Cheese spread with garlic

Garlic Cheese Spread - A Simple and Savory Delicacy

Who doesn’t remember the refined and creamy taste of garlic cheese spread? This recipe will not only delight your taste buds but will quickly become a favorite among family and friends. Whether you serve it on a slice of toasted bread as an appetizer during a friends' evening, or as part of a cheese platter, this spread is versatile and full of flavor.

Total preparation time: 20 minutes
Resting time: 2 hours in the fridge
Number of servings: 6-8

Necessary ingredients

- 250 g butter (or margarine for a lighter version)
- 250 g cottage cheese (opt for a fresh, creamy variant)
- 250 g thick sour cream (Creme Fraiche is ideal for a rich texture)
- 2-3 tablespoons finely chopped parsley (or other favorite herbs)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- 2 tablespoons garlic powder (or 5 cloves of fresh garlic, crushed)
- (Optional) 1-2 tablespoons finely chopped shallots

Step by step in preparing the spread

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by taking the butter out of the fridge to soften. It should be at room temperature for easy mixing. Also, ensure that the cottage cheese is fresh and lump-free. If you prefer, you can use a blender for a smooth texture.

2. Mixing the butter and cheese: In a large bowl, add the softened butter and cottage cheese. Use an electric mixer or a fork to combine them into a smooth paste.

3. Adding the sour cream: Continue by incorporating the thick sour cream. This will add creaminess and a rich flavor to your spread. Mix well until you achieve an even composition.

4. Seasoning: Now is the time to add the garlic powder, salt, pepper, and chopped parsley. If you choose to use fresh garlic, crush it well before adding it to the mixture. It is important to adjust the quantities of garlic, salt, and pepper to your taste.

5. Resting in the fridge: Once all the ingredients are well mixed, transfer the spread to an airtight container. Cover it and let it rest in the fridge for at least 2 hours. This step is essential as it allows the flavors to develop and blend perfectly. If you are using garlic powder, it is recommended to let it sit longer to avoid an overpowering taste.

6. Serving: After the spread has rested in the fridge, take it out and gently mix it to refresh it. You can serve it on slices of toasted bread, crackers, or vegetable sticks. A garnish of fresh parsley leaves on top can add a vibrant and appetizing look.

Practical tips

- Shallot version: If you want a sweeter taste, you can add a few tablespoons of chopped shallots. This brings a note of freshness and a pleasant contrast with the cheese and garlic.
- Enhancing flavors: You can experiment with other herbs, such as dill or basil, to customize the recipe to your tastes.
- Storage: The spread keeps well in the fridge for a week. Make sure it is well covered to prevent drying out.

Nutritional benefits

This cheese spread is not only delicious but also nutritious. Cottage cheese is an excellent source of protein and calcium, while garlic has antibacterial and antioxidant properties. Consumed in moderation, it can be part of a balanced diet.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use feta cheese instead of cottage cheese? Yes, feta cheese will add a salty and slightly more intense flavor, but make sure to adjust the amount of salt in the recipe.
- Is this spread vegan? No, but you can try vegan versions using nut butter or soft tofu instead of cheese.
- Can I add other ingredients? Certainly! Chopped olives or bell peppers can add an interesting texture and flavor.

Servings and combinations

This spread pairs perfectly with a refreshing drink, such as a white wine or a fruit cocktail. You can serve it alongside a crispy green salad or as part of a cheese platter, complemented with fresh fruits and roasted nuts.

Personal note

This garlic cheese spread recipe was discovered on a quiet evening when I wanted to prepare something quick and tasty for my friends. It was an immediate hit and has since become part of our culinary traditions. I recommend you experiment and find the perfect combination of flavors that represent you!

Savor every bite and enjoy the moments spent with loved ones!

 Ingredients: - 250g butter/margarine - 250g cottage cheese - 250g thick sour cream (Creme Fraiche) - 2-3 tbsp finely chopped parsley - salt + pepper - 2 tbsp garlic granules or 5 cloves of garlic - optionally 1-2 tbsp chives