If you're a fan of creamy, tangy pimento cheese, you're in for a treat. Just one cubic inch of this delicious spread contains approximately 68 calories, making it a tasty and satisfying snack or ingredient for your favorite recipes.

In addition to its delectable flavor, pimento cheese also contains key nutrients that contribute to a balanced and healthy diet. A single serving of pimento cheese provides about 10% of your recommended daily intake of calcium and 9% of your daily protein needs.

In this article, we'll delve into the health benefits of pimento cheese, explore its various uses, and discover why it's become a beloved staple in Southern cuisine.

Calorie Count

As previously mentioned, one cubic inch of pimento cheese contains around 68 calories. While this may seem high for a small portion, it's important to remember that this spread is quite versatile, and can be used in a variety of dishes to add flavor and substance without adding too many calories.

Key Nutrients

Aside from its delicious taste, pimento cheese also provides several important nutrients that are essential to a healthy diet. For example, a single serving typically contains around 100mg of calcium, which is beneficial for maintaining strong bones and teeth. Pimento cheese also contains around 4g of protein per serving, which is necessary for building and repairing tissues throughout the body.

Health Benefits

In addition to its nutritional value, pimento cheese has several health benefits that make it a great addition to any diet. For example, the cheese and peppers in pimento cheese contain compounds that have been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce the risk of chronic disease. Moreover, the probiotics in cheese are beneficial for gut health, and can help improve digestion and boost immunity.

Serving Size

While the exact serving size of pimento cheese may vary depending on how it's used, a general guideline is about one to two tablespoons. This amount provides enough flavor and substance without adding too many extra calories or fat to your meal.

Ingredients

To make your own pimento cheese, you'll need a few key ingredients, including shredded cheddar cheese, diced pimentos, mayonnaise, cream cheese, and a few spices like garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper. While the exact recipe may vary from person to person, these ingredients generally form the basis of this popular Southern spread.

Preparation Time

Depending on your recipe and method of preparation, making pimento cheese can take anywhere from 10 minutes to an hour. However, most recipes can be prepared in under 30 minutes, making it a quick and easy option for those who want to add some extra flavor to their meals.

Storage Suggestions

Pimento cheese can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. However, if you're using fresh ingredients like cream cheese or grated cheese, it's best to consume it within a few days to ensure maximum freshness and flavor.

Taste Profile

Pimento cheese is known for its creamy, tangy flavor and slightly chunky texture. The cheddar cheese provides a sharp, slightly salty taste, while the diced pimentos add a sweet, slightly smoky flavor to the spread. Depending on the additional spices and seasonings used in the recipe, pimento cheese can also have a slightly spicy or garlicky taste.

Pairings

Pimento cheese pairs well with a variety of foods, including crackers, toast, sliced vegetables, and even fried chicken. It's also a great addition to sandwiches, burgers, and wraps, and can be used as a dip for chips or raw veggies. For a Southern twist, try adding pimento cheese to grits, macaroni and cheese, or even deviled eggs.

Consumer Reviews

Fans of pimento cheese rave about its creamy, tangy flavor and versatility. Many people love using it as a spread for sandwiches and burgers, while others enjoy it as a dip for chips or vegetables. Some people even use it as a stuffing for jalapeno peppers or chicken breasts. Whatever your preferred method of consumption, it's clear that pimento cheese is a beloved Southern staple that offers both delicious flavor and key nutrients for a healthy diet.