Pimento Cheese Spread: Healthy Or Unhealthy?

is price pimento cheese spread bad for you

Pimento cheese spread is a popular snack in the Southern US, where it is also known as Carolina Caviar or Southern Pate. It is made with a base of cheese, mayonnaise, and sweet peppers, with other ingredients added for flavour and texture. Price's Pimento Cheese Spread is a well-known brand of this product, offering Original, Lite, and Bacon varieties. While some people enjoy the taste of Price's Pimento Cheese Spread, others have given it negative reviews, describing it as tasting like a blend of chemicals. This product also has a short shelf life, so it must be consumed quickly. In this article, we will explore the nutritional value and health implications of consuming Price's Pimento Cheese Spread.

Characteristics Values
Ingredients Real cheddar cheese, pimentos, salad dressing, pimento peppers, mayonnaise, cream cheese, Greek yogurt
Taste Sweet, tangy, peppery, spicy
Texture Creamy, spreadable
Nutrition 168 kcal, 2 g of carbohydrates, 13 g of protein, 12 g of fat, 8 g of saturated fat, 38 mg of cholesterol, 328 mg of sodium, 91 mg of potassium, 1 g of fiber, 1 g of sugar, 499 IU of vitamin A, 5 mg of vitamin C, 313 mg of calcium, 1 mg of iron
Serving suggestions On crackers, sandwiches, nachos, pizza, appetizers, veggies
Product details 7-ounce cup, 12 per case
Customer review One customer review on Amazon mentions that the product tastes like a blend of chemicals

cycheese

Price's Pimento Cheese Spread ingredients

Price's Pimento Cheese Spread is made with real cheddar cheese and pimento peppers, with a sweet and tangy taste of Texas. The spread is available in Original, Lite, Jalapeño, and Southern Style flavours. The Original flavour has 90 calories, 4 grams of carbs, 1 gram of sugar, 7 grams of fat, and 360 milligrams of sodium.

Price's Lite Pimiento Cheese Spread has all the flavour of the Original but with less fat. It can be spread on veggies for a light, refreshing snack or added to a meal for extra flavour.

Price's Bacon Pimiento Cheese Spread is made with real bacon, cheddar cheese, and pimento peppers.

Price's Pimiento Cheese Spread can be served as a snack or a meal, and it goes well with crackers. It can also be used to make sandwiches or appetizers, such as sophisticated, gooey, and spicy nachos.

cycheese

Health benefits of pimento cheese

Pimento cheese is a Southern delicacy that combines cheddar cheese, cream cheese, mayonnaise, pimentos, and various seasonings. While it is a tasty treat, pimento cheese can be high in calories, saturated fats, and sodium. However, moderate consumption and choosing healthier ingredients can help mitigate potential health risks. For those on a ketogenic or low-carb diet, pimento cheese can be a suitable option due to its high-fat and low-carb content.

The key health benefits of pimento cheese come from the pimento peppers themselves. Pimento peppers have a sweet and mild taste, making them a versatile ingredient in various dishes. They are commonly used in Mediterranean and Latin American cuisines, adding a delightful twist to sauces, salads, and stuffed dishes.

One of the standout qualities of pimento peppers is their nutritional value. They are known to have antioxidant properties, which can support overall well-being. Additionally, the peppers contribute to a thriving ecosystem when grown, attracting bees and other beneficial insects.

While the exact health benefits of pimento cheese as a whole may not be extensively researched, it is important to note that it is a high-fat and high-sodium food. As such, it should be consumed in moderation, especially for individuals with cardiovascular concerns or other underlying health conditions.

In summary, pimento cheese can be a flavorful addition to a balanced diet when consumed in moderation and with appropriate portion control. However, for those with specific health concerns, it is always recommended to consult with a healthcare provider or dietitian for personalized advice.

cycheese

Pimento cheese recipes

Pimento cheese is a classic Southern dish, also known as "pâté du Sud" or "pâté of the south". It is a creamy, cheesy, tangy, and peppery dip or spread. While the core ingredients are cheddar cheese, pimento peppers, and mayonnaise, there are many variations on the classic recipe.

Classic Pimento Cheese

This recipe sticks to the traditional ingredients of cheddar cheese, pimento peppers, and mayonnaise. It also includes pickle juice, salt, and pepper for added flavour.

Spicy Pimento Cheese

This recipe includes cayenne pepper, fresh jalapeño pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder for a spicy kick. The jalapeño pepper also adds a light crunch to the texture.

Creamy Pimento Cheese

This recipe adds cream cheese to the mix for a decadent, extra-creamy texture. It also includes mayonnaise, jarred pimentos, and optional jalapeños for spice.

