The classic southern favorite, Pimento Cheese Spread, gets a healthy makeover that you and your family will surely enjoy!

Dustin and I have quickly fallen in love with this restaurant in Southwest Austin called Jack Allen's Kitchen.

They have an awesome restaurant design, menu and concept and their food is really great. They also have a Sunday buffet every week that is just amazing.

But I digress.

Our favorite appetizer at Jack Allen's is their Homemade Pimento Cheese Spread with Crackers. It's really tasty.

And, when I say it's our favorite appetizer, I mean it's the only appetizer we've ever ordered there because we like it so much.

I'll admit, at first, I was skeptical to order anything pimento-related. Truth be told, it weirded me out a little.

But, once I tried it, I was in love. I mean, c'mon: It's a cheese spread, right?

We decided it would be neat to make our own pimento cheese spread at home. Turns out it's ridiculously easy.

Awesome.

What Is Pimento Cheese?

Pimento cheese is a versatile spread that is usually made of basically cheese, mayonnaise and these small sweet peppers called “Cherry peppers.” Sounds totally unfamiliar? Think again!

You might actually recognize them as those tiny cut up red peppers inside green olives. Yes, finally now we’re talking!

This popular spread was also called “Carolina Caviar” or “Southern Pate” since it did originate from the Southern part of the U.S.

There are a lot of different ways to make pimento cheese. Some people add cream cheese for a creamier mixture, while I, on the other hand, well you’ll get to know my secret ingredient later for a healthier version!

Bottom line is, there are tons of ways to mix up your own pimento cheese.

Is Palmetto Cheese The Same As Pimento Cheese?

Palmetto cheese is a brand of pimento cheese. Needless to say, there's been an ongoing discussion on whether palmetto cheese is the same as pimento.

While there's been some confusion in this matter and now the mystery has been solved.

Is Pimento Cheese Processed?

Yes, store-bought pimento cheese is most likely highly processed.

But if you’re planning to make your very own homemade pimento cheese just like I did, then it will not be nearly as processed.

It all depends on the ingredients you use for your own mixture.

Can I Eat Pimento Cheese While On Keto?

That’s a definite Y.E.S! If you’re on a ketogenic diet, the pimento cheese is a perfect addition! Just remember to check your ingredients and make sure that they are low-carb and low-sugar.

How Can I Make A Vegan/Dairy-Free Pimento Cheese?

I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again! You can always create a new take on a classic recipe. So if you’re sensitive to dairy or prefer not to eat dairy, you can still satiate your pimento cheese cravings.

Basically, all you need to replace are the dairy ingredients: the Greek yogurt and the cheese.

There are tons of dairy-free and vegan substitutes that you can use for pimento cheese and yogurt, and they’ll taste as flavorful as the original one! The vegan niche has come far and has definitely ramped up the variety of vegan products now in the market!

How To Serve Pimento Cheese

Just like I said there are various ways to mix up your own pimento cheese, and they're even more ways to eat them! I personally like to add them on top of my Olive Oil Herb Crackers, that sharp flavor and the crunchy combination is just divine!

You can also slather some pimento cheese between two (or three!) slices of whole wheat bread for an easy-to-pack sandwich which is perfect for lunchboxes, picnics, and even road trips.

If you’re grilling up some burgers and feel like a slice of cheddar cheese just ain’t gonna cut it today, top them up with a heaping spoonful of pimento cheese! (Writing this is making me hungrier than I thought it would!).

How To Store Pimento Cheese

To keep your pimento cheese fresh and ready for snacking, transfer it into an airtight container. This will make your favorite dip last for up to two weeks; which I assure you won’t ever happen in our household.

My kids love it just as much as I do, and I even have to make a double batch sometimes just for it to last a few days! (Yes, we just love it way way too much!)

Can You Freeze Pimento Cheese?

It’s a big NO! There’s an ongoing discussion about whether you can freeze pimento cheese or not, and I highly suggest that you don’t.

For one thing, it has cheese which just doesn't hold up when put in the freezer. If you choose to freeze your pimento cheese expect that the texture will most likely be off. Instead of having a creamy spread, you’ll be left with a grainy one instead.

More Healthy Dips

Check out more healthy dips I have on the blog for you, and start enjoying (healthy) snacks again!