Herbed Chevre Spread: A Taste of Provence in Every Bite

I have a vivid memory of my first trip to France, specifically a small farmer’s market in Provence. The air was thick with the scent of lavender and ripe tomatoes, and a kindly woman with flour on her apron offered me a taste of her homemade chevre. It was creamy, tangy, and bursting with the flavors of fresh herbs. That single bite transported me, and I’ve been chasing that flavor ever since. This herbed chevre spread is my attempt to capture that magic, bringing a little piece of Provence to my own kitchen and, hopefully, to yours.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 10 minutes
• Yields: 8 ounces
• Serves: 6
• Dietary Type: Vegetarian

Ingredients

• 4 ounces soft chevre cheese
• 4 ounces cream cheese
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh marjoram, chopped or 2 teaspoons dried marjoram
• 2 teaspoons fresh dill, chopped or 1 teaspoon dried dill
• Fresh ground pepper, to taste

Equipment Needed

• Mixing bowl
• Spatula or spoon
• Serving bowl or plastic wrap (for shaping)

Instructions

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the soft chevre cheese and cream cheese. It is best if both cheeses are at room temperature, as this will make them easier to blend smoothly. If you forgot to take them out of the refrigerator ahead of time, you can microwave them for about 10-15 seconds, but be careful not to melt them.

2. Using a spatula or spoon, thoroughly mix the cheeses together until they are completely combined and smooth. There should be no lumps remaining. This step is crucial for achieving the desired creamy texture of the spread.

3. Add the fresh parsley, fresh marjoram (or dried marjoram), and fresh dill (or dried dill) to the cheese mixture.

4. Stir in the herbs until they are evenly distributed throughout the cheese. Make sure to scrape the sides and bottom of the bowl to ensure that all the herbs are incorporated.

5. Season generously with fresh ground pepper to taste. The pepper adds a delightful warmth and a subtle bite to the spread. You can also add a pinch of salt if desired, but the cheese itself is often salty enough.

6. At this point, you have two options for serving. You can either pack the herbed chevre spread into a serving bowl and drizzle it with olive oil for a rustic presentation, or you can shape it into a ball.

7. To shape the spread into a ball, place a large piece of plastic wrap on a flat surface. Spoon the cheese mixture onto the plastic wrap and gently form it into a ball shape. Twist the ends of the plastic wrap tightly to seal the ball.

8. Refrigerate the cheese ball for at least 30 minutes to allow it to firm up. This will make it easier to handle and roll.

9. If you choose to roll the cheese ball, you will need to prepare the coating. Lightly toast some walnuts or almonds in a dry skillet over medium heat until they are fragrant and lightly browned. This will enhance their flavor and add a pleasant crunch. Let them cool slightly, then chop them finely.

10. Remove the cheese ball from the refrigerator and unwrap it carefully. Roll the cheese ball in the chopped toasted walnuts or almonds, pressing gently to ensure that the nuts adhere to the surface.

11. Serve the herbed chevre spread with crusty bread, crackers, or vegetable sticks.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Herb Power: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different herbs! Thyme, rosemary, chives, or even a pinch of dried lavender can add unique flavor dimensions.
• Make-Ahead Magic: This spread is even better when the flavors have had a chance to meld. Make it a day or two in advance and store it in the refrigerator.
• Softening the Cheese: If you forget to soften the cream cheese and chevre, place them in a heatproof bowl set over a pan of simmering water. Stir occasionally until softened but not melted.
• Fixing a Runny Spread: If your spread becomes too runny, you can add a tablespoon or two of powdered milk or cornstarch to thicken it up.
• Adding a Zest: A little lemon or orange zest can brighten up the flavors and add a touch of acidity. Start with 1/2 teaspoon and adjust to taste.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

This herbed chevre spread is incredibly versatile and can be served in numerous ways. Serve it with crusty bread, crackers, or vegetable sticks as an appetizer. It’s also delicious spread on sandwiches or bagels. For a more elegant presentation, serve it with a selection of olives, dried fruits, and nuts.

Leftover herbed chevre spread can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. It’s best to bring it to room temperature before serving to allow the flavors to fully develop. The cheese spread is best served chilled but not too cold, because if it is too cold, it can become firm and lose some of its spreadability. I do not recommend freezing it as it can alter the texture.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	133.9 kcal	N/A
Calories from Fat	109 kcal	82%
Total Fat	12.1 g	18%
Saturated Fat	7.6 g	37%
Cholesterol	35.8 mg	11%
Sodium	158.7 mg	6%
Total Carbohydrate	1.3 g	0%
Dietary Fiber	0 g	0%
Sugars	1.1 g	4%
Protein	5.2 g	10%

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and serving size.

Variations & Substitutions

• Dairy-Free Delight: For a dairy-free version, substitute the chevre and cream cheese with plant-based alternatives made from cashews, almonds, or soy. Be sure to check the flavor of the plant based alternatives for any off flavors before using.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
• Mediterranean Twist: Incorporate sun-dried tomatoes, Kalamata olives, and a sprinkle of oregano for a Mediterranean-inspired flavor.
• Sweet & Savory: Drizzle with honey or maple syrup for a touch of sweetness.
• Seasonal Herbs: Use seasonal herbs like basil in the summer or sage in the fall for a unique twist.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh herbs?
A: Yes, you can use dried herbs, but fresh herbs will provide a more vibrant flavor. Use half the amount of dried herbs as fresh herbs.

Q: How long does this spread last in the refrigerator?
A: This spread will last for up to 5 days in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Q: Can I freeze this spread?
A: Freezing is not recommended as it can alter the texture of the cheese.

Q: What if I don’t like chevre cheese?
A: If you don’t like chevre cheese, you can substitute it with another soft cheese like ricotta or feta.

Q: Can I add garlic to this spread?
A: Yes, you can add a clove of minced garlic for extra flavor.

Final Thoughts

This herbed chevre spread is a delightful and versatile addition to any kitchen repertoire. It’s incredibly easy to make, endlessly customizable, and always a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, packing a picnic, or simply looking for a delicious snack, this spread is sure to impress. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and let the flavors of Provence transport you to a sun-drenched countryside. I encourage you to experiment with different herbs and flavor combinations to create your own signature spread. And please, let me know what you think – I love hearing about your culinary adventures! Pair this with a crisp glass of Sauvignon Blanc for the perfect appetizer experience.