Bacon Pimento Cheese

This recipe includes real bacon, cheddar cheese, and pimento peppers. It is a variation on the classic recipe with a savoury twist.

Pimento cheese is a versatile dish that can be served in many ways. It can be enjoyed as a dip with crackers or vegetables, as a sandwich spread, mixed into sausage balls, or even warmed with fresh veggies and crudités. It can also be used as a topping for burgers, scrambled eggs, or mashed potatoes.

cycheese

Pimento cheese alternatives

Pimento cheese is a classic Southern dish made with cheddar cheese, pimento peppers, and mayonnaise. It is creamy, tangy, and spreadable, and can be used as a dip or a sandwich spread. While it is a beloved staple, some may want to explore alternatives to this traditional dish. Here are some ideas for pimento cheese alternatives:

  • Variations in Ingredients: You can experiment with different ingredients to create unique flavors. For example, try using cream cheese, sour cream, Greek yogurt, or cottage cheese instead of mayonnaise. These substitutions can lend a tangy and creamy texture to the spread. Additionally, consider adding spices like garlic powder, onion powder, or cayenne pepper for a kick of heat. Fresh jalapeños can also be added for a crunchy and spicy twist.
  • Roasted Red Peppers: If you're looking for a substitute for pimento peppers, roasted red bell peppers are an excellent choice. They provide a similar mild pepper flavor and a reddish hue. You could also try sun-dried tomatoes for a different take on the spread.
  • Fire-Roasted Green Chiles: For those who want to spice things up, fire-roasted green chiles are a fantastic alternative to pimento peppers. They add a nice kick to the spread and can be used as a stuffing for sweet and hot peppers.
  • Tex-Mex Pimento Cheese: This variation combines pepper Jack cheese, cumin, garlic, chile powder, and lime juice. It offers a bold and versatile flavor profile that can be used in various dishes, such as sandwiches, burgers, deviled eggs, or jalapeno peppers.
  • Bacon Pimiento Cheese: For bacon lovers, adding bacon to the traditional pimento cheese spread can be a delicious option. The savory flavor of bacon complements the cheddar cheese and pimento peppers, creating an indulgent and satisfying variation.
  • Lite Pimiento Cheese: If you're looking for a lighter option, there are reduced-fat versions of pimento cheese available. These versions have all the flavor of the original but with less fat, making them a healthier alternative.

While pimento cheese is a beloved classic, these alternatives offer exciting variations that can cater to different taste preferences and dietary needs. Whether you're looking for a spicy kick, a lighter option, or simply want to explore new flavors, these suggestions provide a range of options to explore beyond the traditional pimento cheese spread.

Why Does Parmesan Cheese Smell So Bad?

You may want to see also

cycheese

Pimento cheese storage

Pimento cheese is a Southern delicacy that combines creamy cheese with tangy pimentos and various seasonings. It is typically made with a combination of cheeses such as cheddar, cream cheese, and the iconic red pimentos. This mixture gives it a deliciously creamy texture, making it perfect for bagels, burgers, or even straight from the bowl.

When it comes to storing pimento cheese, the shelf life largely depends on its ingredients and storage conditions. Homemade pimento cheese, for example, has a shorter shelf life than store-bought varieties. When stored properly in a refrigerator set at or below 40°F (4°C), homemade pimento cheese can last about 3 to 5 days. On the other hand, store-bought pimento cheese can last 1 to 2 weeks beyond the "Best By" date if unopened and preserved, and 1 week after opening.

To maximize the freshness and safety of pimento cheese, it is important to implement proper storage practices. Pimento cheese should always be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, it is important to regularly check for any signs of spoilage, such as separation or mold. If any of these signs are present, the pimento cheese should not be consumed.

If you are unable to finish your pimento cheese before its expiration date, you can freeze it. However, freezing may alter the texture and taste, making the cheese watery and grainy. Therefore, it is recommended to only use previously frozen pimento cheese in cooked dishes rather than as a spread.

Velveeta Cheese Sauce: Does It Go Bad?

You may want to see also

Frequently asked questions

Price's Pimento Cheese Spread is made with real cheddar cheese, pimentos, and salad dressing.

While the spread does contain cheese, which is high in fat, Price's also offers a Lite version with less fat. Additionally, pimento cheese can be made healthier by substituting Greek yogurt for mayonnaise and adding vegetables such as bell peppers, cucumber, or celery.

Price's Pimento Cheese Spread can be purchased on Amazon.com and FoodserviceDirect Inc.

Price's Pimento Cheese Spread should be refrigerated and has a short shelf life. It is not recommended to freeze the product as freezing affects the texture, making it grainy.

Written by
Reviewed by
Share this post
Print
Did this article help you?

Leave a comment