Description
Spinach Dip
Ingredients:
250g fresh spinach, chopped
1 cup ricotta cheese
1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup shredded mozzarella
2 tbsp fresh basil, chopped
1 garlic clove, minced
1 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Preparation:
Sauté spinach and garlic in olive oil until wilted. Add fresh basil and stir.
In a bowl, mix ricotta, cream cheese, and mozzarella. Fold in the spinach mixture.
Transfer to a baking dish and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25 minutes.
Serve warm with veggie sticks or crackers.
#HerbySpinachDip
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a small baking dish or oven-safe serving bowl.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add all the chopped fresh spinach to the skillet. Cook, stirring frequently, for 3-4 minutes until the spinach has completely wilted and released its moisture. Transfer the mixture to a colander and press with a spoon to remove excess liquid. This step is crucial to prevent a watery dip.
4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, softened cream cheese, and shredded mozzarella. Use a spatula to mix until well blended and smooth.
5. Fold the drained spinach-garlic mixture and the chopped fresh basil into the cheese base. Season generously with salt and pepper.
6. Transfer the combined dip to your prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the dip is hot through, bubbly around the edges, and lightly golden on top.
Serving Suggestions
This warm, creamy dip is incredibly versatile. For a classic approach, serve it with sturdy tortilla chips, pita bread triangles, or an assortment of crackers. For a healthier option, offer a colorful platter of fresh vegetable sticks like bell peppers, carrots, cucumber, and celery. It also makes an excellent spread for sandwiches or a flavorful topping for baked potatoes.
How-to Summary
Sauté spinach and garlic, then drain well. Mix with ricotta, cream cheese, mozzarella, and basil. Season, transfer to a dish, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden. Serve warm.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen spinach?
Yes. Thaw 10 oz (280g) of frozen chopped spinach and squeeze it in a clean towel to remove all excess water before using.
How can I make this dip ahead of time?
Assemble the dip completely, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add 5-10 extra minutes to the baking time when cooking from cold.
What’s a good substitute for ricotta?
Full-fat cottage cheese, blended until smooth, or an equal amount of additional cream cheese can be used.
How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave in 30-second intervals or in a 350°F oven until warm.
Can I add other ingredients?
Absolutely! Consider adding 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan, a pinch of red pepper flakes, or 1/4 cup of finely chopped artichoke hearts.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not Draining the Spinach: Skipping this step will result in a watery, separated dip.
- Using Cold Cream Cheese: Ensure it’s softened to room temperature for a smooth, lump-free consistency.
- Overbaking: Bake just until hot and bubbly. Overbaking can cause the oils to separate.
- Underseasoning: The cheeses are mild, so be generous with salt and pepper. Taste the mixture before baking.
Conclusion
This Herby Spinach Dip is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that balances creamy richness with fresh, garden flavors. Its simplicity belies its impressive taste, making it perfect for everything from casual gatherings to holiday appetizer spreads. By following the detailed steps and avoiding common pitfalls, you’ll create a warm, comforting dip that disappears quickly. Remember to pair it with your favorite dippers and enjoy the delicious results.