TheHerbProf.com is a treasure trove of knowledge for those interested in natural healing and herbal remedies. The website is run by Paul Johnston MD. A naturopathic who has not only received extensive education in the field but also has personal experience in self-healing.
Herb cream cheese is a tasty spread that has multiple uses. It’s a smooth blend of cream cheese and herbs, making it an excellent complement to bagels, sandwiches, and crackers. The selection of herbs in the spread can differ, but favorites often include chives, basil, and dill.
Making herb cream cheese at home is easy and allows you to customize the spread to your liking. You can use fresh or dried herbs, and add additional ingredients such as garlic powder or Greek yogurt for a tangier taste. There are many recipes available online that can guide you through the process of making herb cream cheese from scratch. Once you have made the spread, it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week, making it a convenient and tasty addition to your breakfast or snack routine.
Overall, herb cream cheese is a versatile and delicious spread that can be enjoyed in many different ways. Whether you prefer it on a bagel or as a dip for crackers, making your own herb cream cheese at home is a great way to add flavor and variety to your meals.
Ingredients for Herb Cream Cheese
As a food enthusiast, I always love to experiment with different recipes and ingredients. One of my favorite spreads for bagels or crackers is herb cream cheese. The combination of cream cheese and fresh herbs is simply irresistible. In this section, I will share the key ingredients needed to make delicious herb cream cheese.
Fresh herbs
The first and most important ingredient for herb cream cheese is fresh herbs. You can use a mix of herbs such as chives, basil, dill, parsley, and thyme. Fresh herbs add a burst of flavor and aroma to the cream cheese. You can also add other herbs like rosemary, oregano, and lemon zest to enhance the flavor.
Cream cheese
The second key ingredient is cream cheese. You can use any brand of cream cheese, but I prefer to use Philadelphia cream cheese. Make sure the cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing with the herbs. Room temperature cream cheese is easier to mix and results in a smoother texture.
Optional additions (sour cream, parmesan cheese)
If you want to add some tanginess to the cream cheese, you can add sour cream or Greek yogurt. These ingredients also make the cream cheese lighter and fluffier. Another optional addition is grated parmesan cheese. Parmesan cheese adds a nutty flavor and a bit of saltiness to the cream cheese.
The key ingredients for herb cream cheese are fresh herbs, cream cheese, and optional additions like sour cream or parmesan cheese. Experiment with different herbs and seasoning to create your own unique herb cream cheese recipe.
Making Herb Cream Cheese
Herb cream cheese is a versatile spread that can be used in a variety of ways. Whether you’re spreading it on a bagel or using it as a dip for veggies, making your own herb cream cheese is easy and delicious. Here are some tips for making the perfect herb cream cheese.
Combining Ingredients
To make herb cream cheese, you will need cream cheese, herbs, and seasonings. You can use fresh herbs like chives, parsley, and basil, or dried herbs if fresh herbs are not available. Some recipes also call for minced garlic, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. You can also add other flavors like bacon or dried chives for a unique twist.
To combine the ingredients, soften the cream cheese by leaving it out at room temperature or microwaving it for a few seconds. Then, mix in the herbs and seasonings until well combined. For a fluffier, spreadable texture, you can use a hand mixer or food processor to whip the cream cheese.
Tips for Making a Fluffier, Spreadable Texture
If you want a fluffier, spreadable texture for your herb cream cheese, there are a few tips you can follow. First, make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing in the herbs and seasonings. This will make it easier to blend and create a smoother texture.
Second, you can add a small amount of milk or sour cream to the cream cheese to make it more spreadable. Just be careful not to add too much liquid, or it will become too runny.
Finally, you can whip the cream cheese using a hand mixer or food processor. This will incorporate air into the mixture and create a lighter, fluffier texture. Just be careful not to over-whip, or it will become too thin.
Making your own herb cream cheese is easy and delicious. By following these tips, you can create a spread that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you prefer fresh herbs or dried, homemade or store-bought, herb cream cheese is a versatile and flavorful addition to any meal.
Serving and Using Herb Cream Cheese
Herb cream cheese is a versatile spread that can be used in many different ways. Here are a few ideas for how to use and serve it:
As a Spread for Bagels or Toast
One of the most popular ways to enjoy herb cream cheese is as a spread for bagels or toast. Simply spread a generous amount of herb cream cheese on your bagel or toast and enjoy!
As an Appetizer with Crackers
Herb cream cheese also makes a great appetizer when served with crackers. Simply place a dollop of herb cream cheese on top of a cracker and serve. This is a great option for parties or gatherings.
