Benedictine Spread
Whip up this beloved Kentucky appetizer recipe for tasty Benedictine Spread for Kentucky Derby parties, holiday gatherings, potlucks and beyond! It’s a creamy and flavorful dip recipe that’s perfect for serving with crisp baguette slices and fresh veggies.
First, let’s dive in to why this dip is called Benedictine spread and then I’ll teach you how to make it!
What is Benedictine Spread?
Benedictine spread is an old Kentucky recipe created by Jennie Carter Benedict (hence the name) in the early 20th century, this creamy spread was originally made as a filling for tea sandwiches. Jennie was a well-known caterer who also happened a team room in Kentucky. Jennie added a drop of green food coloring to give it a greener color, but this is a totally optional addition.
Benedictine spread is made with a tasty blend of of cucumber, cream cheese, onion, and herbs. Once you try it, you’ll quickly see why it became a beloved staple in Southern cuisine, enjoyed at social gatherings and luncheons, especially around the Kentucky Derby. Serve it up with a mint julep!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Tips for Making Benedictine Spread
- I recommend an English cucumber for this recipe. The skin is thinner and they don’t have large seeds.
- Peel your cucumber first, slice it in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds. Pat it dry before chopping. You want to get rid of any extra liquid.
- After you pulse it in the food processor, remove out any additional excess moisture by scooping the cucumber on to a few paper towels and squeezing out any liquid. Return the cucumber back to the food processor or mixing bowl.
- Don’t have a food processor? You can actually grate your cucumber and white onion and just stir together with the rest of the ingredients. A box grater will do the trick!
- Want a greener Benedictine spread? Add a drop or two of green food coloring (a little goes a long way!)
What to serve with Benedictine Spread?
Here’s how I like to serve this dip! Now you can certainly use it as a filling for tea sandwiches, but I like to serve it as a true spread.
- Crispy Baguette Slices/Crostini
- Bell Pepper Strips
- Carrot Slices
- Tomatoes
- Cucumber Slices
- Crackers
- Pita Crisps
- Bagel Chips
- Toast Points
You can also use it as a spread on wraps too! Delish!
Like I said above, it’s perfect for serving at your Kentucky Derby viewing party! It’s fresh, delicious and easy to make. That’s the perfect kind of appetizer, in my opinion!
Garnish your spread/dip with any fresh herbs you have on hand like fresh chives, parsley, basil or dill. That extra pop of green makes any appetizer look so pretty.
Isn’t she a pretty dip? It looks lovely as an addition to any charcuterie spread too! Happy dipping!
While you’re in the kitchen, here are a few more appetizers I think you’ll fancy!
Benedictine Spread
Ingredients
- 1 large English cucumber (peeled)
- 1/4 White Onion (chopped)
- 8 ounces cream cheese ((1 block))
- 2 tbsp mayonnaise
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper ((or 2 drops hot sauce))
- 1 tsp salt
- 1-2 drops green food coloring (optional )
- fresh herbs (chopped, for garnish )
Instructions
- Slice cucumber lengthwise and scoop out seeds. Chop cucumber and add to food processor with chopped onion.
- Puree in food processor. Scoop out pureed cucumber and onion and wring out any excess moisture with paper towels. Return cucumber and onion to food processor. If not using a food processor, you can grate cucumber and onion – be sure to press out any excess moisture.
- Add in cream cheese, mayo, salt, and cayenne pepper to food processor. Puree until smooth. Stir in a drop or two of green food coloring if desired.
- Keep spread chilled until ready to serve. Garnish with fresh herbs.
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