini.
- Herbs: Fresh parsley and dill provide an herbal note. Feel free to experiment with other herbs like chives, basil, or cilantro for extra layers of flavor.
How to Make Garden Vegetable Cream Cheese (Step-by-Step)
- Chop the Vegetables: Start by prepping all your vegetables. Ensure they are finely chopped so they blend well with the cream cheese.
- Soften the Cream Cheese: Make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature. This makes it easier to mix and ensures a smooth texture.
- Mix Everything Together: In a bowl, combine the softened cream cheese with your seasonings. Then, gently fold in the vegetables and fresh herbs.
- Chill and Enjoy: Let the cream cheese sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Expert Tips for Success
- Room Temperature Cream Cheese: Always start with softened cream cheese to ensure it mixes smoothly with the vegetables.
- Customize the Veggies: Feel free to add or subtract vegetables based on what you have on hand. Chopped celery or radishes are great additions for extra crunch.
- Use a Food Processor: For an extra-smooth texture, you can pulse the cream cheese and vegetables in a food processor.
Variations and Customizations
- Spicy Version: Add chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy twist.
- Herb-Heavy: For an herbaceous flavor, add more fresh herbs like basil, chives, or cilantro.
- Lighter Option: Use Greek yogurt in place of some of the cream cheese for a lighter, tangy version of this spread.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
- Storing Leftovers: Store any leftover garden vegetable cream cheese in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: While cream cheese doesn’t freeze well due to texture changes, you can freeze this spread for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before using.
Serving Suggestions
- Bagels and Toast: Spread on toasted bagels, bread, or crackers for a quick snack or breakfast.
- Dips: Serve it as a dip for fresh vegetables, pita chips, or pretzels.
- Sandwiches and Wraps: Use this cream cheese as a flavorful spread on sandwiches or wraps for added creaminess.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I use other vegetables in this recipe?
Yes! You can add other vegetables like radishes, celery, or zucchini for extra flavor and texture. - How long does this garden vegetable cream cheese last?
It lasts up to 5 days in the fridge when stored in an airtight container. - Can I make this cream cheese ahead of time?
Absolutely! This recipe is great for making ahead. Just store it in the fridge until you’re ready to use it.
Related Recipes
- Herb and Garlic Cream Cheese: Another homemade cream cheese variation packed with fresh herbs and garlic.
- Vegetable Bagel Sandwich: Pair vegetable cream cheese with fresh cucumbers, tomatoes, and lettuce for a perfect veggie bagel sandwich.
Conclusion
This Garden Vegetable Cream Cheese is a simple, fresh, and flavorful way to elevate any snack or meal. Its crunchy veggies and smooth, creamy texture make it a versatile spread that can be customized to suit your preferences. Try it out and enjoy a little garden taste in every bite!
Give it a try, and indulge in the creamy, savory goodness of this Garden Vegetable Cream Cheese Recipe! Perfect for spreading on bagels, crackers, or using as a dip for fresh veggies. Don’t forget to snap a picture and share your #BeesRecipes creations on Instagram – we can’t wait to see how you enjoy this garden-fresh, flavorful spread!