34+ Irresistible Italian Bread Spread Recipes to Elevate Your Loaf

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When it comes to Italian cuisine, bread is an essential component of every meal.

Whether served alongside a rich pasta dish or enjoyed on its own with a drizzle of olive oil, Italian bread is a true delight.

But why settle for just plain bread when you can elevate your bread game with flavorful spreads?

From savory to sweet, there are countless Italian bread spread recipes that can transform your simple loaf into a gourmet treat.

In this blog post, we’ll explore over 34 mouthwatering Italian bread spread recipes that will add an extra layer of deliciousness to your next meal.

Whether you’re in the mood for something fresh and herbaceous or creamy and indulgent, these recipes will give you plenty of options to choose from!

34+ Irresistible Italian Bread Spread Recipes to Elevate Your Loaf

Italian bread spreads are a simple yet impactful way to elevate any meal.

With over 34 recipes at your fingertips, you’re sure to discover new and exciting ways to enjoy your bread, whether as an appetizer, side dish, or snack.

These spreads not only enhance the flavor of your bread but also bring a taste of Italy right to your kitchen.

So next time you’re planning a meal, skip the plain butter and try one of these unique and delicious spreads instead.

Italian Ricotta and Herb Spread

This creamy, tangy spread combines the smooth texture of ricotta cheese with fresh Italian herbs, making it a perfect accompaniment for low-carb bread options. Rich in protein and low in carbs, this spread is ideal for a keto lunch. It can be used as a topping for crackers or veggies, adding a deliciously fresh and savory flavor to your meal.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 2 tbsp fresh basil, chopped
  • 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 tbsp fresh oregano, chopped
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 tsp lemon zest

Instructions:

  1. In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, minced garlic, and lemon zest.
  2. Add the chopped basil, parsley, and oregano, mixing until the herbs are evenly distributed.
  3. Drizzle the olive oil over the mixture and stir well to combine.
  4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  5. Serve immediately with keto-friendly bread or store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

This ricotta and herb spread offers a flavorful, creamy option that enhances any keto lunch. Its refreshing herbal notes balance the richness of the cheese, making it a satisfying yet low-carb choice. Whether enjoyed as a spread on zucchini bread or as a dip for veggies, it’s a quick and easy way to elevate your low-carb meals.

Sundried Tomato and Parmesan Spread

This savory spread combines the tangy flavor of sun-dried tomatoes with the sharpness of Parmesan cheese. It’s a fantastic choice for keto diets due to its low-carb content and high-fat profile. The robust flavor makes it an excellent addition to low-carb crackers, bread, or even as a topping for grilled vegetables.

Ingredients:

  • 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes (in oil, drained)
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tbsp cream cheese, softened
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp fresh basil, chopped
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

  1. In a food processor, combine the sun-dried tomatoes, Parmesan cheese, and cream cheese.
  2. Add the olive oil, garlic powder, and fresh basil. Process until smooth and creamy.
  3. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed.
  4. Serve immediately or refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 5 days.

The sun-dried tomato and Parmesan spread is bursting with flavor, making it a perfect addition to any keto lunch. It’s not only delicious but also incredibly versatile, pairing well with a variety of low-carb options. Whether as a dip for your veggies or spread on a keto roll, this savory delight is sure to satisfy your cravings without compromising your diet.

Creamy Pesto Spread

This pesto-based spread brings together the rich, aromatic flavors of basil, garlic, pine nuts, and Parmesan in a creamy, spreadable form. Ideal for a keto-friendly lunch, the creamy pesto spread can be used on any low-carb bread, making it a satisfying addition to your meal while keeping carbs to a minimum.

Ingredients:

  • 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves
  • 2 tbsp pine nuts
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 clove garlic
  • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 oz cream cheese, softened
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

  1. In a food processor, combine the basil, pine nuts, garlic, and Parmesan cheese.
  2. Pulse until finely chopped, then slowly drizzle in the olive oil while processing until smooth.
  3. Add the softened cream cheese to the mixture and pulse until fully incorporated.
  4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  5. Store in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days.

