An Old Fashioned Pimento Cheese Recipe For You, Old School Southern As It Gets Parents, bring your boyfriends, fiancees, wives and lovers; pimento cheese is to be made. This adapted-for-cooking recipe can be used for sandwiches, crackers or veggies for dipping or as a topping for burgers and baked potatoes.
The best part of this Old Fashioned Pimento Cheese Recipe is how you end up with a warm, scrumptious flavor from a few essential ingredients. The sharp cheddar adds so much flavor, and the pimento gives it a mild sweetness and a pretty hue. A hint of mustard, garlic powder and black pepper enriches the flavor, striking the ideal creamy-tangy balance.
Serving at a casual family gathering, picnic or just as a snack, the taste of this recipe brings people together. This brown sugar and cinnamon topping is perfect on all things buttery and flakey. From muffins to quick breads, pie and cake, you can make this ahead of time for easy meal prep and feel good you made the fresh homemade version of this southern favorite. It’s an easy, crowd-pleasing choice that never gets old.
Table of Contents
- Old Fashioned Pimento Cheese Recipe: A Timeless Southern Classic
- Why Homemade Old Fashioned Pimento Cheese Recipe is a Great Idea
- Keys for the Perfect Old Fashioned Pimento Cheese Recipe
- Health Benefits of Old Fashioned Pimento Cheese Recipe
- Is Old Fashioned Pimento Cheese Recipe Good for a Keto Regime?
- Weight Loss or Gain?
- Low-Calorie Substitutes for Pimento Cheese: Healthier Versions of a Classic
- Old Fashioned Pimento Cheese Recipe From OoohDelish!
- FAQs about Old Fashioned Pimento Cheese Recipe
- 1. What makes an "Old Fashioned Pimento Cheese Recipe" different from other pimento cheese recipes?
- 2. Can I make a healthier version of the Old Fashioned Pimento Cheese Recipe?
- 3. Can I make the Old Fashioned Pimento Cheese Recipe ahead of time?
- 4. What can I serve with Old Fashioned Pimento Cheese?
- References
Old Fashioned Pimento Cheese Recipe: A Timeless Southern Classic
As old as over 100 years back, Old Fashion Pimento Cheese Recipe has adopted a legacy of Southern cuisine. Pimento cheese, commonly dubbed the “Caviar of the South,” is thought to have first appeared in the early 1900s when pimentos, a variety of mild red pepper, gained popularity in the Eton. (The mixture of sharp cheddar cheese, creamy mayonnaise and tangy pimentos became a fixture in Southern kitchens, pronto.) Over time, various regional variations have emerged, but the core ingredients have remained unchanged. This simple yet flavorful spread perfectly represents Southern comfort food and has been passed down through generations.
Why Homemade Old Fashioned Pimento Cheese Recipe is a Great Idea
Homemade Old Fashioned Pimento Cheese Recipe This recipe is super duper simple, and you have control over the quality of ingredients. Pimento cheese is homemade and better than anything at the store. It usually has preservatives and artificial ingredients. You can take this traditional recipe to new heights With some quality cheddar cheese, actual mayonnaise, and pickled recent pimentos.
Also, homemade pimento cheese is cost-effective, and you can make it your own. You can control the spice, add more or less mayo, and add other seasonings, like garlic powder or a touch of hot sauce. This way, you can be assured the most authentic taste pack without superfluous add-ins.
Keys for the Perfect Old Fashioned Pimento Cheese Recipe
But here are some tips to ensure your Old Fashioned Pimento Cheese Recipe is right. The first would be making sure you’re using a sharp, high-quality cheddar cheese; it lends a strong, rich flavor to the spread. Grate the cheese yourself for the best texture; pre-shredded cheese can have extras that mess with the consistency and taste.
The mayonnaise should be creamy and smooth ā homemade mayo can be subbed in for a richer taste, but store-bought is fine. The usually jarred pimentos must be well drained to prevent watery spread. Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some mustard or Worcestershire sauce for added flavor. Lastly, refrigerate the pimento cheese for at least an hour to melt the flavors.
Health Benefits of Old Fashioned Pimento Cheese Recipe
Indulgent Old Fashioned Pimento Cheese Recipe Also Has Some Health Benefits The primary ingredients ā cheddar cheese and pimentos ā provide protein, calcium and vitamin A, and pimentos ā the featured ingredient in the recipe ā supply a wealth of antioxidants, including vitamin C and beta-carotene, that help boost immune function and skin health. Adding mayonnaise gives healthy fats, but a light mayo can decrease the calorie count. If you make the spread with full-fat cheese and mayo, be aware that it can be higher in fat and calories.
Hereās a detailed nutritional breakdown for the Old Fashioned Pimento Cheese Recipe (per 2-tablespoon serving):
Ingredient | Amount | Health Benefit |
---|---|---|
Cheddar Cheese | 1 oz (28g) | High in calcium and protein, supports bone health. |
Pimentos | 1 tbsp (15g) | Rich in antioxidants, including vitamin C and carotenoids. |
Mayonnaise | 1 tbsp (15g) | Provides healthy fats (omega-3s) and supports joint health. |
Garlic Powder | 1/4 tsp | Contains compounds that support heart health. |
Is Old Fashioned Pimento Cheese Recipe Good for a Keto Regime?
Yes! Old Fashioned Pimento Cheese Recipe for Keto Itās naturally low in carbs, primarily because of the recipe’s lack of grains and sugars. Mayonnaise and cheese contain healthy fats that are such a great source of energy on a keto diet, and the protein content helps support your muscle maintenance. If you are on an all-out keto diet, choose a mayonnaise made with avocado or olive oil to ensure the highest quality fats.
