Heart-Healthy Classic Southern Pimento Cheese
Creamy, tangy, and downright irresistible, this *Heart-Healthy Classic Southern Pimento Cheese* recipe is a lighter twist on a beloved Southern staple. Made with reduced-fat sharp cheddar, protein-packed non-fat Greek yogurt, and a touch of low-fat mayo, this guilt-free version delivers all the flavor without the excess calories. The addition of sweet, chopped pimentos infuses vibrant color and texture, while a harmonious blend of garlic powder, onion powder, and a hint of cayenne pepper (if you like a little kick) elevates the taste. Perfect as a chilled spread for whole-grain crackers, sandwiches, or veggie sticks, this quick 15-minute recipe is as versatile as it is wholesome. Quick to whip up and perfect for make-ahead snacks, this heart-healthy pimento cheese is sure to become your new go-to for guilt-free indulgence.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 8 ounces reduced-fat sharp cheddar cheese
- 0.5 cup plain non-fat Greek yogurt
- 0.25 cup low-fat mayonnaise
- 4 ounces pimentos, drained and chopped
- 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder
- 0.5 teaspoon onion powder
- 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
- 0.125 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for extra spice)
Instructions
Begin by grating the reduced-fat sharp cheddar cheese if it is not pre-grated. Aim for thin, even strands to ensure smooth blending.
In a mixing bowl, combine the grated cheese, plain non-fat Greek yogurt, and low-fat mayonnaise. Stir together until well mixed and creamy.
Add the drained and chopped pimentos to the cheese mixture. Mixing gently, ensure the pimentos are evenly distributed.
Season the mixture with garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and cayenne pepper if desired. Stir until all ingredients are well incorporated.
Taste the mixture and adjust seasonings according to your preference, keeping in mind the heart-healthy aspects.
Cover the bowl and place it in the refrigerator for at least one hour. This allows the flavors to meld well.
Serve the pimento cheese chilled, spread on whole grain bread, crackers, or as a topping for vegetables.
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
916 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 62.8 g | 81% | |
| Saturated Fat | 30.5 g | 152% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 8.1 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 136 mg | 45% | |
| Sodium | 2470 mg | 107% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 28.0 g | 10% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 2.2 g | 8% | |
| Total Sugars | 11.6 g | ||
| Protein | 72.1 g | 144% | |
| Vitamin D | 1.2 mcg | 6% | |
| Calcium | 1805 mg | 139% | |
| Iron | 1.8 mg | 10% | |
| Potassium | 605 mg | 13% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
