Blue Cheese Spread: A Delicious, Creamy Condiment Explained

what is blue cheese spread

Blue cheese spread is a delicious and easy-to-make appetiser or snack. It is made with blue cheese, walnuts, and soft cream cheese, and seasoned with salt and pepper. The spread is perfect for a party, tapas, or game night, and can be served with crackers, crudites, celery, apple, and pear slices. Blue cheese is aged with cultures of the Penicillium mould and can be made with cow, goat, or sheep's milk. The best blue cheeses come from Europe, with France, Great Britain, Italy, and Germany leading the world's production.

Characteristics Values
Ingredients Blue cheese, cream cheese, walnuts, salt, pepper, chives, pecans, parsley, olive oil, crackers, crudites, celery, apples, pears, tomatoes, basil, breadsticks, chicken, burgers, sandwiches, wraps
Preparation Combine ingredients in a bowl and stir or blend until smooth, soft, and spreadable. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
Serving Size 2 tablespoons
Calories 112 kcal or 117 kcal
Carbohydrates 1g or 2g
Protein 3g or 4g
Fat 10g or 11g
Saturated Fat 6g or 5g
Polyunsaturated Fat 3g
Monounsaturated Fat 2g or 1g
Cholesterol 32mg or 21mg
Sodium 229mg or 195mg
Sugar 1g
Vitamin A 240 IU
Vitamin C 1mg
Calcium 77mg
Iron 1mg

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Blue cheese spread recipes

Blue cheese spread is a versatile dip that can be used in a variety of dishes. It can be served as an appetizer with crackers, crudites, or toasted pecans, or as a condiment for burgers, sandwiches, and wraps. Blue cheese is often one of the most expensive cheeses per pound, but you don't have to go overboard with the most expensive type for a blue cheese spread. Simply find a locally made blue cheese that won't break your bank but will still give your spread that delicious sharp and tangy flavor.

Basic Blue Cheese Spread

This recipe is simple and quick to make. All you need are two ingredients: cream cheese and a creamy blue cheese such as Roquefort or Gorgonzola. Simply pulse the cream cheese in a food processor until smooth, then add the blue cheese and process until fully combined. If needed, pulse in water, one teaspoon at a time, to reach a spreadable consistency. Season with salt and pepper and serve with crackers, crudites, or toasted pecans.

Blue Cheese Spread with Herbs

This recipe is similar to the basic recipe but includes the addition of fresh herbs like parsley and chives. Simply combine the cream cheese, blue cheese, and herbs in a large bowl and blend well with a wooden spoon. Press the mixture into a ramekin or small bowl and serve immediately or cover and refrigerate until ready.

Blue Cheese Spread with Smoked Ham and Fig Preserve

This recipe takes a more creative approach to the traditional blue cheese spread. It can be used as a sandwich filling along with cold, smoky cold cuts and fruit jams, such as smoked ham and fig preserve. This combination of sweet and savory flavors is sure to delight your taste buds.

Blue cheese spread is a versatile and delicious addition to any meal. With these simple recipes, you can easily make your own at home and experiment with different ingredients to find your favorite combination.

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Blue cheese spread uses

Blue cheese spread is a versatile dip that can be used in a variety of ways. It is simple to make and can be served as an appetizer or snack. The spread is typically made with a base of blue cheese, such as Gorgonzola or Roquefort, and cream cheese to create a smooth and spreadable consistency. It can also be seasoned with fresh herbs like parsley, chives, and Worcestershire sauce, and thickened with sour cream.

One of the most popular ways to use blue cheese spread is as a dip for crackers, crudites, or vegetables such as carrots, celery, and baby carrots. It can also be served with toasted pecans, apple and pear slices, or even bagel chips. The spread is an excellent addition to a cheese board and can be used as a dipping sauce for Buffalo wings, chicken strips, or chicken wings.

Blue cheese spread is also commonly used in sandwiches and wraps. It can be paired with cold, smokey cold cuts and fruit jams, such as smoked ham and fig preserve. The spread adds a tangy and sharp flavor to the sandwich, making it a unique and tasty option.

Additionally, blue cheese spread can be used as a condiment for burgers or on top of breadsticks. It can be a great way to add some extra flavor to a meal and is perfect for game nights, BBQ gatherings, or quick lunches during the workweek. With its distinct flavor and versatility, blue cheese spread is a delicious and simple way to elevate your appetizers, snacks, or meals.

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Blue cheese spread storage

Blue cheese spread is a tangy and sharp-flavoured dip made with blue cheese, cream cheese, and fresh herbs like chives and parsley. It is a versatile dish that can be served as a dip with crackers, crudites, or chicken wings, or as a spread on sandwiches, burgers, and wraps.

Blue cheese spread should be stored in the fridge, covered, until you are ready to serve it. It can be kept in the refrigerator for three to four days. To store blue cheese spread for longer, it may be possible to freeze it in an airtight container, although this method is untested.