Weight Loss or Gain?
Pimento cheese spread is an old-fashioned recipe that is gainfully high in calories with a spread of rich cheese of high-calorie and mayonnaise. And while it can certainly be included in moderation on a healthy diet, it’s not a food you can eat all you want, and is not a weight-loss food. While not the best, it can be a satisfying snack that wards off hunger, so eating in smaller quantities is a good option.
For weight loss seekers, mind portion sizes and pair with fresh veggies or whole-grain crackers to boost fiber content. Conversely, suppose you’re attempting to gain weight. In that case, pimento cheese is a calorie-rich food that can contribute to such an endeavor if eaten regularly or served as a more significant component of a meal.
Low-Calorie Substitutes for Pimento Cheese: Healthier Versions of a Classic
Pimento cheese is delicious, but its rich ingredients, including full-fat mayonnaise and cheddar cheese, can pack a calorie punch. If you want to eat pimento cheese but want a lighter version, there are some low-calorie cheese swapouts to make healthier versions without losing flavor. We’ll show you how to replace full-fat mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or low-fat mayo, swap in lighter cheeses like reduced-fat cheddar or cottage cheese, and add flavorings like garlic or mustard for extra zing. These healthier alternatives allow you to enjoy your favorite Southern spread while staying mindful of your calorie intake. It is a perfect option for Weight Watchers or anyone looking to eat a little lighter.
Old Fashioned Pimento Cheese Recipe From OoohDelish!
Old Fashioned Pimento Cheese Recipe
Equipment
- Grater (for shredding cheese)
- Mixing bowl
- Spoon or spatula (for stirring)
- Measuring spoons
- Knife (for chopping pimentos, if needed)
- Airtight container (for storing)
Ingredients
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese freshly grated
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup pimentos drained and chopped
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard optional for extra flavor
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper optional for a little heat
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- For the Cheese: First, you want to grate the sharp cheddar. For the best texture and flavor, grate cheese as you go.
- Combine the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, mix the grated cheese, mayonnaise, and chopped pimentos. Stir until well combined.
- Season: Stir in the Dijon mustard (if using), garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt and pepper. Make sure the spices are evenly distributed and well incorporated.
- Adjust Consistency: If the pimento cheese is too thick, add a bit more mayonnaise, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach the consistency you prefer.
- Chill: You can refrigerate the pimento cheese for 1 hour (or more) before serving for the best flavor.
- Serve: As a spread on crackers, in sandwiches, or as a dip with some veggies.
Notes
Feel free to add a bit of hot sauce or jalapeƱos if you prefer a spicier kick.
Store leftover pimento cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5-7 days.
This recipe can also be made ahead and refrigerated overnight for a deeper flavor.
FAQs about Old Fashioned Pimento Cheese Recipe
1. What makes an “Old Fashioned Pimento Cheese Recipe” different from other pimento cheese recipes?
- A classic Pimento Cheese Recipe usually adheres to the traditional, simple ingredients: sharp cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, and pimentos. The difference in taste is that it is all good, has a nostalgic flavor, and has no unnecessary preservatives or fancy ingredients. The incredible, creamy depth comes from using high-quality, aged cheddar cheese, and the rock-solid seasoning is fairly classic Southern fare, indicative of this once-humble crowd favorite. Unlike some recent recipes that might include additional ingredients such as cream cheese or sour cream, the Old Fashioned version focuses on the purity and simplicity of the basics.
2. Can I make a healthier version of the Old Fashioned Pimento Cheese Recipe?
- You can lighten up the Old Fashioned Pimento Cheese Recipe (it’s just a few swaps!). Use reduced-fat mayonnaise or replace it with Greek yogurt to reduce calories and fat while keeping the creaminess. A lighter version of cheddar cheese can also work, or try other styles with softer flavors, such as part-skim mozzarella. Seasoning with fresh herbs like chives or parsley can kick up the flavor without adding calories. This way, you can enjoy the classic taste while making it healthier.
3. Can I make the Old Fashioned Pimento Cheese Recipe ahead of time?
- Absolutely! The Old Fashioned Pimento Cheese Recipe tastes even better after iterators (or overnight) to meld. To prep ahead, mix up the pimento cheese, cover it, and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. In the fridge, the spread is good for 5-7 days. Just stir it up before you serve it to refresh the texture. This makes it perfect for meal prepping, picnics, or gatherings!
4. What can I serve with Old Fashioned Pimento Cheese?
- There are so many ways to enjoy Old Fashioned Pimento Cheese! It’s delicious on crackers, fresh veggies (celery, cucumbers, bell peppers) or toasted bread. You can also spread it on sandwiches or burgers or drape it over chips as a dip. Or, for a twist, use it as a filler for stuffed jalapeƱos, a topping for baked potatoes or mix it with scrambled eggs for a cheesy breakfast treat. The possibilities are endless, and it’s a great crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
At OoohDelish!, weāre all about bringing the most delicious, mouthwatering recipes straight to your kitchen, and nothing says comfort like an Old Fashioned Pimento Cheese Recipe! Whether youāre spreading it on crackers, piling it on a sandwich, or just eating it straight from the bowl (we wonāt judge!), this Southern classic never disappoints. But we want to knowāwhatās your twist on pimento cheese? Do you like it extra cheesy, or maybe add a spicy kick with some jalapeƱos? Drop a comment below and let us know how you enjoy this creamy, tangy spread. Weād love to hear your secret ingredients and creative ideasāand who knows, you might just inspire the next big OoohDelish recipe!
References
Is Cheese Bad for You? Benefits, Risks, Nutrition Facts
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