Are you a cheese lover always looking for new ways to incorporate cheese into your meals? Look no further than pimiento cheese spread! At just 120 calories for a 2 tbsp (30 g) serving, this cheesy spread is a delicious and convenient snack option.

Pimiento cheese spread is a blend of shredded cheese, mayo, pimientos, and spices, resulting in a tangy and slightly spicy flavor. The nutritional information may vary depending on the type of cheese and mayo used, so be sure to check labels if you're monitoring your calorie intake.

In this article, we'll explore everything you need to know about pimiento cheese spread, including its ingredients, how it's made, its versatility in recipes, health considerations, and serving suggestions.

What is Pimiento Cheese Spread?

Pimiento cheese spread is a Southern comfort food staple that's made by combining shredded cheddar cheese, mayo, chopped pimientos, and a variety of seasonings. The resulting spread is creamy, tangy, and slightly sweet, and is often used as a dip, sandwich filling, or topping. The origins of pimiento cheese spread are unclear, but its popularity began to soar in the early 20th century. It's now a beloved dish across the South, with many families passing their own secret recipes down through generations.

Calories Count in Pimiento Cheese Spread

A 2 tbsp (30 g) serving of pimiento cheese spread contains approximately 120 calories. However, this may vary depending on the type of cheese and mayo used. If you're looking to make a healthier version of pimiento cheese spread, consider swapping out full-fat cheese and mayo for reduced-fat options, or using greek yogurt as a mayo substitute.

Pimiento Cheese Spread: A Convenient Snack for Cheese Lovers

Pimiento cheese spread is a quick and easy snack option for cheese lovers. Simply spread it on crackers or celery sticks for a delicious and satisfying snack. It's also a great addition to lunch boxes or picnic baskets. For a more indulgent snack, try heating up pimiento cheese spread and serving it as a dip with tortilla chips or potato wedges.

The Ingredients in Pimiento Cheese Spread

Pimiento cheese spread typically contains just a few simple ingredients, including shredded cheddar cheese, mayo, chopped pimientos, and a variety of seasonings. Some recipes may call for additional ingredients, such as onion powder, garlic powder, or Worcestershire sauce. When purchasing ingredients, be sure to read labels carefully to ensure that the cheese and mayo you’re choosing are free of added sugars, artificial colors, and other additives. You can also experiment with different types of cheese, such as pepper jack or gouda, to create unique flavor profiles.

Pimiento Cheese Spread: How it is Made?

Making pimiento cheese spread is easy and can be customized to your liking. To get started, you'll need shredded cheese, mayo, chopped pimientos, and seasonings. Here's a basic recipe to try: - Mix 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, 1/2 cup mayo, 1/4 cup chopped pimientos, and 1 tsp each of garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika in a large bowl. - Stir until well combined and creamy. Adjust seasonings to taste, and serve immediately or store in an airtight container for up to a week.

Pimiento Cheese Spread: A Versatile Ingredient for Recipes

Pimiento cheese spread is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of recipes. Here are a few ideas to get you started: - Spread it on bread or crackers as a sandwich filling or snack. - Mix it into scrambled eggs for a cheesy and flavorful breakfast.

Is Pimiento Cheese Spread Healthy?

Pimiento cheese spread can be a healthy snack option when enjoyed in moderation. It contains protein and calcium from the cheese, and the pimientos provide antioxidants and vitamins C and A. However, it's important to be mindful of portion sizes and choose healthier ingredient options when possible, such as reduced-fat cheese and mayo or greek yogurt as a mayo substitute. Like all foods, pimiento cheese spread should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Pimiento Cheese Spread: A Delicious Addition to Sandwiches

One of the most popular ways to enjoy pimiento cheese spread is as a sandwich filling. Simply spread it on bread and add your favorite toppings, such as lettuce, tomato, bacon, or avocado. You can also experiment with different breads, such as ciabatta or sourdough, to create unique flavor combinations. For a fancier sandwich, try adding grilled chicken or shrimp, or using pimiento cheese as a spread on a burger instead of traditional mayo or ketchup.

Pimiento Cheese Spread: A Perfect Party Appetizer

Pimiento cheese spread is a great choice for a party appetizer, as it can be made ahead of time and served at room temperature. Spread it on crackers, toast points, or crostini for a delicious and crowd-pleasing snack. To add some variety, try mixing in other ingredients, such as chopped bacon, jalapenos, or sun-dried tomatoes.

How to Store Pimiento Cheese Spread Safely?

To keep pimiento cheese spread fresh and safe to eat, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should stay fresh for up to a week. If you're making a large batch, consider storing it in individual servings to make it easy to grab and go.