๐ง๐ฅ Almond Bacon Cheddar Spread: A Delectable Delight ๐ง๐ฅ
What is it?
Almond Bacon Cheddar Spread is a mouthwatering appetizer or snack that combines the nutty richness of almonds, the savory smokiness of bacon, and the creamy delight of cheddar cheese. This delightful spread is perfect for parties, gatherings, or any occasion that calls for a delicious and indulgent treat.
History:
The precise origin of Almond Bacon Cheddar Spread is a bit murky, but it likely emerged as a fusion of various culinary traditions. Bacon and cheddar have long been beloved ingredients in American cuisine, while almonds bring a unique twist with their nutty flavor and crunchy texture. Over time, creative cooks have experimented with these ingredients to create this scrumptious spread.
Components:
- Almonds: You’ll need around 1 cup of roasted almonds. They provide a delightful crunch and nutty flavor to the spread.
- Bacon: Approximately 6 strips of crispy, crumbled bacon add a smoky, savory element.
- Cheddar Cheese: 1 1/2 cups of sharp cheddar cheese (shredded) infuse the spread with creamy, cheesy goodness.
- Cream Cheese: 8 ounces of softened cream cheese act as a binding agent and provide a smooth consistency.
- Mayonnaise: 1/2 cup of mayonnaise adds richness and a creamy texture.
- Green Onions: About 3-4 chopped green onions contribute a mild onion flavor and a pop of color.
- Worcestershire Sauce: 1 teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce enhances the umami taste.
- Garlic Powder: A pinch of garlic powder (about 1/4 teaspoon) elevates the overall flavor profile.
- Salt and Pepper: To taste, for seasoning.
Steps to Prepare:
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Prepare the Almonds: Start by roasting the almonds in a preheated oven at 350ยฐF (175ยฐC) for about 10 minutes or until they turn lightly golden. Allow them to cool.
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Crisp the Bacon: Cook the bacon until it’s crispy and then crumble it into small pieces.
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Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, chopped green onions, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until it’s well combined.
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Add Almonds: Gently fold in the roasted almonds, being careful not to crush them too much. You want to maintain some crunch in the spread.
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Chill: Transfer the mixture into a serving dish and refrigerate for at least an hour before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together.
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Serve: Before serving, garnish with a few extra bacon crumbles and green onion slices for a lovely presentation.
Time Needed to Prepare:
- Preparation: 20 minutes
- Cooking (for bacon and roasting almonds): 20 minutes
- Chilling: 1 hour
In total, you can expect to spend about 1 hour and 40 minutes from start to finish. It’s worth the wait for this delightful Almond Bacon Cheddar Spread that will surely delight your taste buds and impress your guests! Enjoy! ๐ง๐ฅ๐
Certainly! Here are the nutrition facts and some health information for Almond Bacon Cheddar Spread:
Nutrition Facts (Approximate values per serving):
- Calories: 200-250 kcal
- Total Fat: 16-20 grams
- Saturated Fat: 7-9 grams
- Trans Fat: 0 grams
- Cholesterol: 30-40 mg
- Sodium: 300-400 mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 3-5 grams
- Dietary Fiber: 1-2 grams
- Sugars: 1-2 grams
- Protein: 8-10 grams
Health Information:
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Moderation is Key: While Almond Bacon Cheddar Spread is undoubtedly delicious, it’s also quite rich in fats and calories. Enjoy it in moderation, especially if you’re mindful of your calorie intake.
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Protein Source: This spread does provide a decent amount of protein, thanks to the almonds, bacon, and cheese. Protein is essential for muscle repair and overall health.
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Fats: The spread contains both saturated and unsaturated fats. While it’s okay to enjoy some saturated fat as part of a balanced diet, it’s best not to overindulge, as excessive saturated fat intake can be linked to health issues.
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Calcium: Cheddar cheese is a source of calcium, which is essential for bone health. However, it’s also relatively high in sodium, so be mindful of your overall sodium intake.
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Fiber: The spread contains a small amount of dietary fiber, mainly from the almonds and green onions. Fiber aids in digestion and can help you feel fuller for longer.
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Sodium Content: The sodium content can vary depending on factors like the amount of bacon used and whether you add extra salt. Be cautious if you have high blood pressure or are watching your sodium intake.
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Customization: You can make this spread slightly healthier by using reduced-fat cream cheese or turkey bacon. Additionally, consider using whole almonds for added fiber and nutrients.
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Portion Control: To enjoy this indulgent treat without overdoing it, use it as a dip for fresh veggies like carrot sticks, celery, or cucumber slices. This way, you can savor the flavors while adding a nutritious element to your snack.
Remember that specific nutritional values may vary based on the exact ingredients and serving sizes you use. Always check labels and adjust the recipe to fit your dietary preferences and health goals.
