Pecan-crusted Artichoke and Cheese Spread

Pecan-crusted Artichoke and Cheese Spread Recipe - Made in the USA

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 35 minutes | Servings: 8

Introduction

This Pecan-crusted Artichoke and Cheese Spread is a delicious and savory appetizer that is perfect for any gathering or party. The combination of artichokes, cheese, and pecans creates a rich and flavorful dish that is sure to impress your guests.

History

This recipe is a modern twist on the classic artichoke dip, which has been a popular appetizer for decades. The addition of pecans and a crunchy topping adds a new dimension of flavor and texture to the traditional dish.

Ingredients

0.25 cup butter or margarine, divided
1 medium onion, diced
2 garlic cloves, minced
4 cup coarsely chopped fresh spinach
1 can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped (14 oz (397 g))
1 pkg. cream cheese, cut up (8 oz (227 g))
0.5 cup mayonnaise
0.75 cup (3 oz (85 g)) shredded parmesan cheese, such as Sargento Fancy Supreme
1 8 oz (227 g) package 4 cheese Country Casserole or Mexican Blend Shredded cheese
0.67 cup chopped pecans
0.5 cup herb seasoned stuffing mix

How to prepare

Melt 3 tbsp of butter in a large skillet.
Add the onion and garlic.
Sauté until tender.
Add the chopped fresh spinach and cook over medium heat, stirring often, for 3 minutes.
Add the artichoke hearts and the next 4 ingredients, stirring until the cheese melts.
Spoon the mixture into a greased 2 qt (1.89 liter) baking dish.
Bake at 350°F (177°C) for 20 minutes.
Stir gently.
Combine the remaining 1 tbsp of butter, pecans, and stuffing mix.
Toss until blended.
Sprinkle the mixture over the top of the artichoke mixture.
Bake for an additional 15 minutes.
Serve the dish spread with pita chips or French bread.

Variations

Add cooked bacon or diced jalapenos for a spicy kick.
Use different types of cheese, such as cheddar or mozzarella, for a unique flavor profile.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to drain the artichoke hearts well before chopping them to remove excess moisture.

- Be sure to stir the cheese mixture frequently while cooking to prevent it from burning.

- For a crispier topping, broil the dish for a few minutes after baking.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this delicious spread with pita chips, crackers, or sliced baguette for a tasty appetizer.

Cooking Techniques

Sauté the onions and garlic until they are soft and fragrant.

- Bake the dish until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use Greek yogurt or sour cream instead of mayonnaise for a lighter version of this dish.

- Substitute walnuts or almonds for the pecans if desired.

Make Ahead Tips

This dish can be assembled ahead of time and refrigerated until ready to bake. Simply add the pecan topping just before baking.

Presentation Ideas

Serve this spread in a decorative baking dish garnished with fresh herbs or additional shredded cheese.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair this Pecan-crusted Artichoke and Cheese Spread with a crisp white wine or a light beer for a delicious appetizer pairing.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

This recipe contains approximately 320 calories per serving.

Carbohydrates

This recipe contains approximately 12 grams of carbohydrates per serving.

Fats

This recipe contains approximately 22 grams of fat per serving.

Proteins

This recipe contains approximately 8 grams of protein per serving.

Vitamins and minerals

This recipe is a good source of calcium, vitamin A, and vitamin C.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (cheese) and nuts (pecans).

Summary

This Pecan-crusted Artichoke and Cheese Spread is a rich and indulgent appetizer that is best enjoyed in moderation due to its high fat and calorie content.

Summary

This Pecan-crusted Artichoke and Cheese Spread is a decadent and flavorful appetizer that is perfect for any occasion. With a rich and creamy cheese mixture topped with crunchy pecans, this dish is sure to be a hit with your guests. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

The moment I found this recipe is one that will always be cherished. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend, Margaret, in her cozy little cottage by the sea. Margaret was an incredible cook, and I always loved trying out new recipes with her. On this particular day, she surprised me with a delicious Pecan-crusted Artichoke and Cheese Spread.

As soon as I took my first bite, I knew that I had to learn how to make this dish myself. The combination of creamy cheese, tangy artichokes, and crunchy pecans was simply irresistible. Margaret was more than happy to share her recipe with me, and we spent the afternoon in her sunny kitchen, preparing the spread together.

Margaret told me that she had first discovered this recipe years ago, during a trip to Italy. She had been dining at a quaint little trattoria in the countryside, and the chef had served her this decadent spread as an appetizer. Margaret had been so impressed by the dish that she had asked the chef for the recipe, and he had been kind enough to share it with her.

Since then, Margaret had made the Pecan-crusted Artichoke and Cheese Spread countless times, always receiving rave reviews from her guests. She had even adapted the recipe slightly over the years, adding her own personal touch to make it truly her own.

I watched as Margaret expertly mixed together the cream cheese, Parmesan, and artichokes, adding a generous amount of garlic and herbs for flavor. She then spread the mixture into a baking dish and topped it with a generous layer of chopped pecans, which would become toasty and golden brown in the oven.

As the spread baked, the scent of garlic and cheese filled Margaret's kitchen, making my mouth water in anticipation. When the timer finally beeped, we pulled the dish out of the oven, and I couldn't wait to dig in.

The Pecan-crusted Artichoke and Cheese Spread was everything I had hoped for and more. The creamy cheese was perfectly complemented by the tangy artichokes, and the crunchy pecans added a wonderful contrast in texture. I knew that this recipe would become a staple in my own kitchen, and I thanked Margaret profusely for sharing it with me.

Since that day, I have made the Pecan-crusted Artichoke and Cheese Spread for countless gatherings with friends and family. It has become my go-to appetizer for dinner parties and holiday celebrations, always receiving compliments and requests for the recipe.

I have shared the recipe with many people over the years, passing on the delicious tradition that Margaret started so many years ago. Each time I make the spread, I think of Margaret and our wonderful day in her kitchen, cooking and laughing together.

The Pecan-crusted Artichoke and Cheese Spread will always hold a special place in my heart, not just for its delicious flavor, but for the memories and friendships that it represents. I am grateful to Margaret for introducing me to this incredible dish, and I will continue to make it for years to come, always cherishing the moment when I first discovered the recipe.