BASIC CREAM CHEESE SPREAD (SCHMEAR)
1 ¼ to 1 ½ cups
Cream cheese is the perfect blank slate from which to make a flavorful sandwich spread that can serve as an alternative to mayonnaise or butter. Or use it as God intended: on a fresh, toasted bagel.
Mash or beat until soft and combined in a medium bowl:
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons heavy or sour cream or softened butter
Beat in any of the following:
- 2 tablespoons minced onion, shallot, or green onion
- Cloves from 1 head Roasted Garlic I
- ¼ cup chopped parsley, dill, cilantro, or chives
- ¼ cup Pesto
- ¼ cup drained capers, minced
- ⅓ cup finely chopped jarred roasted red peppers
- ⅓ cup pitted and chopped green or black olives
- 2 ounces smoked salmon, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons drained prepared horseradish
- 2 tablespoons minced anchovies
- ½ cup finely chopped toasted nuts
- 2 tablespoons chive blossoms or marigold petals
If desired, season with:
- (Salt, black pepper, paprika, and/or cayenne pepper)
Use at once or cover and refrigerate for up to 1 week.