This creamy pesto spread delivers a rich and aromatic burst of flavor to any keto meal. The creaminess from the cheese and olive oil balances perfectly with the fresh basil and garlic, making it an ideal topping or dip. It’s the perfect way to add a fresh and flavorful punch to your low-carb lunch while staying within keto-friendly guidelines.

italian Olive Tapenade Spread

This Italian olive tapenade spread is a Mediterranean-inspired treat made with briny olives, capers, and a hint of garlic, all blended together to create a savory, low-carb topping. It’s packed with healthy fats and bold flavors, making it an ideal choice for a keto lunch. Whether used as a spread or a dip, this tapenade pairs wonderfully with low-carb bread or veggie sticks.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
  • 1/2 cup green olives, pitted
  • 2 tbsp capers, drained
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • Fresh thyme, for garnish (optional)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

  1. In a food processor, combine the Kalamata olives, green olives, capers, and minced garlic.
  2. Pulse until the mixture becomes a coarse paste, scraping down the sides as necessary.
  3. Add the lemon juice and olive oil and pulse again until smooth and spreadable.
  4. Taste and season with salt and pepper as desired.
  5. Garnish with fresh thyme if desired and serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 4 days.

This olive tapenade spread brings a delightful Mediterranean twist to your keto lunch. The combination of olives, capers, and garlic creates a rich and tangy flavor profile that complements any low-carb bread or cracker. It’s perfect for adding a zesty, flavorful touch to your meal, making your lunch both satisfying and low in carbs.

Goat Cheese and Walnut Spread

This creamy spread pairs tangy goat cheese with the earthy flavor of toasted walnuts, making it a savory yet slightly nutty addition to any keto meal. Rich in protein and healthy fats, it works wonderfully on low-carb bread or as a dip for vegetables, providing a filling and flavorful option for your lunch.

Ingredients:

  • 4 oz goat cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup toasted walnuts, chopped
  • 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
  • 1 tbsp honey (optional, for a touch of sweetness)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

  1. In a medium bowl, combine the goat cheese and olive oil. Mix until smooth and creamy.
  2. Fold in the chopped toasted walnuts and fresh rosemary.
  3. If desired, add a small drizzle of honey for a touch of sweetness to balance the tanginess of the goat cheese.
  4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  5. Serve immediately with low-carb bread or crackers, or store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

The goat cheese and walnut spread is an indulgent, yet keto-friendly, choice that adds a creamy, savory touch to your lunch. The walnuts provide a satisfying crunch, while the rosemary and honey elevate the flavors. Whether served as a spread on low-carb crackers or paired with grilled vegetables, this spread will quickly become a favorite part of your keto meals.

Artichoke and Parmesan Spread

This artichoke and Parmesan spread is a delightful, creamy blend of artichoke hearts and sharp Parmesan cheese. ith the added richness from olive oil and a touch of garlic, it’s a low-carb, keto-friendly spread that’s perfect for lunch. It works wonderfully on low-carb breads, as a dip for vegetables, or as a topping for grilled chicken.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup canned or frozen artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp cream cheese, softened
  • 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

  1. In a food processor, combine the artichoke hearts, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, and garlic.
  2. Process until the mixture becomes a smooth, creamy paste.
  3. Add the cream cheese and lemon juice, and pulse again until well combined.
  4. Taste and season with salt and pepper as desired.
  5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 4 days in an airtight container.

The artichoke and Parmesan spread is rich, creamy, and bursting with flavor, making it an excellent choice for a keto lunch. Its smooth texture and sharp, tangy taste make it a versatile option for low-carb bread, crackers, or even as a topping for meats. It’s an easy, flavorful way to elevate your low-carb meals without compromising your dietary goals.

Avocado and Roasted Red Pepper Spread

This creamy and vibrant spread combines the smooth texture of ripe avocados with the smoky sweetness of roasted red peppers. The addition of garlic and lemon juice brings balance to the flavor, making it a refreshing yet rich option for a keto lunch. It’s perfect as a spread for low-carb bread or as a dip for crunchy vegetables.

Ingredients:

  • 1 ripe avocado
  • 1/2 cup roasted red peppers, drained and chopped
  • 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

  1. In a medium bowl, mash the avocado until smooth.
  2. Add the chopped roasted red peppers, lemon juice, and minced garlic to the mashed avocado.
  3. Drizzle in the olive oil and stir until well combined.
  4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  5. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 days.

This avocado and roasted red pepper spread is a deliciously creamy option with a hint of smokiness, making it an excellent addition to your keto lunch. It’s perfect for spreading on low-carb toast, crackers, or veggies. The healthy fats from the avocado combined with the vibrant flavor of roasted red peppers make this spread both satisfying and nutritious.

