Spinach cream cheese

Spinach Cream Cheese – a healthy, creamy delight full of flavor

Total preparation time: 15 minutes
Soaking time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 4

In a world full of complicated recipes, spinach cream cheese stands out for its simplicity and refined taste. This recipe is perfect for a healthy snack or as an appetizer at a festive meal. Ideal for vegans and beyond, spinach cream cheese is a wonderful example of how simple ingredients can create a sophisticated dish. Let’s discover together the steps needed to achieve a delicious cream that will surely impress.

Ingredients

- 1 handful of cashews (about 100g), soaked for 1 hour in water
- 1 handful of fresh spinach, finely chopped (about 50g)
- 1 teaspoon of lemon juice
- A pinch of salt
- 1 clove of garlic, crushed
- 1 tablespoon of tahini, rich in calcium
- 1 teaspoon of extra virgin olive oil

Necessary tools

- Blender or food processor
- Serving bowl
- Knife and cutting board for chopping spinach
- Measuring spoon

Step by step for spinach cream cheese

1. Soaking the cashews: Start by placing the cashews in a bowl with water and let them soak for 1 hour. Soaking not only helps achieve a creamy texture but also activates beneficial enzymes in the nuts.

2. Preparing the ingredients: Once the cashews have soaked, drain them well. At this point, chopping the spinach should be a priority. Use a sharp knife to cut the spinach into small pieces for easier incorporation into the cream.

3. Blending: In a blender, add the soaked cashews, crushed garlic, lemon juice, salt, and tahini. Blend on medium speed until you achieve a smooth and creamy paste. It’s important to stop the blender occasionally and scrape the sides to ensure even mixing.

4. Adding the spinach: Once the cashew cream reaches a pleasant consistency, add the chopped spinach. Blend again on a lower speed just enough to incorporate the spinach into the cream. It’s essential not to over-mix to maintain a nice texture.

5. Finishing: Finally, add the olive oil and gently mix with a spatula to avoid destroying the spinach.

6. Serving: Transfer the spinach cream cheese to a serving bowl and garnish with a few fresh spinach leaves or a drizzle of olive oil. This cream can be enjoyed alongside a fresh arugula salad, which will add a note of bitterness and a pleasant contrast.

Useful tips

- Cashews: If you don’t have cashews, you can experiment with other nuts or seeds, such as almonds or sunflower seeds. Each variation will bring a unique flavor.
- Spinach: Make sure the spinach is fresh and green, as this will influence both the taste and the final appearance of the cream.
- Variations: You can add spices like cayenne pepper or paprika for a more intense flavor. Additionally, a handful of fresh herbs like basil or parsley can enhance the taste.
- Serving: Spinach cream cheese pairs wonderfully with crackers, raw vegetables, or toasted bread, turning it into a sophisticated appetizer.

Nutritional benefits

This recipe is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Cashews are an excellent source of healthy fats, protein, and essential minerals like magnesium and copper. Spinach, rich in iron and vitamins A, C, and K, contributes to a strong immune system and skin health. Olive oil brings antioxidants and monounsaturated fats, beneficial for the heart.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use frozen spinach?: Yes, but make sure to thaw and drain it well to avoid excess water in the cream.
- Is this recipe vegan?: Absolutely! All ingredients are plant-based.
- How can I store the cream?: Keep the cream in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it can stay fresh for 3-5 days.
- Can I substitute tahini?: Yes, a good alternative would be peanut butter or even almond butter.

Delicious pairings

This spinach cream cheese pairs perfectly with a glass of dry white wine or a gin-based cocktail. You can also serve it alongside main dishes such as a quinoa salad with Mediterranean vegetables or a portion of bruschetta with tomatoes and basil.

In conclusion, spinach cream cheese is a recipe worth trying, as it is quick, easy to prepare, and extremely tasty. Whether you want to serve it at a party, add it to a platter of appetizers, or simply enjoy it alongside a salad, this dish will surely become a favorite of yours. Experiment with the ingredients and find the perfect combination for your taste!