*Ingredients* (about 2 cups):
- 200 g cream cheese, softened
- 80 g grated cheddar (or a mix cheddar + parmesan)
- 1 medium carrot, finely grated and patted dry
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh chives or green onion, chopped (optional)
- 1 small garlic clove, minced (optional)
- ½ tsp Dijon mustard
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Squeeze of lemon juice (optional, ~½ tsp)
*Steps*
1. In a bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Mix in the grated cheddar.
2. Stir in carrot, parsley, chives, and garlic if using.
3. Add Dijon, lemon juice, then season with salt and pepper. Taste and adjust.
4. Chill 20–30 min for flavors to meld, then serve with toast, crackers, or crudités.
Tip: squeeze excess moisture from the grated carrot so the spread stays thick. Swap herbs or cheese to taste—dill or cilantro work fine too.