Mascarpone and Lemon Herb Spread

A rich and zesty spread that combines the creamy sweetness of mascarpone cheese with the fresh brightness of lemon and herbs. This low-carb spread is perfect for adding a smooth, flavorful touch to your keto lunch, whether as a topping for low-carb bread or as a dip for vegetables. It’s a luxurious and refreshing way to enhance your meal without adding carbs.

Ingredients:

  • 1/2 cup mascarpone cheese
  • 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 tbsp fresh chives, chopped
  • 1/2 tsp lemon zest
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

  1. In a bowl, combine the mascarpone cheese, lemon juice, lemon zest, and chopped herbs.
  2. Mix until the spread is smooth and creamy.
  3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  4. Serve immediately with keto bread, crackers, or veggies, or refrigerate for up to 3 days.

The mascarpone and lemon herb spread offers a rich, creamy texture balanced by the freshness of herbs and citrus. It’s the perfect spread for a light, refreshing keto lunch. Whether used on low-carb bread, as a dip for veggies, or even as a topping for grilled meats, this spread is sure to elevate your meal with minimal carbs and maximum flavor.

Smoked Salmon and Cream Cheese Spread

A luxurious yet simple spread that combines the delicate flavor of smoked salmon with rich cream cheese. This low-carb spread is full of healthy fats and high-quality protein, making it an excellent choice for a keto lunch. It’s perfect on its own or as a topping for low-carb crackers, bread, or as a filling for lettuce wraps.

Ingredients:

  • 4 oz smoked salmon, finely chopped
  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
  • 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

  1. In a bowl, combine the cream cheese, chopped smoked salmon, dill, lemon juice, and garlic powder.
  2. Stir until all ingredients are well incorporated and the spread is smooth.
  3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  4. Serve immediately with keto-friendly crackers, bread, or as a filling for lettuce wraps. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

The smoked salmon and cream cheese spread is a rich and indulgent choice for a keto lunch. The smokiness of the salmon complements the creaminess of the cheese, while the dill and lemon juice bring a fresh, aromatic touch. It’s versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways, whether spread on low-carb bread or used as a savory dip for veggies. This spread offers a delicious way to stay on track with your low-carb and keto dietary goals.

Balsamic Vinegar and Herb Cream Cheese Spread

This spread combines the smoothness of cream cheese with the tangy richness of balsamic vinegar, creating a unique and flavorful topping for your keto lunches. The addition of fresh herbs enhances the taste, making this spread an ideal companion for low-carb bread or vegetables. It’s a simple yet bold way to add a delicious, low-carb touch to your meal.

Ingredients:

  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
  • 1 tbsp fresh basil, chopped
  • 1 tbsp fresh oregano, chopped
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

  1. In a bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, balsamic vinegar, garlic powder, and fresh herbs.
  2. Stir until smooth and well incorporated.
  3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  4. Serve immediately with keto-friendly bread or veggies, or store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

This balsamic vinegar and herb cream cheese spread offers a tangy and herbaceous flavor that pairs beautifully with low-carb bread or crisp veggies. The cream cheese provides a smooth and creamy base that complements the sharpness of balsamic vinegar, making it a sophisticated yet easy spread for any keto meal.

Cilantro Lime and Avocado Spread

This vibrant spread brings together the fresh, zesty flavor of lime with the creamy richness of avocado and the bold notes of cilantro. It’s a delicious and healthy option for a low-carb lunch, perfect for spreading on keto-friendly bread or using as a dip for vegetables. Packed with healthy fats and nutrients, it’s both satisfying and full of flavor.

Ingredients:

  • 1 ripe avocado, mashed
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 1 tbsp fresh lime juice
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil (optional)

Instructions:

  1. In a bowl, mash the avocado until smooth.
  2. Add the chopped cilantro, lime juice, and garlic powder.
  3. Stir until fully combined.
  4. For an extra creamy texture, drizzle in the olive oil and mix.
  5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  6. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 days in an airtight container.

cilantro lime and avocado spread is a refreshing and creamy option that adds a burst of flavor to your keto lunch. The tanginess of lime and the freshness of cilantro pair beautifully with the richness of avocado, making this spread a delicious topping for low-carb bread, crackers, or as a dip for veggies. It’s an easy and healthy way to enhance your meal without the carbs.

