This Article is Approved By » Esther Howard (Nutritionist) & Dr. Jane Cooper (Expert Dietitian)
Pimento cheese is a name that evokes memories of picnics, family gatherings, and lazy summer afternoons.
Whether you’re a born-and-bred Southerner or a curious food enthusiast, pimento cheese is a spread that transcends regional boundaries.
But what exactly is it, and is Pimento Cheese good for you? Let’s dive into the world of this beloved delicacy and explore its nutritional profile.
Is Pimento Cheese Good for You?
The Short Answer
Pimento cheese is a popular Southern dish of cheeses, mayonnaise, and pimentos. It has some health benefits as it contains calcium and protein, essential for bone health and muscle growth. However, it’s also high in saturated fat and calories, which can contribute to weight gain and heart disease if consumed in excess.
What Is Pimento Cheese Made Of?
Pimento cheese is a Southern classic, cherished for its simplicity and versatility. Here’s the breakdown of its ingredients:
- Cheese Blend: Pimento cheese starts with a blend of cheeses. Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a combination of both create a creamy base. The cheese provides protein and calcium, which are essential for bone health.
- Mayonnaise (or Salad Dressing): Southerners take their mayo seriously, which plays a starring role in pimento cheese. While mayo adds richness, it’s also high in calories and fat.
- Spices: Basic spices like paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, salt, or pepper enhance the flavour. Some variations include minced or pickled onion, jalapeños, green chiles, or chopped pickles (with their juice) for that authentic Southern twang.
- Pimiento Peppers: These bright red, chopped peppers are the heart and soul of pimento cheese. They lend colour, tanginess, and a touch of sweetness.
Fun fact
You might see it spelled as “pimento” or “pimiento”—both are acceptable.
Pimento Cheese Nutrition Facts
Here is the nutritional value of pimento cheese per serving (2 Tbsp or 31g) according to the image:
- Calories: 90
- Total Fat: 7g (9% DV)
- Saturated Fat: 2g (10% DV)
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 10mg (3% DV)
- Sodium: 330mg (14% DV)
- Total Carbohydrate: 4g (1% DV)
- Dietary Fiber: 0g
- Total Sugars: 4g
- Includes <1g Added Sugars (2% DV)
- Protein: 2g
Please note that Vitamin D, Calcium, Iron, and Potassium are not significant sources in this serving of pimento cheese.
What Do You Eat with Pimento Cheese?
The beauty of pimento cheese lies in its versatility. Here are some delightful ways to enjoy it:
- Classic Pairings: Spread it on buttery crackers or spicy gingersnaps. Down South, it’s sandwiched between white bread and cut into tea-sized finger sandwiches—a staple at garden parties and luncheons.
- Creative Twists: Stir it into grits for a comforting breakfast, mix it into deviled egg filling, or layer it on avocado toast. Elevate your burger game by adding a generous dollop of pimento cheese.
- Dippers: Fresh veggies, sliced bread, pretzels, or pita chips—all make excellent companions for this creamy delight.
What Does Pimento Cheese Taste Like?
Close your eyes and take a bite. Pimento cheese hits all the senses:
- Creamy: It coats the roof of your mouth, leaving a velvety texture.
- Spicy: The subtle kick from spices dances on your taste buds.
- Cheesy Goodness: The rich cheese flavor lingers, inviting another bite.
Benefits & Drawbacks of Pimento Cheese
Let’s address the million-dollar question: Is pimento cheese a health-conscious choice?
The Pros
- Calcium Boost: Thanks to the cheese, pimento cheese provides a good dose of calcium—essential for strong bones.
- Protein Content: It contains protein vital for muscle growth and repair.
- Antioxidants: Pimento peppers contribute vitamin C and antioxidants, offering some health benefits.
The Cons
- Calories and Saturated Fat: Pimento cheese can be calorie-dense due to mayo and cheese. Moderation is key.
- Sodium Levels: Be mindful of its sodium content, which could affect blood pressure.
How Long is Pimento Cheese Safe to Eat?
Pimento cheese can be eaten immediately, but sitting in the fridge overnight is best so the flavors can meld. It can be kept in the refrigerator for a week or more. You can also freeze pimento cheese for up to three months, but freezing can affect the texture.
Is It Healthy to Eat Pimento Cheese Every Day?
It’s not recommended to eat pimento cheese every day. While it offers some nutrients, it’s also high in fat, sodium, and calories, which can pose health risks if consumed excessively.
Moderation is vital; consulting a healthcare professional is best if you have specific dietary needs or concerns.
Is Pimento Cheese Good for Your Heart?
Pimento cheese isn’t ideal for heart health. The main ingredients, cheese and mayonnaise, are high in saturated fat, which can raise bad cholesterol and increase the risk of heart disease.
However, moderation is key. Enjoying a small portion occasionally as part of a balanced diet likely won’t cause harm.
Conclusion
As a Southerner, pimento cheese is woven into my culinary DNA. It’s more than a spread: nostalgia, comfort, and a taste of home. So go ahead—whip up a batch in just 10 minutes and join the ranks of pimento cheese enthusiasts. Remember, like any indulgence, enjoy it mindfully, savoring every creamy, cheesy bite.