Sun-Dried Tomato Spread is a creamy, savoury appetizer made with cream cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, lavender, and spices. Rich, flavourful, and surprisingly easy to prepare, this sun-dried tomato spread with lavender is perfect for crackers, crostini, sandwiches, and appetizer boards.

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Creamy sun-dried tomato spread with herbs.

Hey, folks – I hope you’re all doing well!

Today, I’m thrilled to share another savoury lavender recipe. While lavender is often associated with desserts and drinks, it can be equally delicious in savoury dishes when used carefully. In this spread, the floral notes remain subtle and herbal, complementing the concentrated flavour of sun-dried tomatoes rather than competing with it. So, let’s dive into this savoury spread with sun-dried tomatoes and lavender!

Why You’ll Love This Sun-Dried Tomato Spread with Lavender

This Sun-Dried Tomato Spread with Lavender is simple but packed with flavour.

Easy: Requires just a few ingredients and a food processor.
Creamy: Cream cheese creates a smooth, rich texture.
Unique: Lavender adds subtle complexity.
Versatile: Works as a dip, spread, or sandwich filling.
Make-ahead friendly: The flavours improve after chilling.
Perfect for entertaining: Great on appetizer boards and crostini.

Flavour and Texture Profile

This Sun-Dried Tomato Spread is rich, creamy, savoury, and slightly smoky.

The cream cheese provides a smooth, velvety base while the sun-dried tomatoes contribute concentrated sweetness, acidity, and umami. Meanwhile, smoked paprika and chipotle add warmth and depth. Lavender remains subtle in the background, adding an herbal note that makes the spread feel a little more sophisticated.

Why Sun-Dried Tomatoes Make Such a Great Spread

Sun-dried tomatoes deliver far more flavour than fresh tomatoes.

Because much of their moisture has been removed, they offer:

Concentrated tomato flavour.
Natural sweetness.
Pleasant acidity.
Rich umami notes.
A deeper savoury character.

As a result, a relatively small amount transforms ordinary cream cheese into a flavour-packed appetizer.

Does Lavender Go with Tomatoes?

Surprisingly, yes.

Lavender works particularly well with Mediterranean ingredients, especially when used sparingly. Its herbal character complements the sweetness and acidity of tomatoes while pairing naturally with olive oil, thyme, oregano, and roasted vegetables.

In this Sun-Dried Tomato dip with Lavender, the lavender should be noticeable but subtle. The goal is complexity rather than a pronounced floral flavour.

Be sure to try this Tomato Gazpacho with Lavender and Chickpea Spread with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Lavender.

Is Lavender Traditionally Used in Mediterranean Cooking?

In some regions, yes.

Lavender is often associated with the Provence region of southeastern France. While traditional recipes vary, many modern Herbs de Provence blends include lavender alongside herbs such as thyme, rosemary, oregano, and savory.

Because of these Mediterranean associations, lavender pairs naturally with ingredients such as:

Tomatoes.
Olive oil.
Garlic.
Chickpeas.
Roasted vegetables.
Soft cheeses.

That’s one reason it works so beautifully in this spread.

Tips for Using Lavender in Savoury Recipes

Lavender can be a wonderful savoury ingredient when used with restraint.

Use culinary-grade lavender only.
Start with a small amount.
Rub or mince the buds before using.
Think herbal, not floral.
Pair it with robust ingredients such as tomatoes, chickpeas, potatoes, and cheeses.
Allow flavours to develop. Lavender often becomes slightly more noticeable after several hours.
Avoid overusing it. Too much lavender can easily overwhelm a savoury dish.

Ingredients You’ll Need for This Sun-Dried Tomato Spread with Lavender

This Sun-Dried Tomato Spread with Lavender relies on a handful of simple ingredients, each contributing something important to the final flavour.

Cream cheese: Creates a creamy, rich, and spreadable base.
Sun-dried tomatoes: Add concentrated sweetness, acidity, and savoury depth.
Oil from the tomatoes: Helps adjust the texture while reinforcing the tomato flavour.
Lavender: Adds subtle herbal complexity.
Smoked paprika: Contributes gentle smokiness.
Chipotle powder: Adds warmth and a mild smoky heat.
Salt: Balances and enhances the flavours.

How to Make Sun-Dried Tomato Spread with Lavender

Combine the cream cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, lavender, smoked paprika, chipotle powder, and a tablespoon of the reserved tomato oil in a food processor.

Blend until smooth, adding a little more reserved oil if needed to reach your preferred consistency.

Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Transfer to a serving bowl and serve with crackers, bread, or vegetables.

What to Serve with Sun-Dried Tomato Spread

This Sun-Dried Tomato Spread with Lavender is wonderfully versatile.

Try serving it with:

Crostini or toasted baguette slices.
Crackers.
Pita chips.
Fresh vegetables.
Sandwiches and wraps.
Cheese and charcuterie boards.

It also makes a delicious addition to brunch and appetizer spreads.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This Sun-Dried Tomato Spread can easily be prepared in advance.

Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Because the lavender continues to infuse the spread over time, the flavour may become slightly more pronounced after chilling.

More Appetizer and Spread Recipes

If you enjoyed this Sun-Dried Tomato Spread with Lavender, here are a few more appetizer and spread recipes you might like:

I’d love for you to try this sun-dried tomato dip with lavender. If you give it a go, please share your results in the comments, message me on Instagram, or post your photos with the hashtag #havocinthekitchen. I look forward to seeing your creations and hearing your thoughts.

Cheers!