Description
This Lemon, Cream Cheese and Herb Spread is a bright, tangy, and herbaceous creamy dip perfect for serving with crackers, toasted bread, bagels, or fresh vegetables. Combining softened cream cheese with fresh lemon zest, lemon juice, parsley, chives, and dill creates a refreshing and flavorful spread that can be prepared quickly and chilled for enhanced flavor melding.
Ingredients
Scale
Spread Ingredients
- 7 oz (200g) cream cheese, softened
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: 1 small garlic clove, minced
Instructions
- Prepare Cream Cheese Base: Place the softened cream cheese into a medium mixing bowl to create the creamy foundation of the spread.
- Add Lemon Flavor: Mix in the zest and juice of one lemon thoroughly until the mixture becomes smooth and tangy, enhancing the spread with citrus brightness.
- Incorporate Fresh Herbs: Stir in the chopped fresh parsley, chives, dill, and minced garlic if using, ensuring all ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Blend Ingredients: Mix all ingredients together until well blended, forming a uniform herb and lemon flavored spread.
- Season: Add salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, adjusting seasoning as desired for balanced flavor.
- Chill: Cover and refrigerate the spread for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and intensify.
- Serve: Serve chilled with crackers, toasted bread, bagels, or fresh vegetables for a delicious appetizer or snack.
Notes
- For best results, use fresh herbs to maximize flavor.
- Softening the cream cheese before mixing ensures a smooth texture.
- The garlic is optional and can be omitted for a milder spread.
- Chilling the spread intensifies the flavors and improves the consistency.
- This spread can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Try adding other fresh herbs such as basil or tarragon for variation.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Spread
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