When storing blue cheese spread, it is important to avoid using plastic wrap or containers that are too airtight. This is because blue cheese is delicate and susceptible to oxidising and losing surface moisture. Plastic wrap can trap moisture, leading to the growth of unwanted bacteria and mould, and can also trap ammonia, which will destroy the flavour of the cheese. Instead, opt for reusable containers that allow the cheese to breathe, such as a lidded glass container with the lid slightly ajar, or a clay-based product like the Cheese Grotto, which self-regulates humidity and allows for gentle air circulation.

If you are storing multiple types of cheese, it is important to prevent the spread of mould between them. Leave one inch of space between different cheeses to allow each to create its own micro-climate.

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Blue cheese spread nutrition

Blue cheese spread is a versatile dip that can be served with a variety of foods, including crackers, celery, apples, chicken wings, sandwiches, and vegetables. It is typically made with a base of cream cheese and blue cheese, with various mix-ins like walnuts, chives, parsley, and shallots. This spread is simple to prepare and can be made at home, offering a tangy and bold flavour.

Now, let's delve into the nutritional aspects of blue cheese spread:

Calories and Macronutrients: Blue cheese spread is relatively high in calories and fat due to the presence of cream cheese and blue cheese. A serving size of two tablespoons (approximately 28 grams) contains about 90 calories and 7 grams of fat, including 5 grams of saturated fat. However, the fat content can vary depending on the specific recipe and the amount of cream cheese and blue cheese used. For example, another recipe's serving size of two tablespoons has 112 calories and 10 grams of fat, with 6 grams being saturated fat.

Carbohydrates: The carbohydrate content is generally low in blue cheese spread. One recipe indicates 2 grams of total carbohydrates per serving, while another shows only 1 gram. The sugar content is also minimal, with some recipes showing 1 gram of sugar per serving and others with no added sugars.

Protein: Blue cheese spread provides a small amount of protein. A serving of two tablespoons can offer around 4 grams of protein, contributing to your daily protein intake.

Vitamins and Minerals: Blue cheese spread contains several vitamins and minerals, although the amounts may vary based on the specific recipe and ingredients used. Some of the notable vitamins and minerals include calcium, iron, vitamin D, potassium, and sodium. For example, a serving of two tablespoons can provide 8% of your daily value of calcium and 9% of your daily value of vitamin D.

Cholesterol: The cholesterol content in blue cheese spread is moderate. A serving of two tablespoons can contain around 25 milligrams of cholesterol, which equates to 8% of your daily value. However, cholesterol levels can differ depending on the specific ingredients and amounts used in the recipe.

It is important to note that the nutritional information provided may vary depending on the specific recipe, serving size, and ingredients used. The values mentioned above are based on the available data from different sources, and they should be considered estimates. Additionally, blue cheese spread is generally high in fat and sodium, so it should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Creating the Perfect Blue Cheese

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Blue cheese spread serving suggestions

Blue cheese spread is a versatile dish that can be served in a variety of ways. It is a perfect appetizer or snack for any gathering and can be easily prepared ahead of time. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your next meal or party:

Crackers and Crudités

A classic and simple way to serve blue cheese spread is with crackers and crudités. The crispness of crackers or breadsticks provides a delightful contrast to the creamy spread, while crudités such as carrots, celery, or endive spears offer a refreshing crunch. This combination is perfect for those who enjoy their blue cheese spread in a more traditional manner.

Sandwiches and Wraps

For a heartier option, use blue cheese spread as a condiment in sandwiches or wraps. Try it with cold, smoky meat slices and fruit jams, such as smoked ham and fig preserves, for an innovative flavour combination. You can also experiment with fresh herbs, such as basil, or add a slice of tomato for a refreshing twist. The spread's tanginess will complement the fillings and elevate your sandwich experience.

Dipping Sauce

Blue cheese spread also makes an excellent thicker dipping sauce for a variety of foods. Try it with Buffalo wings, chicken strips, or vegetable dippers like carrots, celery, or crudités. The creaminess of the spread pairs perfectly with the spiciness of the wings or the crispness of the vegetables. It can also be a tasty addition to burgers or used as a dip for breadsticks.

Fruit and Nuts

For a sweeter take on blue cheese spread, serve it with apple or pear slices. The tanginess of the blue cheese pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the fruit. You can also add walnuts or pecans to the spread itself or as a topping for some added crunch and flavour. This combination makes for an elegant and unexpected appetizer or dessert.

Frequently asked questions

Blue cheese spread is an easy-to-make appetizer or snack made with blue cheese and cream cheese. It is a versatile dish that can be served with crackers, crudites, chicken wings, or even as a sandwich spread.

Any type of blue cheese will work for a blue cheese spread. Some common types of blue cheese include Gorgonzola, Roquefort, and Havarti.

In addition to blue cheese and cream cheese, you can add walnuts, salt, pepper, chives, and fresh herbs like parsley and chives.

To make a blue cheese spread, simply combine all the ingredients in a bowl and blend well. You can use a wooden spoon or a food processor to get a smooth, spreadable consistency.

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