Aunt Mary's Party Spread
Aunt Mary's Party Spread Recipe - Delicious and Impressive
Introduction
Aunt Mary's Party Spread is a delightful and easy-to-make recipe that promises to be a hit at any gathering. This savory spread combines the rich flavors of deviled ham with the zesty kick of horseradish and hot pepper sauce, balanced with the freshness of parsley and the tangy bite of black olives. It's versatile enough to be served on bread or used to fill celery stalks, making it a perfect appetizer for parties, picnics, or as a snack during game nights.
History
The origins of Aunt Mary's Party Spread trace back to family gatherings and community potlucks where Aunt Mary, a beloved family cook, would bring her signature dish. Over the years, it became a much-requested recipe for its simplicity, delicious taste, and the fond memories it evoked. Passed down through generations, this recipe has stood the test of time, adapting to modern tastes while retaining its classic charm.
Ingredients
- 1 can of deviled ham (4.5 oz (128 g))
- 1 tbsp of horseradish
- 0.5 tbsp of hot pepper sauce
- 1 tbsp of chopped parsley or parsley flakes
- 2 tbsp of black olives, finely minced
- 4 tbsp of mayonnaise or enough to make a creamy mixture
- 6 to 8 slices of bread or celery stalks
How to prepare
- In a bowl, combine ham, horseradish, Tabasco, parsley, olive, and mayonnaise. Mix well.
- Spread the mixture on bread and cut into quarters, or fill celery stalks and sprinkle with paprika.
- Serves 4.
- Source: My Old Recipes.
Variations
- Consider adding diced pickles or capers for an extra tang. For a spicier kick, increase the amount of hot pepper sauce. Vegetarians can substitute deviled ham with mashed chickpeas.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
For the best flavor, let the spread sit for an hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld. If you prefer a smoother texture, you can blend the ingredients in a food processor. Adjust the amount of mayonnaise to achieve your desired consistency. For a lighter version, substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the spread on whole-grain bread or crackers for added fiber. It also pairs well with a variety of fresh vegetables, such as cucumber slices or carrot sticks, for a healthier option.
Cooking Techniques
No cooking is required for this recipe, making it an excellent choice for quick preparation. Mixing the ingredients thoroughly is key to achieving the perfect flavor and consistency.
Ingredient Substitutions
For a healthier version, substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or avocado. If horseradish is too strong, try using Dijon mustard for a milder flavor.
Make Ahead Tips
This spread can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator, allowing the flavors to develop further. Just be sure to give it a good stir before serving.
Presentation Ideas
For an elegant presentation, pipe the spread onto cucumber slices or into cherry tomatoes. Garnish with a sprinkle of paprika or a sprig of parsley.
Pairing Recommendations
Aunt Mary's Party Spread pairs beautifully with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, or a light beer. It also complements a variety of cheeses and cured meats for a fuller appetizer spread.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This spread does not require reheating and is best served chilled.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
A single serving of Aunt Mary's Party Spread contains approximately 150-200 calories, making it a moderate-calorie option for an appetizer or snack.
Carbohydrates
A serving of Aunt Mary's Party Spread contains approximately 2-3 grams of carbohydrates, mainly from the parsley flakes and black olives. This low carbohydrate content makes it a suitable option for those following a low-carb diet.
Fats
The majority of the fat in this recipe comes from the mayonnaise and the deviled ham. A serving contains about 10-15 grams of fat, depending on the type of mayonnaise used. Opting for a low-fat or olive oil-based mayonnaise can reduce the fat content.
Proteins
Each serving of Aunt Mary's Party Spread provides around 7-10 grams of protein, thanks to the deviled ham. This makes it a good option for a protein-rich snack.
Vitamins and minerals
This recipe offers a range of vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin C from the parsley and horseradish, as well as iron and calcium from the olives and deviled ham. It's a nutritious addition to any meal or snack.
Alergens
Common allergens in this recipe include eggs (in mayonnaise) and fish (some brands of deviled ham may contain fish products). Always check the labels of your ingredients if you have food allergies.
Summary
Aunt Mary's Party Spread is a low-carbohydrate, moderate-fat, and protein-rich appetizer. It offers a good balance of vitamins and minerals, with a moderate calorie count. Be mindful of potential allergens.
Summary
Aunt Mary's Party Spread is a timeless recipe that combines simplicity with delicious flavors. Whether you're hosting a party or looking for a tasty snack, this spread is sure to please. With options for customization and make-ahead preparation, it's a versatile addition to any culinary repertoire.
How did I get this recipe?
The memory of discovering this recipe for the first time is a cherished one. It was many years ago, back when I was just a young girl eager to learn the ways of the kitchen. I had always been fascinated by the art of cooking, watching my own mother and grandmother create delicious meals from scratch. But it wasn't until I attended Aunt Mary's party that I stumbled upon a recipe that would become a staple in my own kitchen.
Aunt Mary was known for her extravagant parties, always filled with delicious food and lively conversation. I remember being in awe of her ability to effortlessly whip up dishes that tantalized the taste buds of all her guests. It was at one of these parties that I first tasted Aunt Mary's Party Spread.
The spread was a creamy and flavorful concoction, perfect for slathering on crackers or spreading on a slice of crusty bread. I couldn't get enough of it, and I made sure to ask Aunt Mary for the recipe before the night was over. She smiled and told me that it was a family secret, passed down from generation to generation. But she could see the longing in my eyes, and she graciously agreed to share it with me.
I took the recipe home and studied it diligently, making sure to follow each step with precision. The ingredients were simple enough - cream cheese, mayonnaise, green onions, and Worcestershire sauce - but it was the method of combining them that made all the difference. Aunt Mary had a special touch, a way of blending the flavors together that created something truly magical.
As I made the Party Spread for the first time, I could feel Aunt Mary's presence in the kitchen with me. I could almost hear her encouraging words and feel her guiding hand as I mixed and stirred. And when I finally took a bite of the finished spread, I knew that I had unlocked a culinary treasure.
From that day on, Aunt Mary's Party Spread became a staple at all of my own gatherings. I would proudly serve it to friends and family, watching as their eyes lit up with delight at the first taste. And I made sure to pass the recipe along to my own children and grandchildren, keeping the tradition alive for generations to come.
Over the years, I have added my own twist to the recipe, experimenting with different herbs and spices to make it my own. But the essence of Aunt Mary's Party Spread remains the same - a delicious and versatile treat that never fails to impress.
As I sit here now, reflecting on that fateful day when I first discovered the recipe, I am filled with gratitude for Aunt Mary and her generosity in sharing her culinary secrets with me. It is a memory that I will always hold dear, a reminder of the power of food to bring people together and create lasting connections.
And so, as I prepare to make Aunt Mary's Party Spread once again for an upcoming gathering, I do so with a heart full of love and appreciation for the woman who unknowingly sparked my lifelong passion for cooking. Thank you, Aunt Mary, for your delicious spread and the memories it has given me.