Its Tailgating time! As much as we love the fun surrounding fall sports – we don’t love most of the food that’s served up to fans and friends. Here’s an idea for a real crowd pleasing appetizer that’s just the perfect mix of indulgence AND better-for-you veggies.

Paprika plays a key role in the rich, smoky flavor of this pimento cheese. It’s smoky flavor from the sweet Spanish paprika that adds all the yum. This paprika is the same pepper used in traditional Hungarian paprika, but before the peppers are dried and powdered, they are smoked to create a smoky taste. We use this paprika in everything from soups and stews to dips – even as a substitute for ham, turkey or bacon in our greens!

The deep red color of paprika brings carotenoids to the recipe. These carotenoids act as antioxidants in your body and protect from cellular damage. One tablespoon of paprika contains Vitamin A, zeaxanthin and lutein for healthy eye sight.

Make sure to use a healthy dipper like these beautiful small peppers in the picture above to serve up your pimento cheese!

Tailgating Pimento Cheese

1/2  Cup Light Olive Oil Mayonnaise

½ Cup Non fat Greek Yogurt

3 Roasted Red Peppers, Minced

2 Tsp Coarse Grain Mustard

2 or 3 Dashes Hot Sauce

1 LB Extra Sharp Cheddar, Grated, (we like Cabot 50% less fat)

1 Tsp Smoked Sweet Paprika

1/2 Tsp Black Pepper

1 Bunch Basil, Julienned

Add the mayonnaise, yogurt, red peppers, mustard, hot sauce, cheddar and black pepper to a large bowl. Mix to combine the ingredients. Garnish with the basil if desired.