Cilantro Dip
Cilantro Dip Recipe - Authentic Mexican Recipe
Introduction
Cilantro dip is a creamy and flavorful dip that is perfect for parties, gatherings, or just as a snack. This dip is made with feta cheese, cream cheese, green Mexican sauce, and fresh cilantro, giving it a unique and delicious taste.
History
The origins of cilantro dip are not clear, but cilantro is a popular herb used in many cuisines around the world. The combination of feta cheese and cilantro creates a tangy and refreshing dip that is sure to be a hit with your friends and family.
Ingredients
- 1 package (6 oz (170 g)) of reduced-fat feta cheese
- 1 cup of fat-free milk
- 1 package (8 oz (227 g)) of fat-free cream cheese
- 1 can (8 oz (227 g)) of green Mexican sauce
- 0.25 cup of chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 garlic clove
How to prepare
- Cut the feta into 1-inch pieces.
- Place the feta in a bowl and add milk. Cover and chill for 8 hours to reduce sodium content. Drain.
- In a food processor, combine the feta cheese, cream cheese, and the next 3 ingredients. Process until smooth, stopping to scrape down the sides.
- Chill the mixture for 30 minutes.
- Serve with baked tortilla chips or fresh vegetables.
Variations
- Add a squeeze of lime juice for a tangy twist.
- Mix in some diced jalapenos for a spicy kick.
- Top the dip with chopped tomatoes or black olives for added flavor.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Make sure to drain the feta cheese after soaking it in milk to reduce the sodium content.
- Chill the dip for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Serve the dip with baked tortilla chips or fresh vegetables for a delicious and healthy snack.
Serving Suggestions
Serve cilantro dip with baked tortilla chips, fresh vegetables, or pita bread.
Cooking Techniques
Soak the feta cheese in milk to reduce the sodium content.
- Use a food processor to blend the ingredients until smooth.
Ingredient Substitutions
Use regular feta cheese instead of reduced-fat feta cheese.
- Substitute Greek yogurt for cream cheese for a lighter dip.
Make Ahead Tips
Cilantro dip can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Presentation Ideas
Serve cilantro dip in a decorative bowl garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Pairing Recommendations
Cilantro dip pairs well with margaritas, Mexican beer, or a refreshing cucumber mint cooler.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store leftover cilantro dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Each serving of cilantro dip contains approximately 150 calories.
Carbohydrates
Each serving of cilantro dip contains approximately 3 grams of carbohydrates.
Fats
Each serving of cilantro dip contains approximately 10 grams of fat.
Proteins
Each serving of cilantro dip contains approximately 5 grams of protein.
Vitamins and minerals
Cilantro dip is a good source of calcium, vitamin A, and vitamin C.
Alergens
Cilantro dip contains dairy (feta cheese, cream cheese) and may contain allergens such as milk.
Summary
Cilantro dip is a creamy and flavorful dip that is relatively low in carbohydrates and high in fats and proteins. It is also a good source of calcium and vitamins A and C.
Summary
Cilantro dip is a delicious and creamy dip that is perfect for parties, gatherings, or just as a snack. With its unique combination of feta cheese, cream cheese, green Mexican sauce, and fresh cilantro, this dip is sure to be a hit with your friends and family.
How did I get this recipe?
I vividly recall the moment I first laid eyes on this recipe for Cilantro Dip. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Maria in her cozy kitchen. Maria was a wonderful cook, and I always admired the way she effortlessly whipped up delicious dishes.
On that particular day, Maria had just returned from a trip to Mexico, and she was eager to share a new recipe she had learned during her travels. As she pulled out the ingredients for Cilantro Dip, I watched in awe as she expertly chopped fresh cilantro, minced garlic, and squeezed limes with ease.
I was captivated by the vibrant green color of the dip and the fragrant aroma of the herbs and spices. As Maria mixed the ingredients together, she explained that the dip was a popular condiment in Mexican cuisine, often served with tacos, quesadillas, or as a simple appetizer with tortilla chips.
I eagerly tasted a spoonful of the Cilantro Dip and was instantly hooked. The fresh flavors of the cilantro, garlic, and lime danced on my taste buds, leaving me craving more. Maria laughed at my enthusiasm and insisted that I take note of the recipe so I could make it at home.
I carefully wrote down each ingredient and measurement, making sure not to miss a single detail. Maria shared that she had learned the recipe from her grandmother, who had passed it down through the generations. She explained that the key to the dip's delicious flavor was using the freshest ingredients and allowing the flavors to meld together for at least an hour before serving.
Over the years, I have made Maria's Cilantro Dip countless times, each batch bringing back memories of that sunny day in her kitchen. I have shared the recipe with friends and family, who have all fallen in love with the fresh and zesty flavors of the dip.
One of my favorite memories of making the Cilantro Dip was with my own granddaughter, Emily. She had always been curious about my recipes and loved helping me in the kitchen. One day, as we were preparing for a family gathering, Emily asked if she could learn how to make the Cilantro Dip.
I was overjoyed at the prospect of passing down this beloved recipe to the next generation. Together, Emily and I gathered the ingredients and set to work chopping, mincing, and mixing. As we worked side by side, I shared the story of how I had learned the recipe from Maria and the importance of using fresh herbs and citrus.
Emily listened intently, her eyes wide with wonder as she watched the ingredients come together to form the vibrant green dip. When we finally tasted the finished product, Emily's face lit up with delight as she exclaimed, "It's so good, Grandma!"
I smiled with pride, knowing that I had passed down not just a recipe, but a piece of my culinary heritage to my granddaughter. As we sat down to enjoy the Cilantro Dip with our family, I felt a sense of joy and contentment, knowing that the tradition of sharing delicious food and cherished recipes would continue for generations to come.
And so, as I sit here reminiscing about that fateful day in Maria's kitchen, I am filled with gratitude for the delicious Cilantro Dip recipe that has brought so much joy and connection to my life. It is a recipe that holds a special place in my heart, a reminder of the bonds of friendship, family, and the love that we share through food.
Categories
| Cream Cheese Recipes | Dip Recipes | Feta Recipes | Low-fat Recipes | Mexican Recipes |