Low calorie clam dip for vegetables

Introduction

History

Clam dip has been a popular party food for decades, often served with chips or crackers. This low calorie version swaps out the traditional mayonnaise for cottage cheese, reducing the fat content while still maintaining the creamy texture and savory flavor.

Ingredients

How to prepare

Variations

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to drain the clams well before adding them to the dip to prevent excess liquid. For a smoother texture, blend the cottage cheese in a food processor before mixing in the other ingredients. Adjust the seasonings to taste, adding more salt or herbs as desired.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this low calorie clam dip with a variety of fresh vegetables such as carrots, celery, bell peppers, and cucumber slices. It also pairs well with whole grain crackers or pita chips for a heartier snack.

Cooking Techniques

This clam dip recipe requires no cooking, simply mix all the ingredients together and serve. It can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator until ready to enjoy.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have cottage cheese on hand, you can substitute Greek yogurt for a similar creamy texture. You can also use canned tuna or salmon in place of the clams for a different seafood flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

This clam dip can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just give it a good stir before serving to recombine the ingredients.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the clam dip with a sprinkle of paprika or additional chopped chives for a pop of color. Serve it in a decorative bowl surrounded by an assortment of colorful vegetables for a visually appealing presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

This low calorie clam dip pairs well with a crisp white wine or a light beer. It also goes nicely with a side of fresh fruit or a simple green salad for a well-rounded snack or light meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover clam dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave the dip for 30 seconds or until warmed through, stirring halfway through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

This low calorie clam dip contains approximately 70 calories per serving.

Carbohydrates

This clam dip recipe contains approximately 5 grams of carbohydrates per serving.

Fats

With the use of cottage cheese instead of mayonnaise, this dip is lower in fat, containing only 2 grams per serving.

Proteins

Each serving of this clam dip provides 10 grams of protein, making it a satisfying and filling snack option.

Vitamins and minerals

Clams are a good source of iron and vitamin B12, while cottage cheese provides calcium and vitamin D. The chives and thyme add additional vitamins and antioxidants to the dip.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy from the cottage cheese and shellfish from the clams. It may not be suitable for those with lactose intolerance or shellfish allergies.

Summary

Overall, this low calorie clam dip is a nutritious option for those looking to enjoy a flavorful snack without the guilt. It is high in protein and low in fat, making it a satisfying and healthy choice.

Summary

This low calorie clam dip is a delicious and nutritious option for those looking to enjoy a flavorful snack without all the guilt. Packed with protein and flavor, it is perfect for pairing with fresh vegetables or whole grain crackers for a satisfying and healthy treat.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I knew it was something I had to try. I was at a potluck gathering with my friends, and one of them had brought this delicious low calorie clam dip for vegetables. I had never tasted anything like it before, and I immediately asked for the recipe. My friend told me that she had gotten it from her aunt, who was a fantastic cook, and had passed it down to her. I was determined to learn how to make this dip myself, so I asked my friend if she could arrange for me to meet her aunt.

A few days later, I found myself in the cozy kitchen of my friend's aunt, who greeted me with a warm smile. She was a petite woman with gray hair pulled back into a bun, and she had a twinkle in her eye that told me she was a woman of many talents. She handed me a cup of tea and we sat down at the kitchen table, where she proceeded to teach me the secrets of her famous clam dip.

The first step, she said, was to drain a can of chopped clams and reserve the clam juice. Then, in a mixing bowl, I was to combine low-fat cream cheese, plain Greek yogurt, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and a dash of hot sauce. I was surprised to learn that the base of the dip was made with healthy ingredients, which explained its low calorie count.

As we mixed the ingredients together, my friend's aunt shared stories of how she had learned to cook from her own grandmother, who had been a chef in a fancy restaurant in Paris. She passed down her love of food and cooking to her daughter, who in turn had passed it down to my friend. It was a tradition that had been carried on for generations, and I felt honored to be a part of it now.

After the dip was well mixed, we gently folded in the chopped clams and a handful of chopped green onions. The aroma that wafted from the bowl was heavenly, and I couldn't wait to taste the finished product. My friend's aunt scooped some of the dip onto a plate and handed me a carrot stick to try it with. I took a bite and was instantly transported to a seaside picnic, with the flavors of the ocean mingling with the tanginess of the yogurt and lemon.

I knew then that this recipe would become a staple in my own repertoire of dishes. It was light and refreshing, perfect for summer gatherings and picnics. My friend's aunt wrote down the recipe for me on a card, and I promised to make it for my next potluck.

As I left her kitchen that day, I felt grateful for the opportunity to learn from such a talented cook. I knew that I would cherish this recipe for years to come, passing it down to my own grandchildren one day. Cooking was more than just following instructions; it was a way to connect with others, to share stories and memories, and to create something delicious and nourishing for the ones we love.

And so, every time I make that low calorie clam dip for vegetables, I think of my friend's aunt and the wonderful afternoon I spent in her kitchen. The recipe may have come from her, but the joy and satisfaction I feel when I make it are all my own. Cooking truly is a labor of love, and I am grateful for the opportunity to continue the tradition for generations to come.

Categories

| American Recipes | Chives Recipes | Cottage Cheese Recipes | Low-calorie Recipes | Thyme Recipes |

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