Looking for a light and refreshing appetizer that’s both easy to prepare and delicious? This Cucumber Cream Cheese Spread is your answer! Bursting with fresh flavors from cucumber, red onion, and dill, it’s the perfect addition to your next gathering. Whether served with crackers, in sandwiches, or as a veggie dip, this spread is sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients:
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup cucumber, finely chopped
1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, finely chopped cucumber, red onion, fresh dill, and lemon juice. Mix until well combined.
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Feel free to adjust the ingredients for a more personalized flavor if desired.
Refrigerate the spread for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Serve chilled with crackers, on sandwiches, or as a dip for fresh vegetables.
Serving Tips:
Chill Before Serving: For the best flavor and texture, make sure to chill the spread for at least 1 hour before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together nicely.
Presentation: Serve the spread in a decorative bowl with a sprinkle of fresh dill on top for an appealing presentation. Pair it with colorful veggies and an assortment of crackers for a beautiful appetizer platter.
Pairings: Consider serving the spread alongside:
Sliced baguette or crusty bread
Pita chips or tortilla chips
Fresh vegetable sticks (carrots, celery, bell peppers, etc.)
Sandwiches or wraps, as a tasty condiment
Garnishes: Add extra garnishes, such as lemon zest or additional chopped herbs, to enhance the visual appeal and flavor.
Storage Tips:
Refrigeration: Store any leftover Cucumber Cream Cheese Spread in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about 3-4 days.
Freezing: While cream cheese spreads can be frozen, the texture may change upon thawing. If you choose to freeze it, transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Avoid Cross-Contamination: When serving, use a clean utensil to scoop out the spread. This helps prevent bacteria growth and keeps the spread fresh longer.
Check for Freshness: Always check for any off smells or changes in texture before consuming leftovers. If you notice anything unusual, it’s best to discard it.
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FAQs:
Can I use low-fat cream cheese for this spread?
Yes, you can substitute low-fat or reduced-fat cream cheese for regular cream cheese. While the spread may have a slightly different texture, it will still be delicious and lighter in calories.
How can I make this spread dairy-free?
To make a dairy-free version, substitute cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative, such as cashew cream cheese or a store-bought vegan cream cheese. Ensure that other ingredients, like crackers and dips, are also dairy-free.
What can I add to customize the flavor?
Feel free to customize the spread by adding ingredients like minced garlic, chopped bell peppers, or different herbs such as chives or parsley. You can also adjust the amount of lemon juice for more tang or add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
How long does the spread stay fresh?
When stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, the Cucumber Cream Cheese Spread will remain fresh for about 3-4 days. Always check for off smells or changes in texture before consuming leftovers.
Conclusion:
This Cucumber Cream Cheese Spread is a delightful way to elevate your appetizers. Its light and creamy texture, combined with fresh flavors, makes it an irresistible choice for any gathering. Try it out today and impress your family and friends with this easy-to-make, delicious spread!
📖 Recipe:
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Cucumber Cream Cheese Spread
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes (including chilling)
- Yield: Makes about 1 cup
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Cucumber Cream Cheese Spread is a light, creamy appetizer that combines fresh cucumber, zesty red onion, and aromatic dill. Perfect for parties, picnics, or as a tasty dip, this versatile spread is easy to make and will delight your guests. Serve it with crackers, in sandwiches, or as a refreshing vegetable dip for a delicious addition to any meal.
Ingredients
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup cucumber, finely chopped
1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, finely chopped cucumber, red onion, fresh dill, and lemon juice. Mix until well combined.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust ingredients for a more personalized flavor if desired.
- Refrigerate the spread for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve chilled with crackers, on sandwiches, or as a dip for vegetables.
Notes
Feel free to customize the spread by adding minced garlic or other herbs to suit your taste.
For a dairy-free version, substitute the cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Makes about 1 cup
- Calories: 80 kcal per serving
Keywords: Cucumber Cream Cheese Spread, appetizer recipe, creamy dip, vegetable dip, easy spread, party food, fresh flavors, healthy appetizer
