Classic Southern Pimiento Cheese Delight
Experience the nostalgia of summertime gatherings with this classic Southern Pimiento Cheese Spread. Perfect for family reunions, picnics, or casual snacks, this savory spread combines creamy sharp cheddar cheese with sweet pimentos and zesty onion. It evokes memories of warm afternoons filled with laughter, kids splashing in the water, and plates overflowing with homemade treats. Spread it generously on pumpernickel or your favorite bread, or use it as a dip for fresh vegetables and crackers. Ideal for entertaining and beloved by all ages, this recipe pays homage to the traditional flavors that have graced Southern tables for generations.
4
Servings
N/A
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
Diced pimentos
1 (4-ounce jar, do not drain)
Sharp cheddar cheese
16 (ounces, grated or shredded)
Grated onion
1/3 (cup)
Mayonnaise
1/2 (cup)
Salt
1/4 (teaspoon)
Garlic powder
1/8 (teaspoon)
Sugar
1 (teaspoon)
Instructions
1
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the diced pimentos (including the liquid), grated sharp cheddar cheese, grated onion, mayonnaise, salt, garlic powder, and sugar.
2
Using a spatula or wooden spoon, mix the ingredients thoroughly until all components are evenly incorporated.
3
Taste the mixture and adjust seasoning if necessary; feel free to add more salt or garlic powder to suit your preference.
4
Transfer the pimiento cheese spread to a serving bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
5
Serve chilled on pumpernickel bread, your favorite crackers, or fresh vegetable sticks.
6
Enjoy this delightful spread as a crowd-pleasing appetizer or snack at your next gathering!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Classic Southern Pimiento Cheese Delight?
It is a traditional Southern savory spread made with sharp cheddar cheese, pimentos, mayonnaise, and seasonings, often served at picnics and family gatherings.
What are the primary ingredients in this pimiento cheese recipe?
The main ingredients include 16 ounces of sharp cheddar cheese, a 4-ounce jar of diced pimentos, grated onion, mayonnaise, salt, garlic powder, and a teaspoon of sugar.
Should I drain the diced pimentos before adding them to the cheese?
No, the recipe specifies using the diced pimentos including the liquid from the jar to help with flavor and consistency.
What type of cheese is recommended for the best flavor?
Sharp cheddar cheese is recommended to provide the best savory and tangy flavor profile for this classic spread.
How much grated onion should I use?
You should use 1/3 cup of grated onion to provide a zesty kick to the recipe.
Does this pimiento cheese recipe contain sugar?
Yes, it includes 1 teaspoon of sugar to balance the savory and zesty flavors of the cheese and onion.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this is a vegetarian-friendly recipe as it consists of cheese, vegetables, and seasonings.
How many people does this recipe serve?
This recipe is portioned to provide approximately 4 servings.
How should I prepare the cheddar cheese?
The cheese should be grated or shredded before mixing with the other ingredients.
Can I serve the pimiento cheese immediately after mixing?
While you can, it is recommended to refrigerate the spread for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
What is the best way to serve Southern Pimiento Cheese?
It is traditionally served on pumpernickel bread, crackers, or alongside fresh vegetable sticks like celery and carrots.
Can I adjust the seasoning of the spread?
Yes, you should taste the mixture after mixing and add more salt or garlic powder according to your personal preference.
What equipment do I need to make this recipe?
You only need a medium mixing bowl and a spatula or wooden spoon for stirring.
How much mayonnaise is required?
The recipe calls for 1/2 cup of mayonnaise to achieve a creamy texture.
What is the role of garlic powder in this recipe?
Garlic powder adds a subtle depth of savory flavor to the cheese mixture.
Can this spread be used as a dip?
Absolutely, it works perfectly as a dip for crackers and fresh vegetables at parties.
How long should the pimiento cheese be chilled?
It should be chilled in the refrigerator for a minimum of 30 minutes.
What size jar of pimentos is needed?
You will need one 4-ounce jar of diced pimentos.
Is this recipe considered a southern appetizer?
Yes, it is a staple southern appetizer often found at reunions and summer gatherings.
Can I use white cheddar instead of orange cheddar?
Yes, you can use sharp white cheddar if you prefer, though traditional southern versions often use orange sharp cheddar.
What is the texture of this pimiento cheese?
The texture is creamy yet slightly chunky due to the shredded cheese and diced pimentos.
Is this recipe spicy?
As written, it is savory and zesty but not spicy; you can add hot sauce or cayenne if you prefer heat.
How much salt is in the recipe?
The recipe uses 1/4 teaspoon of salt.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, making it a few hours or even a day ahead allows the flavors to develop even further in the refrigerator.
What kind of onion is best for grating?
A yellow or white onion works best for grating to provide a sharp, fresh flavor.
Is there a specific bread pairing recommended?
Pumpernickel bread is specifically highlighted as a great pairing for this spread.
Should the mayonnaise be full-fat?
For the most traditional and creamy result, full-fat mayonnaise is typically used.
What makes this 'Southern' style?
The combination of sharp cheddar, pimentos, and mayonnaise is the classic trio that defines Southern-style pimiento cheese.
Can I use a food processor to mix it?
You can, but using a spatula or spoon as directed keeps the texture of the cheese shreds more distinct.
How should I store any leftovers?
Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep the cheese fresh.