Creative Uses for Light Cream Cheese

Light cream cheese is a staple in my kitchen. I love its tangy flavor and creamy texture and it melts like a dream and spreads smoothly. It's also a great way to make light and healthy dishes taste decadent and rich. While it's perfect in its simplest form, whether spread on a toasted bagel or whipped into frosting, there are lots of ways to use this versatile cheese.

Generally I purchase the store brand of reduced fat cream cheese because it's less expensive and has good flavor. However if I'm using it in something like a cheesecake or for an appetizer spread I'll use Philadelphia brand which has the best flavor and texture, hands down.

If you want a really pretty and easy appetizer, mix together softened light cream cheese with homemade or store-bought pesto. Spread over slices of grilled or toasted French bread and top with chopped, fresh tomatoes drizzled with a little good quality olive oil, salt and pepper. Serve at room temperature.

Mix light cream cheese with minced garlic, salt, pepper, fresh or dried Italian herbs, and ¼ cup each shredded lowfat mozzarella and Parmigiano. Form into small one inch balls with a melon baler or a spoon. Place in the freezer until slightly hardened. Mix up your favorite meatball mixture and form two inch balls around smaller cheese balls. Bake in the oven at 375 until meatballs are cooked through. The cheese will melt out as you cut into them, making a creamy sauce. You can also do this with hamburgers. Serve with marinara and pasta or pasta dressed in some olive oil, salt and pepper.

Make a sweet spread for breakfast, dessert, or a quick snack. Thin out light cream cheese with some light coconut milk and a teaspoon of pure vanilla extract. Drain a can of crushed pineapple and mix into cheese mixture along with a handful of dried coconut flakes. You can also add some sugar, honey, or Splenda if you want it sweeter, or leave it out for a less sweet version. You can use this as a fruit dip, spread it over toasted raisin or banana bread, spread over graham crackers, or even use it as a topping for blueberry or banana muffins.