Sunflower Seed and Garlic Spread

This hearty spread combines the nutty flavor of sunflower seeds with the savory punch of garlic, creating a rich and satisfying option for a keto lunch. With its creamy consistency and bold taste, it works wonderfully as a spread on low-carb bread, crackers, or as a dip for vegetables. It’s packed with healthy fats, making it a great addition to your low-carb diet.

Ingredients:

  • 1/2 cup sunflower seeds (unsalted, raw)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

  1. In a food processor, combine the sunflower seeds, olive oil, minced garlic, and smoked paprika.
  2. Process until the mixture becomes a smooth paste, adding a little more olive oil if needed to reach your desired consistency.
  3. Add the lemon juice and pulse again until well incorporated.
  4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  5. Serve immediately with low-carb bread or vegetables, or refrigerate for up to 4 days.

The sunflower seed and garlic spread is a rich, nutty, and flavorful option that brings a savory depth to any keto lunch. The sunflower seeds offer healthy fats and a creamy texture, while the garlic and smoked paprika provide a bold, aromatic flavor. It’s an excellent addition to your low-carb meals, perfect for spreading on keto-friendly crackers or used as a veggie dip for an easy and satisfying snack.

Ricotta and Lemon Zest Spread

This light and refreshing spread combines the creamy texture of ricotta cheese with the bright citrus flavor of lemon zest. It’s an ideal low-carb option for a quick keto lunch. The balance of richness from the ricotta and the zing from the lemon makes this spread versatile for pairing with keto bread, crackers, or even fresh vegetables.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1 tbsp fresh lemon zest
  • 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

  1. In a bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, lemon zest, lemon juice, and fresh thyme.
  2. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
  3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  4. Serve immediately with keto-friendly bread, crackers, or vegetables, or store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

The ricotta and lemon zest spread is a bright and creamy option that adds a refreshing citrus twist to your keto lunch. The smooth texture of the ricotta pairs perfectly with the fresh lemon and thyme, creating a light yet satisfying spread. It’s perfect for spreading on low-carb bread or crackers, making it an ideal choice for a quick, flavorful snack or meal.

Pumpkin Seed and Sage Spread

spread blends roasted pumpkin seeds with the earthy flavor of fresh sage, creating a rich and nutty topping. The addition of olive oil and garlic gives it a creamy consistency and depth of flavor, making it a delicious low-carb spread for your keto lunch. Perfect for spreading on keto bread or as a dip for veggies, this spread is both satisfying and full of healthy fats.

Ingredients:

  • 1/2 cup roasted pumpkin seeds
  • 2 tbsp fresh sage, chopped
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

  1. In a food processor, combine the roasted pumpkin seeds, chopped sage, garlic, and olive oil.
  2. Pulse until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy. Add more olive oil if necessary to achieve your desired consistency.
  3. Add lemon juice and pulse again to combine.
  4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  5. Serve immediately with low-carb crackers, bread, or vegetables, or refrigerate for up to 4 days.

The pumpkin seed and sage spread offers a hearty, earthy flavor that’s perfect for a keto lunch. The nutty pumpkin seeds combined with the aromatic sage and garlic make this spread both flavorful and filling. It’s an excellent addition to your low-carb meals, providing a nutritious and satisfying option for spreading on keto-friendly bread or as a dip for fresh veggies.

Creamy Spinach and Feta Spread

This creamy spread combines the tangy flavor of feta cheese with the earthy richness of spinach, creating a delicious and healthy spread that fits perfectly into your keto meal plan. Rich in healthy fats and low in carbs, this spread is great for pairing with low-carb bread, crackers, or as a topping for grilled vegetables and meats.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup fresh spinach, wilted and chopped
  • 4 oz feta cheese, crumbled
  • 2 tbsp cream cheese, softened
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

  1. In a skillet, sauté the spinach with a little olive oil until wilted. Let it cool and then chop it finely.
  2. In a bowl, combine the spinach, feta cheese, cream cheese, and minced garlic.
  3. Mix well until the spread is creamy and smooth.
  4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
    The creamy spinach and feta spread is a savory, tangy, and indulgent option for your keto lunch. The combination of creamy feta cheese and wilted spinach creates a rich, satisfying spread that pairs beautifully with low-carb bread or vegetables. It’s an easy, flavorful way to elevate your meals while staying within your keto diet guidelines.

Note: More recipes are coming soon