Description
A quick and easy Veggie Cream Cheese Spread packed with fresh bell peppers, red onion, carrots, and herbs. This creamy, flavorful spread is perfect for bagels, crackers, or as a veggie dip, offering a delicious way to add wholesome veggies to your snack or appetizer.
Ingredients
Scale
Spread Base
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional, for extra flavor)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Vegetables and Herbs
- 1/2 cup finely chopped bell pepper (red, yellow, or green)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
- 1/4 cup grated carrots
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped
Instructions
- Prepare the Veggies: Finely chop the bell pepper, red onion, and fresh parsley. Grate the carrots and finely chop the fresh chives to ensure even distribution and texture throughout the spread.
- Mix the Cream Cheese: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the softened cream cheese with lemon juice, garlic powder, and paprika if using. Stir these ingredients together thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Add the Veggies: Fold in the chopped bell pepper, red onion, grated carrots, parsley, and chives gently but thoroughly, making sure all the ingredients are evenly incorporated into the cream cheese base.
- Season: Taste the spread and add salt and pepper according to your preference. Adjust seasoning carefully to enhance the flavors without overpowering the freshness of the veggies.
- Chill (Optional): For optimal flavor blending, refrigerate the veggie cream cheese spread for at least 30 minutes. This resting time allows the flavors to meld and develop a richer taste.
- Serve: Enjoy your veggie cream cheese spread by spreading it on bagels, crackers, or using it as a fresh veggie dip. It’s perfect for snacks, appetizers, or light meals.
Notes
- For a dairy-free version, substitute cream cheese with a vegan cream cheese alternative.
- Feel free to adjust the types of bell peppers for varied flavor and color.
- Chilling the spread enhances the flavor but can be skipped if serving immediately.
- Use fresh herbs to maximize the fresh taste and texture of the spread.
- This spread keeps well refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Spread
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
