Mediterranean Veggie Cream Cheese
This Mediterranean-inspired veggie cream cheese is creamy, colorful, and full of fresh crunch. It’s a versatile spread that works perfectly on bagels, crackers, sandwiches, or even as a dip for fresh veggies. The combination of ranch seasoning, crisp vegetables, and smooth cream cheese makes it a flavorful way to add a boost of veggies to your snacks and breakfasts.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Chill Time (optional): 30 minutes for flavors to meld
Servings: About 12 (2 tablespoons each)
Ingredients
16 oz cream cheese, room temperature (two 8-oz packages)
1 packet ranch seasoning mix (1 oz)
1 medium carrot, peeled and finely diced
⅓ cup finely diced red bell pepper
½ cup finely chopped broccoli
2 green onions, finely chopped
Instructions
Soften the cream cheese
Place cream cheese in a large mixing bowl. Let it sit at room temperature if still firm.
Add seasoning
Mix in the ranch seasoning packet until well combined.
Incorporate the veggies
Stir in carrot, bell pepper, broccoli, and green onions until evenly distributed.
Chill (optional)
Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Serve
Spread on bagels, pita, or toast. You can also use it as a dip for fresh vegetables or crackers.
Tips & Variations
Lighten It Up: Use reduced-fat cream cheese or Greek yogurt cream cheese for a lighter option.
Herby Boost: Add fresh herbs like parsley, dill, or basil for extra Mediterranean flavor.
Spice Kick: Mix in a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne for gentle heat.
Make It Vegan: Swap cream cheese with a plant-based version and ensure the ranch seasoning is dairy-free.
Chunky vs. Smooth: For a chunkier spread, dice veggies slightly larger. For a smoother spread, pulse the mixture in a food processor.
Extra Add-ins: Try finely chopped olives, sun-dried tomatoes, or artichokes for a richer Mediterranean twist.
Serving Ideas: Spread on bagels, sandwiches, wraps, or use as a veggie dip for cucumbers, celery, and bell peppers.
Q&A
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes, it actually tastes better if made a few hours in advance since the flavors blend together. Store in the fridge in an airtight container.
Q: How long does it last?
A: It will stay fresh for about 4–5 days in the refrigerator.
Q: Can I freeze it?
A: Freezing isn’t recommended since cream cheese can separate and become grainy after thawing.
Q: Can I use other vegetables?
A: Absolutely. Cucumbers, zucchini, or even spinach (well drained) work well as additions or swaps.
Nutrition
(per serving, ~2 tablespoons)
Calories: ~95
Protein: ~2g
Fat: ~9g
Carbohydrates: ~2g
Fiber: ~0.5g
Sugar: ~1g
Sodium: ~120mg
(Values vary slightly based on cream cheese type and vegetable amounts.)
Conclusion
This Mediterranean Veggie Cream Cheese is a quick, colorful, and flavorful spread that adds a nutritious boost to your snacks and breakfasts. It’s creamy, tangy from the ranch seasoning, and fresh from the mix of vegetables. Easy to customize with herbs or extra Mediterranean add-ins, it’s the perfect way to make everyday bagels, sandwiches, or veggie platters more exciting.