For many years of my life I was the solo single at the family get togethers, never the host, always the lone guest. I was often asked to bring something along, usually a snack to be passed before dinner began.
I found the task a bit daunting because the kitchen at my host's house was already overflowing with well-intentioned helpers, so I needed to bring something that fit my very narrow needs. Anything “too gourmet” was strictly forbidden, it couldn't require time in the oven or use of the stove top and I had to be able to afford it. My pride was on the line, and although bringing a bag of chips or a cheese ball and a box of Triscuits would have probably sufficed, I just couldn't bring myself to do it.
If you find yourself in a similar situation, or are just looking for a quick and simple snack, read on.
In January, when BR held a gathering at the Executive Performance Center to try and figure out how to make our own mozzarella cheese, Sandy Starks of Slow Food Buffalo shared her recipe for this creamy herb spread. Very similar to high-priced Boursin cheese, it is tasty and half the price for four times the quantity. Despite the ridiculously large potion Sandy made, it managed to disappear entirely by the end of the evening. The ingredients are inexpensive, and, if you're a singleton without a fully-stocked spice cabinet, don't fret, just check out BR contributor Michael Franco's recent discovery of spices and herbs sold by weight over at the Lexington Co-op.
This spread is delicious on crusty bread, but I find these crisp crackers from the Co-op (Suzie's Kamut Olive Oil Flat Bread with Rosemary) to be even better because of the abundance of dried rosemary that decorates the top of each one.
Creamy Herb Spread
3 garlic cloves · 8 oz unsalted butter, softened · 16 oz cream cheese, softened ·1/2 tsp salt · 1/2 tsp basil, dried · 1/2 tsp marjoram, dried · ½ tsp dill weed, dried · 1/4 tsp thyme, dried · 1/2 tsp fresh ground black pepper · chives or scallions, chopped (to taste)
Add all ingredients to a food processor or large mixing bowl and blend. Serve at room temperature.
Lexington Co-Operative Market
807 Elmwood Avenue, Buffalo, 14222
716.886.2667