If you’re on the lookout for a delicious dip that won’t derail your healthy eating goals, Skinny Pimento Cheese Spread is just what you need. This creamy, cheesy delight is perfect for parties, game days, or even just a snack at home. The best part? It’s lighter than traditional pimento cheese, making it a guilt-free indulgence. Loaded with flavor and texture, this spread is sure to impress your family and friends while keeping your waistline in check.

Why It’s Crowd-Pleasing

Pimento cheese has long been a Southern staple, beloved for its creamy texture and bold flavors. What makes this Skinny Pimento Cheese Spread stand out is its ability to offer everything you love about the classic version without the excess calories. It’s versatile, too! Serve it with fresh veggies, spread it on whole-grain crackers, or use it as a sandwich filling. The combination of creamy cheese, zesty jalapeño, and a hint of spice makes it an instant hit at any gathering.

Ingredient Notes

To achieve the perfect balance of flavors and textures, you’ll need the following ingredients:

2 cups reduced-fat, shredded cheddar cheese – This is the base of your spread, giving it that classic cheesy flavor while being lower in fat.
1 green onion, diced – Adds a mild onion flavor and a pop of color.
1 garlic clove, minced – Provides depth and a savory kick.
8 ounces fat-free cream cheese – Creates a smooth and creamy texture without the calories.
1/2 cup plain, fat-free Greek yogurt – Adds creaminess and a tangy flavor while boosting protein content.
4 ounces diced pimentos, jarred and drained – Brings that signature sweet and slightly smoky flavor.
1 small jalapeño pepper, seeded and minced – Adds a little heat to the spread.
1/4 teaspoon black pepper – Enhances the overall flavor.
Kosher or sea salt, to taste – Essential for balancing out the flavors.
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper – Gives an extra kick; adjust to your spice preference.

Setup & Equipment

Before diving into the cooking process, here’s what you’ll need:

Mixing bowl – For combining all your ingredients.
Spatula or wooden spoon – For mixing.
Measuring cups and spoons – To ensure accurate ingredient measurements.
Knife and cutting board – For dicing the green onion and jalapeño.
Storage container – To keep your Skinny Pimento Cheese Spread fresh in the fridge.

Make Skinny Pimento Cheese Spread: A Simple Method

Creating this Skinny Pimento Cheese Spread is a breeze. Follow these steps for a delicious result:

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by dicing the green onion and mincing the garlic and jalapeño. Make sure to remove the seeds from the jalapeño for a milder flavor, or leave a few in if you like it spicy!

Step 2: Mix the Creamy Base

In a large mixing bowl, combine the fat-free cream cheese and plain Greek yogurt. Use a spatula to mix until the two are well blended and creamy.

Step 3: Add the Cheddar and Pimentos

Fold in the reduced-fat shredded cheddar cheese and the drained diced pimentos. These ingredients provide the classic pimento cheese flavor.

Step 4: Season It Up

Add in the diced green onion, minced garlic, minced jalapeño, black pepper, cayenne pepper, and salt to taste. Mix everything until it’s well combined.

Step 5: Taste and Adjust

Give your spread a taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Want it spicier? Add more cayenne or jalapeño. Prefer it milder? You can skip the jalapeño altogether!

Step 6: Chill and Serve

Transfer the Skinny Pimento Cheese Spread to a storage container and let it chill in the fridge for at least an hour. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Serve with your favorite dippers, and enjoy!

Seasonal Ingredient Swaps

Feel free to personalize your Skinny Pimento Cheese Spread with these seasonal ingredient swaps:

Roasted red peppers instead of pimentos for a smokier flavor.
Chives in place of green onions for a different onion flavor.
Fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for a fresh twist.
Other cheeses like pepper jack or mozzarella for varied textures and flavors.

Frequent Missteps to Avoid

When making Skinny Pimento Cheese Spread, keep these common pitfalls in mind:

Overmixing the spread can lead to a gummy texture. Mix just until combined.
Using full-fat cream cheese instead of fat-free will increase calories significantly.
Forget to drain the pimentos properly! Excess liquid can make the spread too watery.
Not letting the spread chill long enough can mute the flavors. Patience is key!

Storage Pro Tips

To keep your Skinny Pimento Cheese Spread fresh and delicious, consider these storage tips:

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should last up to one week, making it a great make-ahead option for gatherings.

If you need to freeze it, portion the spread into smaller containers. It can be frozen for up to three months, but note that the texture may change slightly upon thawing.

Common Questions

Can I make this pimento cheese spread vegan?

Yes! You can substitute the cream cheese with a vegan cream cheese alternative and use a plant-based yogurt. Just be sure the cheese and yogurt are dairy-free.

What can I serve with Skinny Pimento Cheese Spread?

It pairs perfectly with fresh veggies, crackers, pita chips, or even as a sandwich spread. You could also use it as a topping for baked potatoes or nachos!

How spicy is this spread?

The level of spiciness can be adjusted by modifying the amount of jalapeño and cayenne pepper. Start with less if you prefer a milder flavor, and add more to taste.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! In fact, making it ahead of time allows the flavors to develop even more. Prepare it a day in advance for the best taste.

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Bring It to the Table

Now that you have the recipe for Skinny Pimento Cheese Spread in your arsenal, it’s time to impress your guests! This spread is not just a dip; it’s a conversation starter, a party pleaser, and a delicious addition to any meal. Whether you serve it during a cozy family night or at a lively gathering, it’s bound to be a hit. Enjoy the flavors, share the joy, and don’t forget to relish every bite!