Savory Pesto Sun-Dried Tomato Cheese Spread
Elevate your appetizer game with this Savory Pesto Sun-Dried Tomato Cheese Spread, inspired by my aunt’s incredible homemade pesto. This delightful blend features the richness of cream cheese and goat cheese, combined with aromatic pesto and sun-dried tomatoes, creating a symphony of flavors that's absolutely irresistible. Whether you're hosting a wine night or gathering with friends, this spread is versatile and pairs beautifully with an array of crackers, crostini, or fresh veggies. Not a goat cheese fan? No problem! You can easily substitute it with more cream cheese or feta for a refreshing twist. With its ease of preparation and rich flavor, this spread is bound to become a staple at your gatherings. Remember, the longer it chills, the more the flavors meld together, making this a make-ahead favorite.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
5
Ingredients
Ingredients
pesto sauce
1 cup (prepared)
cream cheese
8 ounces (softened)
goat cheese
4 ounces (softened)
sun-dried tomatoes
1/4 cup (thinly sliced, oil packed)
walnuts
1/4 cup (finely chopped)
Instructions
1
In a medium bowl, combine the cream cheese and goat cheese. Use a hand mixer or a spatula to blend them together until smooth and creamy.
2
Gradually add in the pesto sauce and the finely sliced sun-dried tomatoes. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
3
Transfer the mixture into a serving dish or shape it into a rectangle on a serving platter.
4
Sprinkle the finely chopped walnuts evenly over the top for added texture and flavor.
5
Cover the spread with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, allowing the flavors to deepen and meld. For best results, chill overnight.
6
Serve the chilled spread with crackers, bread, or fresh vegetables, and enjoy the harmonious flavors!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Savory Pesto Sun-Dried Tomato Cheese Spread?
It is a savory appetizer featuring a blend of cream cheese, goat cheese, aromatic pesto, and sun-dried tomatoes.
What ingredients are needed for this spread?
The main ingredients are pesto sauce, cream cheese, goat cheese, oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes, and walnuts.
What kind of cheese is used in this recipe?
This recipe uses 8 ounces of softened cream cheese and 4 ounces of softened goat cheese.
Can I substitute the goat cheese?
Yes, you can substitute it with more cream cheese or feta if you are not a fan of goat cheese.
How much pesto sauce is required?
The recipe calls for 1 cup of prepared pesto sauce.
How should I prepare the sun-dried tomatoes?
You should use 1/4 cup of sun-dried tomatoes that are oil-packed and thinly sliced.
What type of sun-dried tomatoes should I use?
Oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes are recommended for the best flavor and texture.
What is the purpose of the walnuts?
The finely chopped walnuts are used as a topping to add texture and flavor to the spread.
How many walnuts do I need?
The recipe requires 1/4 cup of finely chopped walnuts.
How do I blend the cheeses?
Use a hand mixer or a spatula to blend the cream cheese and goat cheese together until smooth and creamy.
Can I use a hand mixer for this recipe?
Yes, a hand mixer is an excellent tool for blending the cheeses into a smooth consistency.
How long should I chill the spread?
The spread should be refrigerated for at least 2 hours, but chilling it overnight yields the best results.
Why does the spread need to be refrigerated?
Refrigeration allows the flavors of the pesto, tomatoes, and cheeses to deepen and meld together.
Can I make this spread a day in advance?
Yes, this is a great make-ahead appetizer because the flavor improves the longer it sits in the fridge.
What should I serve with this cheese spread?
It pairs beautifully with crackers, crostini, or fresh bread.
Can I serve this with fresh vegetables?
Yes, this spread is versatile and can be enjoyed with an array of fresh veggies.
How do I shape the spread for serving?
You can transfer the mixture into a serving dish or shape it into a rectangle on a serving platter.
Is this recipe suitable for a wine night?
Absolutely, the rich and savory profile of this spread makes it a perfect pairing for wine.
What inspired this recipe?
The recipe was inspired by the creator's aunt's incredible homemade pesto.
Can I use homemade pesto instead of prepared sauce?
Yes, using high-quality homemade pesto can further elevate the flavor of the dish.
How many ounces of cream cheese are used?
The recipe uses 8 ounces of softened cream cheese.
How many ounces of goat cheese are needed?
The recipe uses 4 ounces of softened goat cheese.
Is this recipe considered easy?
Yes, it is tagged as an easy recipe that is quick to prepare and requires simple steps.
Can I use feta cheese as a substitute?
Yes, feta is suggested as a refreshing twist for those who want an alternative to goat cheese.
What is the first step in preparing this spread?
The first step is to combine the cream cheese and goat cheese in a medium bowl and blend until smooth.
How do I add the pesto and tomatoes to the mix?
Gradually add the pesto sauce and the sliced sun-dried tomatoes to the cheese mixture and mix well.
When should I add the walnuts?
Sprinkle the chopped walnuts evenly over the top once the mixture is in its serving dish.
Does the flavor change over time?
Yes, the longer the spread chills, the more the savory flavors meld together.
Is the spread served cold?
Yes, it should be served chilled for the best eating experience.
Can I use a spatula instead of a mixer?
Yes, a spatula can be used to blend the softened cheeses together until they are creamy.