Kentucky Cucumber and Cream Cheese Dip

Ingredients

• 2 large cucumbers, peeled, seeded, and grated (about 2 cups/470ml) 2 large cucumbers, peeled, seeded, and grated (about 2 cups/470ml)
• 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup (60ml) mayonnaise 1/4 cup (60ml) mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped 2 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 clove garlic, minced 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 180 kcal / 753 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 16g, 8g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 5g, 3g
• Protein: 4g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 0.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a medium bowl, combine the grated cucumbers, softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, minced garlic, and onion powder. Mix well until all the ingredients are thoroughly combined.
2. 2.
   Add the chopped dill, chives, and parsley to the mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir until the herbs are evenly distributed throughout the dip.
3. 3.
   Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together.
4. 4.
   Before serving, give the dip a quick stir and adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve chilled with crackers, bread, or fresh vegetables.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Cucumbers — Make sure to peel and seed the cucumbers before grating to remove any excess moisture and bitterness.
• Cream cheese — Soften the cream cheese at room temperature before mixing to ensure a smooth and creamy consistency.
• Fresh herbs — Use fresh herbs for the best flavor. If you don't have fresh herbs, you can substitute with dried herbs, but reduce the amount by half.

Tips & Tricks

• For a tangier flavor, add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to the dip.
• Customize the dip by adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
• Serve the dip in a hollowed-out cucumber for an attractive presentation.
• Experiment with different herbs such as mint or basil to add a unique twist to the dip.
• If you prefer a smoother texture, blend the dip in a food processor until creamy.

Serving advice

Serve the Kentucky Cucumber and Cream Cheese Dip chilled as an appetizer or snack. It pairs well with crackers, toasted bread, or fresh vegetable sticks. Garnish with additional fresh herbs for an extra pop of color.

Presentation advice

Present the dip in a decorative bowl or on a platter surrounded by an assortment of colorful vegetables and crackers. Consider adding cucumber slices or fresh herbs as a garnish to enhance the visual appeal.