Ingredients
Equipment
Method
Step-by-Step Instructions for Garden Vegetable Spread
- Heat the Oil: In a medium skillet, warm 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Stirring occasionally, let the oil shimmer for about 1 minute.
- Sauté the Vegetables: Add 1 finely chopped onion, 1 grated carrot, 1 finely diced zucchini, and 1 finely diced red bell pepper to the skillet. Sauté for 6–8 minutes, stirring frequently, until the vegetables are tender and slightly caramelized.
- Season the Mixture: Stir in 2 cloves of minced garlic, ¼ teaspoon salt, ¼ teaspoon black pepper, ½ teaspoon dried Italian seasoning, and ½ teaspoon paprika. Cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly.
- Cool Down the Mixture: Remove the skillet from heat and set it aside to cool for about 5 minutes.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled vegetable mixture with 3 tablespoons of cream cheese, 3 tablespoons of mayonnaise, ¼ cup of finely shredded mozzarella cheese, 1 tablespoon of finely chopped fresh parsley, and 1 teaspoon of lemon juice.
- Mix Until Creamy: Using a spatula or a hand mixer, blend the mixture until creamy and well combined, roughly 2–3 minutes.
- Chill for Flavor Development: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the spread for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Nutrition
Notes
Allow the cream cheese to sit out for about 30 minutes for easier mixing. Cook vegetables fully but do not brown them.
