Pawleys Island Palmetto Cheese Recipe & Pimento Cheese

You’ve ever visited South Carolina or spent time in the Lowcountry, you’ve likely tasted the iconic Pawleys Island Palmetto Cheese Recipe. This creamy, tangy spread is a Southern favorite, and for good reason.

The blend of sharp cheddar, creamy mayonnaise, and zesty pimentos creates a perfect balance of flavors. Over the years, I’ve come to appreciate the ease and versatility of this dish.

Spreading it on crackers, making sandwiches, or using it as a dip, Pawleys Island Palmetto Cheese Recipe always delivers.

I’ve found that making it at home not only brings a taste of the South to your kitchen but also allows you to customize the flavors just the way you like them. Let’s dive into this simple, delicious recipe!

What Is Pawleys Island Palmetto Cheese Recipe?

The Pawleys Island Palmetto Cheese Recipe is a beloved Southern dish, originating from the small town of Pawleys Island, South Carolina.

Known for its rich, creamy texture and tangy flavor, this recipe combines sharp cheddar cheese, creamy mayonnaise, and pimentos for a perfect balance of savory and slightly sweet notes.

It’s often enjoyed as a spread for crackers, sandwiches, or even as a dip for veggies. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity, with just a few ingredients coming together to create a comforting, flavorful treat.

Over the years, Pawleys Island Palmetto Cheese Recipe has become a Southern staple, cherished for its versatility and ability to elevate any meal or snack with ease. It’s a true taste of the Lowcountry!

How To Prepare Pawleys Island Palmetto Cheese Recipe

Preparation Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: None

Total Time: 15 minutes

Course: Appetizer

Cuisine: Southern American

Yield: Approximately 2 cups

Equipment Needed

• Mixing bowl
• Hand mixer or sturdy spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Grater
• Airtight storage container

Ingredients

• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup diced pimentos, drained
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a hint of heat)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

How To Make

1. Prepare the Cheese

Begin by grating the sharp cheddar cheese. Freshly grated cheese ensures a smoother texture and superior taste compared to pre-shredded varieties.

2. Mix the Base

In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and mayonnaise. Using a hand mixer or a sturdy spatula, blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy.

3. Incorporate Pimentos and Seasonings

Fold in the diced pimentos, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper (if using). Stir until all ingredients are evenly distributed.

4. Add the Cheddar Cheese

Gently fold the grated cheddar cheese into the mixture. Ensure the cheese is thoroughly combined but avoid overmixing, which can affect the spread’s texture.

5. Season to Taste

Taste the mixture and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed. Remember, the cheese and mayonnaise already contribute saltiness, so add additional salt sparingly.

6. Chill Before Serving

Transfer the Palmetto Cheese to an airtight container and refrigerate for at least an hour. Chilling allows the flavors to meld and the spread to firm up to the ideal consistency.

Special Notes

For those who enjoy a spicier kick, consider adding finely diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the mixture. If you prefer a smoky flavor, a pinch of smoked paprika enhances the taste.

Alternatively, for a smokier flavor, a pinch of smoked paprika can be incorporated. Palmetto Cheese is versatile and can be customized to suit individual taste preferences.

Nutrition Facts Pawleys Island Palmetto Cheese Recipe

• Serving Size: 2 tablespoons
• Calories: 130
• Total Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 4.5g
• Cholesterol: 20mg
• Sodium: 160mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 1g
• Sugars: 1g
• Protein: 3g

Serving Suggestions

Pawleys Island Palmetto Cheese Recipe is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in many delicious ways.

For a classic Southern treat, spread it generously on slices of soft white or whole wheat bread to make a pimento cheese sandwich.

It also pairs beautifully with an array of crackers, making it a perfect appetizer for any gathering. If you’re looking for something lighter, use it as a dip for fresh veggies like celery, carrots, or cucumber.

Another great option is serving it on top of burgers or grilled chicken for an extra layer of flavor.

You can even mix it into scrambled eggs for a cheesy, savory breakfast. No matter how you serve it, this creamy, tangy cheese spread is sure to impress your guests!

Tips And Techniques

Here are five of the Tips and Techniques to make your Pawleys Island Palmetto Cheese Recipe even more exciting:

1. Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to give your Palmetto Cheese a spicy twist. This is perfect for those who love a bit of heat in their dishes.

2. Bacon Lover’s Delight: Stir in crispy, crumbled bacon for a smoky flavor that takes the creamy cheese spread to the next level. This variation is great on sandwiches or as a dip.

