This riff on pimento cheese takes a crowd-pleasing favorite to a new level. The spice and vinegar of Italian giardiniera add a note of acidity that the traditional version lacks, making it a delicious condiment for a cocktail-hour board of seafood. Vencio serves up steamed prawns, clams, mussels, and squid with Spicy Giardiniera Pimento Cheese, accompanied by red beans and rice garnished with fresh chopped herbs, lemon, and rockweed. We recommend you pair this delectable menu with a pitcher of dry, ice-cold martinis. The combination will make for a very happy Happy Hour.
Spicy Giardiniera Pimento Cheese Recipe
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Spicy Giardiniera Pimento Cheese
Description
Spicy Giardiniera Pimento Cheese is a bold twist on the classic spread, mixing creamy cheese with tangy, spicy giardiniera. Perfect for pairing with seafood or serving at happy hour, it brings a kick of flavor to any table.
Ingredients
- 1 pint Portogallo Spicy Giardiniera, minced
- 12 oz shredded sharp cheddar
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup canned pimentos, minced
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp cayenne
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
- 1/2 tsp kosher salt
Instructions
- Drain and squeeze excess liquid from giardiniera. Mince giardiniera. Reserve liquid for another recipe.
- Using a food processor, combine all ingredients except giardiniera. Pulse until well combined. Then add giardiniera and pulse until mixed well.
Recipe by Rafe Vencio, Amboy Filipino Food
Photography by Dave Bryce
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