Use in Other Recipes
Herb cream cheese can also be used in a variety of other recipes. Try using it as a spread for sandwiches, as a pasta sauce, or as a seasoning for stuffed mushrooms. You can also use it as a dip for vegetables or fruit.
When using herb cream cheese in other recipes, be sure to refrigerate any leftovers promptly and use within 2 weeks.
Nutrition-wise, herb cream cheese is a good source of calcium and vitamin C. However, it is also high in fat and calories, so be sure to watch your serving size.
Overall, herb cream cheese is a delicious and versatile spread that can be used in many different ways. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a flavorful addition to your favorite recipe, herb cream cheese is a great option to consider.
Before You Go – Herb Cream Cheese Variations
As we get to the end of my article on Herb Cream Cheese, I would like to share some tips and variations that can help you make the most of this delicious and versatile spread.
Tips for Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover Herb Cream Cheese, you can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. This spread is best served chilled, so make sure to refrigerate it promptly after use.
Variations on the Basic Recipe
One of the great things about Herb Cream Cheese is that it can be customized to suit your taste preferences. Here are some ideas for variations on the basic recipe:
- Garlic: Add some minced garlic to the basic recipe for a flavorful twist.
- Garden: Use fresh herbs from your garden instead of dried herbs for a burst of flavor.
- Bacon: Crumble some cooked bacon into the basic recipe for a savory and smoky spread.
- Crostini: Spread Herb Cream Cheese on crostini for a delicious appetizer that’s sure to impress your guests.
As you can see, the possibilities are endless when it comes to Herb Cream Cheese. Whether you’re making it for a party or just for yourself, this spread is sure to be a hit. So head to your local grocery store and pick up some cream cheese and herbs, and start experimenting with your own variations!
References – Herb Cream Cheese
Little Herb Encyclopedia, by Jack Ritchason; N.D., Woodland Publishing Incorporated, 1995
The Ultimate Healing System, Course Manual, Copyright 1985, Don Lepore
Planetary Herbology, Michael Tierra, C.A., N.D., Lotus Press, 1988
Handbook of Medicinal Herbs, by James A. Duke, Pub. CRP Second Edition 2007
The Complete Medicinal Herbal, by Penelope Ody, Published by Dorling Kindersley
Check the Following Articles!
Herbalist Tinctures: The Ultra Guide On Uses and Benefits
Natural Antibiotics for Cats: Top Alternatives Treatment
Natural Remedies for Symptom Relief – Herb for Menopause
Herb Cream Cheese: A Herbalist’s Delight
Herb cream cheese is a delightful way to incorporate the goodness of herbs into your diet. It’s tasty, nutritious, and all-natural!
Let’s explore how this delicious recipe and our home page at theherbprof.com can complement each other!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the ingredients in garlic and herb cream cheese?
Garlic and herb cream cheese typically contains cream cheese, garlic, herbs such as parsley, dill, chives, and thyme, salt, and pepper. Some recipes may also include lemon juice, sour cream, or Greek yogurt.
What is the nutritional information for roasted garlic and herb cream cheese?
The nutritional information for roasted garlic and herb cream cheese can vary depending on the recipe and brand. However, on average, a serving size of 2 tablespoons contains approximately 100-120 calories, 10 grams of fat, 2 grams of carbohydrates, and 2 grams of protein.
What are some recipes that use herbed cream cheese?
Herbed cream cheese is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of recipes. Some popular recipes include herbed cream cheese stuffed mushrooms, herbed cream cheese and smoked salmon bagels, herbed cream cheese stuffed chicken breasts, and herbed cream cheese dip for vegetables or crackers.
Is Boursin considered a type of cream cheese?
Boursin is a type of soft cheese that is similar to cream cheese but has a tangy, garlic and herb flavor. While it is often used as a spread like cream cheese, it is not technically considered a type of cream cheese.
What are some popular herbs used in cream cheese spreads?
Some popular herbs used in cream cheese spreads include chives, dill, parsley, thyme, basil, and rosemary. These herbs can be used alone or in combination to create a variety of flavors.
What are some creative ways to use cream cheese in recipes?
Cream cheese can be used in a variety of sweet and savory recipes. Some creative ways to use cream cheese include using it as a base for dips, spreads, and sauces, incorporating it into baked goods such as cheesecake, using it as a filling for stuffed vegetables or meat, and even adding it to scrambled eggs for a creamy texture.
