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Garden Vegetable Spread Recipe

Garden Vegetable Spread Recipe

This Garden Vegetable Spread Recipe is the freshest way to add a burst of flavor to your snacks. It features creamy cheese mixed with crunchy peppers, carrots, and garden-fresh herbs.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Course Appetizer / Breakfast Spread
Cuisine American Healthy
Servings 12
Calories 85 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 16 oz 450g cream cheese, softened to room temperature
  • 1/2 cup Greek yogurt plain and unsweetened
  • 1/2 cup finely diced red bell pepper
  • 1/2 cup finely diced orange bell pepper
  • 1/4 cup grated carrots squeezed dry
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped green onions scallions
  • 2 tablespoons fresh dill finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley finely chopped
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon cracked black pepper

Instructions
 

Soften the Cream Cheese

  • Place the cream cheese on your kitchen counter for about an hour before you start mixing. Soft cream cheese is much easier to whip and creates a perfectly smooth and creamy texture.

Prep the Vegetables

  • Wash all your vegetables thoroughly under cold water to remove any garden dirt or debris. Finely dice the bell peppers and green onions until they are the size of small peas.

Grate the Carrots

  • Use your vegetable peeler to remove the outer skin of the carrot, then use a box grater. Squeeze the grated carrots in a paper towel to remove any excess moisture before mixing.

Whip the Base

  • In your large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and the plain Greek yogurt. Use your electric mixer to beat them together until the mixture is light, airy, and fluffy.

Add the Seasonings

  • Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, sea salt, and black pepper into the creamy cheese base. Mix well so the spices are spread evenly throughout the entire bowl of cream cheese.

Fold in the Herbs

  • Add the chopped fresh dill and parsley to the bowl to give the spread a bright green color. Fresh herbs provide a much stronger and more refreshing flavor than dried herbs for this recipe.

Add the Vegetables

  • Gently fold in the diced bell peppers, green onions, and the dried grated carrots using a spatula. Mixing by hand ensures the vegetables stay crunchy and do not turn the spread watery.

Check the Consistency

  • If the spread feels too thick, you can add one extra tablespoon of Greek yogurt to soften it. It should be easy for you to spread onto a soft piece of bread.

Chill the Spread

  • Transfer the garden spread into your glass jar and cover it with a tight lid. Let it chill in the refrigerator for at least one hour to allow the flavors to blend.

Garnish and Serve

  • Give the spread a quick stir before serving it to your guests or family. Add a tiny sprig of fresh dill on top to make it look beautiful and very appetizing.

Notes

  • Always dry your vegetables after dicing to keep the spread thick and very creamy.
  • Add a tablespoon of prepared horseradish if you want a spicy and tangy kick.
  • Use a low-fat cream cheese to make a lighter version of this garden-fresh recipe.
  • Try adding finely chopped radishes for a peppery crunch and a bright pink color.
  • If you do not have fresh herbs, use one teaspoon of dried herbs instead.
  • Mix in some shredded sharp cheddar cheese for a bolder and more savory flavor profile.
Keyword Garden Vegetable Spread Recipe