Spring Herb and Cheese Spread

Name: Spring Herb and Cheese Spread
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup sour cream; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped; 1/4 cup fresh chives, finely chopped; 1/4 cup fresh dill, finely chopped; 1 clove garlic, minced; 1 tsp lemon juice; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: SugarAlchemy Kitchen

I absolutely love making this Spring Herb and Cheese Spread, especially when fresh herbs are in abundance. Combining a variety of herbs with creamy cheese creates a delightful spread that can elevate any gathering. It’s incredibly easy to whip up and perfect for slathering on crackers, bread, or even fresh veggies. The bright flavors and creamy texture complement each other beautifully, and it’s a great way to celebrate the vibrant tastes of spring. Trust me, your guests will be asking for the recipe!

Created by

Rafael

Last updated on 2026-02-05T16:09:28.228Z

When I first made this Spring Herb and Cheese Spread, I was thrilled at how quickly it came together. Using a mix of fresh parsley, chives, and dill enhances the flavors and offers a burst of freshness that is hard to resist. I learned that using room temperature cheese helps in blending the ingredients smoothly, creating that creamy consistency we all love.

Every time I serve this spread, it's a hit! I’ve found that pairing it with a variety of dippers—from crispy chips to fresh veggies—adds an element of fun. Plus, it can easily be adjusted to include whatever herbs you have on hand!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Vibrant herbal flavors that are refreshing and light.
Creamy texture that spreads easily on any base.
Quick to prepare, making it ideal for last-minute gatherings.

Herb Selection and Preparation

Choosing the right herbs is essential for achieving the vibrant flavor profile of this Spring Herb and Cheese Spread. Fresh herbs like parsley, chives, and dill provide not just brightness but also a balance of earthy and grassy notes. Make sure to rinse the herbs thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt, and pat them dry with a paper towel before chopping. This ensures the spread remains free from excess moisture, which can dilute the flavors.

When chopping the herbs, aim for a fine mince to release their essential oils and flavors more effectively. I recommend using a sharp knife and a stable cutting board—this helps you control the size of the herb pieces, allowing for a smoothly blended spread. The finer the chop, the less likely you are to encounter large herb pieces, giving the spread a uniform taste and texture that binds well with the creamy ingredients.

Texture and Flavor Balancing

The cream cheese and sour cream combination creates a luscious, spreadable base. Make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature; this aids in achieving that creamy, smooth consistency. If you're short on time, you can microwave the cream cheese for 10-15 seconds, but ensure it doesn’t melt. A smooth mixture acts as the perfect canvas for the fresh herbs, allowing their flavors to shine through without clashing.

The addition of garlic and lemon juice is crucial for layering flavors. Garlic adds a mild pungency that complements the herbaceous notes, while lemon juice introduces a delightful acidity that brightens the spread. Adjust the lemon juice according to your taste; if you prefer a bolder tang, feel free to add an extra half teaspoon. This attention to the flavor balance will truly elevate your spread, making it irresistible.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients:

Ingredients

8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup sour cream
1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
1/4 cup fresh chives, finely chopped
1/4 cup fresh dill, finely chopped
1 clove garlic, minced
1 tsp lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure all ingredients are prepped and ready to mix!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your spread:

Mix the Base Ingredients

In a medium-sized bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and sour cream. Using a hand mixer or a fork, mix until smooth and creamy.

Add Fresh Herbs and Seasoning

Stir in the chopped parsley, chives, dill, garlic, and lemon juice. Mix well until all ingredients are well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Chill and Serve

Transfer the mixture to a serving bowl and cover. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Serve with crackers, bread, or vegetables.

Enjoy your delicious spread!

Pro Tips

Feel free to experiment with different herbs depending on your preferences and what's in season. Also, this spread can be made a day in advance for even better flavor development.

Storage Tips

This herb and cheese spread can be conveniently stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. The flavors continue to meld during storage, making it even more delicious the next day. Just be sure to give it a good stir before serving, as it may thicken a bit when chilled.

If you have leftover spread, consider using it as a filling for sandwiches or wraps. It can also serve as a dip for chips or sliced vegetables, making it a versatile option beyond just a spread. However, avoid freezing this recipe, as the texture of the cream cheese can become grainy once thawed.

Serving Suggestions

For an attractive presentation, serve this Spring Herb and Cheese Spread in a charming bowl, garnished with a few whole herbs or a sprinkle of cracked black pepper. Pair it with an assortment of crackers, toasted baguette slices, or even warm pita for a delightful appetizer experience. This spread can also serve as a delightful side for charcuterie boards.

Consider adding assorted vegetables like carrots, celery, and cucumber sticks for freshness and crunch. This not only enhances the visual appeal of the dish but also provides a healthy and colorful option for serving, making it perfect for spring gatherings. The versatility ensures your spread can cater to various preferences, exciting your guests’ taste buds.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?

While fresh herbs are recommended for their vibrant flavor, you can use dried herbs. Just reduce the quantity to about one-third, as dried herbs are more concentrated.

→ How long can I store the spread?

The spread can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.

→ What can I serve this spread with?

This herb spread pairs well with crackers, fresh vegetables, toasted baguette slices, or as a sandwich filling.

→ Can I make this spread dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute the cream cheese and sour cream with vegan alternatives to make a dairy-free version of this spread.