Best 2 Zesty Cheese Spread Recipes

Indulge in the tantalizing world of zesty cheese spread, a culinary delight that elevates any occasion from ordinary to extraordinary. With its vibrant flavors and versatility, this delectable spread has captured the hearts of food enthusiasts worldwide. From creamy and tangy to spicy and bold, the vast array of zesty cheese spread recipes offers endless possibilities to satisfy your taste buds and impress your guests. Whether you seek a simple yet flavorful appetizer or a centerpiece for your next party, embark on a culinary adventure as we explore the delightful realm of zesty cheese spread recipes.

Here are our top 2 tried and tested recipes!

ZESTY/PEPPERY/SWEET-BLUE CHEESE AND DATE SPREAD -- OR BALLS!

Zesty/Peppery/Sweet-Blue Cheese and Date Spread -- or Balls! image

Modified from an Atlanta Journal-Constitution (AJC.com) online What's For Dinner recipe, made famous by Ann Sprague of Smyrna, who got the recipe from neighbor Velinda Warda. ---- NOTE: Serve this zesty spread chilled or at room temperature, or make into balls. Great with apple slices, celery sticks, tortilla chips, and/or crackers. I really like this spread with tortilla chips -- you get zesty, peppery-sweet, and salty!

Provided by KerfuffleUponWincle

Categories Spreads

Time 2h5m

Yield 4 1/4 cups, 60 serving(s)

Number Of Ingredients 9

Ingredients

1 1/2 cups pecans (measured, then toasted and chopped fine)
16 ounces low-fat cream cheese, softened (lower fat Neufchatel suggested)
4 ounces blue cheese (crumbled)
4 ounces sharp cheddar cheese (grated ~ equals 1 cup)
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 large lemon, zest of (save lemon pulp or juice for another purpose)
1/4-1/2 teaspoon freshly grated black pepper
8 ounces chopped dates
1 1/2 cups pecans (if making into balls ~ Toasted and chopped fine) (optional)

Steps:

Measure 1 1/2 cups pecans (or double that amount if making cheese balls) into an large iron skillet, toasting over medium heat, stirring constantly ~ remove from heat and finely chop! (Or, preheat oven to 350 degrees ~ Spread pecans on a baking sheet and toast 5 minutes.).
Set nuts aside; they will be added last!
In a mixing bowl, combine (by hand or using an electric mixer), cream cheese, blue cheese cheddar cheese, salt, lemon zest, and freshly grated black pepper until fluffy!
Stir in dates and 1 1/2 cups toasted pecans.
For easier handling, chill for an hour to firm up, if making into cheese balls. Coat with additional toasted, chopped pecans.
Serve this zesty spread (or balls) chilled, or at room temperature, with apple slices, celery sticks. tortilla chips, and/or crackers.
NOTE: Cooking time is the chill time, although I thought the flavor greatly improved after chilling overnight! The recipe can easily be doubled to serve a larger number of people!

Nutrition Facts : Calories 63, Fat 4.9, SaturatedFat 1.9, Cholesterol 9, Sodium 73.2, Carbohydrate 3.6, Fiber 0.6, Sugar 2.8, Protein 1.9

ZESTY CHEESE SPREAD

Zesty Cheese Spread image

I USUALLY MAKE this spread a day before I plan on serving it, since it needs time for the flavors to meld. But it also keeps well for a few weeks. It's an appetizer, that can be served with snack rye bread or assorted crackers.

Provided by Taste of Home

Categories Appetizers

Time 10m

Yield 1-1/4 cups.

Number Of Ingredients 9

Ingredients

2 teaspoons ground mustard
2 teaspoons hot water
1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup butter, softened
1 tablespoon minced shallot
1 teaspoon capers, drained
1 teaspoon minced fresh parsley
1/2 teaspoon paprika
Assorted crackers

Steps:

In a small bowl, combine mustard and water; let stand for 10 minutes. In a small bowl, beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Beat in the shallot, capers, parsley, paprika and mustard mixture until blended., Transfer to a serving bowl; cover and refrigerate for 4 hours or overnight. Serve with crackers.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 164 calories, Fat 17g fat (11g saturated fat), Cholesterol 49mg cholesterol, Sodium 140mg sodium, Carbohydrate 1g carbohydrate (0 sugars, Fiber 0 fiber), Protein 2g protein.

Tips:

Use High-Quality Ingredients: Start with fresh, flavorful cheeses and herbs for the best taste. Experiment with Different Cheeses: Try a variety of cheeses to find your favorite combination. Cheeses like cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan are popular choices. Add Some Herbs and Spices: Fresh herbs like parsley, chives, and basil add a pop of flavor. Garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika are also great additions. Don't Overmix: Overmixing can make the cheese spread too thick and dense. Mix just until the ingredients are well combined. Chill Before Serving: Chilling the cheese spread allows the flavors to meld and it also makes it easier to spread. Serve with Crackers, Veggies, and Bread: Cheese spread pairs well with a variety of accompaniments. Try serving it with crackers, bread, or sliced vegetables.

Conclusion:

Zesty cheese spread is a versatile and delicious appetizer or snack that can be enjoyed in many different ways. With a few simple ingredients and a little experimentation, you can create a cheese spread that will impress your friends and family. So next time you're looking for a quick and easy appetizer, give one of these recipes a try. You won't be disappointed!