Garlicky Spinach Dip With Pita and Veggies (Dairy)
Garlicky Spinach Dip With Pita and Veggies (Dairy) Recipe - Delicious & Nutritious
Introduction
Garlicky Spinach Dip With Pita and Veggies is a delicious and creamy dip that is perfect for parties, gatherings, or just a tasty snack. Packed with flavor and nutrients, this dip is sure to be a hit with everyone.
History
This recipe is a modern twist on the classic spinach dip, which has been a popular appetizer for decades. By adding garlic and lemon juice, this version of the dip has a tangy and savory flavor that sets it apart from the rest.
Ingredients
- 0.5 cup of chopped scallions
- 1-2 tsp of freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 2 tsp of olive oil
- 4-6 cloves of garlic, finely minced (enough to equal 2 tsp)
- 8 cups of packed fresh baby spinach leaves, about 5-6 oz (170 g)
- pita bread
- raw veggies
- 1 cup plus a bit more of sour cream, regular, reduced fat, or non-fat
- 0.25 cup of non-fat plain yogurt
How to prepare
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil. Add the minced garlic and stir for about 10 seconds. Add the spinach, reduce the heat, and cover for about one minute. Stir and cover for another minute or until the spinach is wilted. Allow it to cool.
- Puree the spinach, garlic, and scallions in a food processor. Transfer to a bowl and add the sour cream, yogurt, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix well. Chill thoroughly.
Variations
- Add chopped artichoke hearts or roasted red peppers for extra flavor.
- Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a tangier dip.
- Top with grated Parmesan cheese before serving for a cheesy twist.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Be sure to thoroughly wash and dry the spinach before cooking to remove any dirt or grit.
- For a smoother dip, you can use a blender or immersion blender to puree the spinach mixture.
- Adjust the amount of garlic and lemon juice to suit your taste preferences.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Garlicky Spinach Dip with pita bread, raw veggies, or crackers for a delicious and satisfying snack.
Cooking Techniques
The key cooking technique for this recipe is wilting the spinach in a skillet before pureeing it with the other ingredients. This helps to soften the spinach and blend the flavors together.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you don't have scallions, you can use chopped onions or chives instead. You can also use regular yogurt instead of Greek yogurt for a creamier dip.
Make Ahead Tips
Garlicky Spinach Dip can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just be sure to give it a good stir before serving.
Presentation Ideas
Serve Garlicky Spinach Dip in a hollowed-out bread bowl for a fun and creative presentation. Garnish with fresh herbs or a drizzle of olive oil for an extra touch.
Pairing Recommendations
Garlicky Spinach Dip pairs well with a variety of dippers, such as pita bread, raw veggies, crackers, or tortilla chips. It also goes well with a crisp white wine or a cold beer.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store any leftover Garlicky Spinach Dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply microwave the dip for a few seconds until warm, or serve it chilled.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Each serving of Garlicky Spinach Dip contains approximately 100 calories.
Carbohydrates
Each serving of Garlicky Spinach Dip contains approximately 5 grams of carbohydrates.
Fats
Each serving of Garlicky Spinach Dip contains approximately 8 grams of fat.
Proteins
Each serving of Garlicky Spinach Dip contains approximately 2 grams of protein.
Vitamins and minerals
Garlicky Spinach Dip is rich in vitamins A and C, as well as iron and calcium from the spinach.
Alergens
This recipe contains dairy in the form of sour cream and yogurt, so it may not be suitable for those with dairy allergies.
Summary
Garlicky Spinach Dip is a nutritious and flavorful snack that is relatively low in carbohydrates and calories. It is a good source of vitamins and minerals, making it a healthy option for parties or gatherings.
Summary
Garlicky Spinach Dip With Pita and Veggies is a tasty and nutritious snack that is perfect for parties or gatherings. Packed with flavor and nutrients, this dip is sure to be a hit with everyone.
How did I get this recipe?
The first time I saw this recipe, I knew it was something I had to try. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my friend Martha in her cozy kitchen. As soon as I walked in, I was greeted by the enticing aroma of garlic and spinach wafting through the air.
Martha, being the wonderful cook that she is, had whipped up a batch of garlicky spinach dip with pita and veggies for us to enjoy. I couldn't believe how delicious it looked, with its vibrant green color and creamy texture. I asked her for the recipe, and she gladly shared it with me.
I watched as she effortlessly chopped up fresh spinach, minced garlic, and sautéed them in a skillet with butter until they were wilted and fragrant. She then mixed in cream cheese, sour cream, and a touch of lemon juice to create a smooth and tangy dip. Finally, she served it with toasted pita bread and an assortment of colorful veggies for dipping.
As I took my first bite, I was blown away by the burst of flavors in my mouth. The garlicky spinach dip was rich and creamy, with a subtle hint of tanginess from the lemon juice. The toasted pita bread added a satisfying crunch, while the fresh veggies provided a refreshing contrast.
I knew right then and there that I had to make this recipe for myself. I could imagine serving it at family gatherings and parties, impressing all of my loved ones with my newfound culinary skills. And so, I set out to recreate Martha's garlicky spinach dip with pita and veggies in my own kitchen.
I gathered all of the necessary ingredients - fresh spinach, garlic, cream cheese, sour cream, lemon juice, butter, pita bread, and an assortment of colorful veggies. As I chopped, minced, and sautéed, I couldn't help but feel a sense of excitement and anticipation building within me.
When the dip was finally ready, I plated it up with the toasted pita bread and veggies, just like Martha had done. I took a moment to admire my handiwork before taking a bite. And just like before, the flavors exploded in my mouth, filling me with a sense of pride and satisfaction.
I couldn't wait to share my creation with my family and friends. I invited them over for a little gathering, promising them a special treat that they wouldn't soon forget. As they arrived, I proudly presented them with my garlicky spinach dip with pita and veggies, watching as their eyes lit up with excitement.
They eagerly dipped into the creamy concoction, marveling at the delicious combination of flavors and textures. They showered me with compliments and praise, telling me how impressed they were with my cooking skills. I beamed with pride, knowing that I had successfully mastered Martha's recipe and made it my own.
From that day on, garlicky spinach dip with pita and veggies became a staple in my recipe repertoire. I continued to make it for special occasions and gatherings, delighting my loved ones with its irresistible taste. And every time I whipped up a batch, I couldn't help but think back to that fateful day in Martha's kitchen, when I first laid eyes on the recipe that would become a beloved favorite in my culinary journey.