Pimento cheese is a cherished Southern staple that blends creaminess, tanginess, and just the right amount of spice. While traditional recipes often feature cream cheese or shredded cheese as the main ingredients, a healthier alternative is to use yogurt cheese. In this article, we’ll explore the benefits of yogurt cheese, discuss how to easily roast your own red peppers for an authentic flavor, and share a simple yet delicious recipe to elevate your snacking experience.
Yogurt cheese stands out as a superior choice for a variety of reasons. Primarily, it is lower in fat and calories compared to traditional cheese products, making it a heart-healthy option for those who are health-conscious. Stripping whey from yogurt results in a creamy product that retains essential nutrients, giving you a protein-rich spread without the excess fat.
Beyond its nutritional profile, yogurt cheese is rich in probiotics, which help aid digestion and boost the immune system. This means that when you indulge in pimento cheese made with yogurt cheese, you’re not just treating your taste buds; you’re also nurturing your body. The natural tanginess of yogurt cheese brings an unexpected zest to pimento cheese, enhancing the overall flavor while keeping the spread delightfully creamy.
Roasting Your Red Peppers: Easy and Rewarding
While jarred roasted red peppers are convenient, there is a significant flavor difference when you roast your own. Freshly roasted red peppers retain a vibrant taste and a firmer texture that can add depth to your dishes. Here are three simple methods for roasting red peppers at home:
1. **Oven Roasting**: Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Place whole red peppers on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil. Roast for about 20-30 minutes, turning them occasionally to achieve a uniformly blistered skin. Once they’re well-roasted, transfer the peppers to a bowl and cover with a kitchen towel to steam for about 10-15 minutes, which makes peeling easier.
2. **Grilling**: If you prefer a smoky flavor, grilling is an excellent method. Preheat your grill and place whole red peppers directly on the grates. Grill them, turning frequently, until charred all over. After grilling, put the peppers in a bowl and cover with a kitchen towel and let them steam before peeling.
3. **Stovetop**: A gas stove provides a quick option for roasting. Place a whole pepper directly on the burner flame, turning it until the skin is charred thoroughly. This method is speedy but does require attention to prevent burning.
4. **Broiler**: Turn your broiler on high and move the rack to the next one down from the top. Cut your pepper in half, remove the seeds, and brush the tops with a little avocado oil. Broil for 10 to 15 minutes, turning halfway through. When they come out of the oven, cover with a dish towel to steam for 10 minutes.
Pimento Cheese Made with Yogurt Cheese
Ingredients
- 1 cup Yogurt Cheese I recomend a two dain strain for this recipe
- 1 Red pepper, roasted, peeled, and finely chopped In the post above are 4 options for roasting your pepper.
- 1/4 tsp Onion powder
- 1/4 tsp Garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp Paprika
- 1/8 tsp Pepper
- pinch Cayenne pepper
- pinch Kosher salt or more to taste
Instructions
- 1. In a mixing bowl, combine the yogurt cheese and the chopped roasted red pepper.2. Add black pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, paprika, and a pinch of cayenne pepper.3. Stir the mixture until everything is well combined. Taste and adjust the seasoning according to your preference.4. For the best flavor, chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least one hour. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.5. Serve with your choice of crackers, fresh veggies, or as a flavorful sandwich spread. Enjoy every creamy, spicy bite of your homemade pimento cheese!