3. Herbed Up: For a fresh, herby flavor, try mixing in finely chopped parsley, chives, or dill. The herbs add a burst of freshness that complements the rich cheese.

4. Garlic and Onion: Enhance the flavor by adding minced garlic or onion powder. This gives the Palmetto Cheese a savory depth that’s perfect for pairing with crackers or veggies.

5. Extra Creamy: Use a combination of sour cream and cream cheese in place of some of the mayonnaise to create a richer, more indulgent spread. This variation is perfect for a creamy dip.

Essential Health Benefits

Here are five essential health benefits of enjoying Pawleys Island Palmetto Cheese Recipe in moderation:

1. Good Source of Protein: With the combination of cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses, this spread provides a good amount of protein, which is essential for muscle repair, immune function, and overall body maintenance.

2. Rich in Calcium: The cheeses in Palmetto Cheese are high in calcium, a mineral that plays a crucial role in maintaining strong bones and teeth, as well as supporting nerve and muscle function.

3. Healthy Fats: The use of mayonnaise and cheese contributes healthy fats that can help provide long-lasting energy and support heart health when consumed in moderation.

4. Packed with Vitamins A and D: The cheese in this recipe is also a great source of vitamins A and D, which help promote good vision, skin health, and a strong immune system.

5. Supports Digestive Health: Pimentos are rich in fiber and antioxidants, which help promote healthy digestion and reduce inflammation, contributing to overall gut health.

How To Stor

To store your homemade Pawleys Island Palmetto Cheese Recipe, place it in an airtight container and refrigerate it immediately after preparation. It will stay fresh for up to 5 days in the fridge.

Make sure the container is tightly sealed to prevent the spread from absorbing any unwanted odors from other foods. If you’d like to store it for a longer period, you can freeze it for up to 1-2 months.

However, freezing may alter its texture slightly, so it’s best to enjoy it fresh. When ready to serve, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight, and give it a quick stir to bring back its creamy consistency.

Keep in mind, always check for freshness before using, and discard if it develops any unusual odor or texture.

Is It Safe For Heart Patients?

Pawleys Island Palmetto Cheese Recipe contains cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, and cream cheese, making it high in saturated fat and sodium.

 Heart patients should consume it in moderation or opt for a lighter version using reduced-fat cheese and Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise to lower unhealthy fats. Consulting a doctor or dietitian before adding it to a heart-healthy diet is recommended.

Is It Safe For Diabetic Patients?

Palmetto Cheese is low in carbohydrates but high in fats, which can impact overall health.

Diabetic patients should eat it in small portions and pair it with fiber-rich foods like whole-grain crackers or vegetables to help regulate blood sugar. Choosing a lower-fat alternative can make it a healthier option.

What Are The Ingredients In Pawleys Island Palmetto Cheese?

Traditional Pawleys Island Palmetto Cheese Recipe includes sharp cheddar cheese, cream cheese, mayonnaise, diced pimentos, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, and seasonings.

These ingredients create a creamy, tangy, and slightly spicy pimento cheese spread that is perfect for various dishes.

What Do You Use Palmetto Cheese For?

Pawleys Island Palmetto Cheese Recipe is a versatile spread that can be used on crackers, sandwiches, and burgers.

It also works as a dip for vegetables, a filling for grilled cheese, or a topping for baked potatoes and deviled eggs. Its rich and creamy texture makes it a flavorful addition to many dishes.

What Pimento Cheese Is Made In Pawleys Island?

Pawleys Island Palmetto Cheese Recipe, a well-known brand of pimento cheese, originates from Pawleys Island, South Carolina.

 It was first created at the historic Sea View Inn and has since gained popularity for its homemade taste and high-quality ingredients.

What Kind Of Cheese Is Palmetto?

Pawleys Island Palmetto Cheese Recipe is a type of pimento cheese spread made primarily with sharp cheddar cheese.

 It is known for its rich, creamy texture and slightly tangy flavor, enhanced by pimentos and seasonings. This Southern specialty is often enjoyed as a dip, spread, or topping.

Conclusion

The Pawleys Island Palmetto Cheese Recipe is a delightful and easy-to-make Southern classic that brings a burst of flavor to any occasion.

Enjoying it as a dip, spreading it on sandwiches, or serving it with crackers, this creamy, cheesy treat never disappoints.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and versatility, allowing you to customize it to suit your taste preferences.

With just a few ingredients and a little time, you can bring a taste of South Carolina into your own home. I hope you give this recipe a try and enjoy the comforting flavors of Pawleys Island Palmetto Cheese as much as I do!