Welcome to Mangia Mondays: Week Three Creamy and Delicious Spinach Artichoke Dip! This weekly recipe blog hop is co-hosted by myself and the ever-talented Kristin of Delightfully Dowling. We’re thrilled to have you join us on this culinary adventure. Last week’s submissions were incredible, and as always, I couldn’t resist bookmarking an array of enticing recipes to add to my must-try list.
This week, I’m sharing a recipe that has stood the test of time in my kitchen: Creamy Spinach Artichoke Dip. Over the years, I’ve experimented with countless variations of this classic dish, but this particular recipe has earned its place as my go-to. What makes it so special? The secret lies in the inclusion of creamy Alouette cheese, which elevates the dip to a whole new level of indulgence. I’m a devoted fan of Alouette and can’t recommend it enough for this recipe. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply craving a delicious treat, this dip is guaranteed to impress. It’s easy to prepare in advance, allowing you to focus on enjoying your guests as they arrive.
Creamy and Delicious Spinach Artichoke Dip
Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup fresh shallots, minced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (10 oz.) package chopped frozen spinach, thawed and drained
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (or olive oil as a substitute)
- 1 (8 oz.) can quartered artichoke hearts, drained
- 1 cup half & half
- 2 oz. garlic herb cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground pepper
- 2 tablespoons freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Directions:
- Prepare the Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat the butter or olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced shallots and garlic, sautéing for approximately 2 minutes until fragrant and slightly softened.
- Incorporate the Vegetables: Chop the artichoke hearts into smaller pieces and add them to the skillet along with the thawed and drained spinach. Cook for about 1 minute, stirring occasionally.
- Create the Creamy Base: Pour in the half & half, followed by the garlic herb cheese. Season with kosher salt and freshly ground pepper. Stir the mixture until the cheese melts completely, creating a smooth and creamy consistency.
- Add Parmesan: Remove the skillet from heat and fold in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese. For convenience, I like to grate the cheese directly into the pan and eyeball the quantity, ensuring the dip achieves the perfect balance of flavors.
- Serve and Enjoy: Transfer the dip into a heatproof crockpot or ramekin. Serve it warm alongside your favorite dippers, such as tortilla chips, pita chips, or crackers. I’m currently loving blue tortilla chips for their sturdy texture and complementary flavor.
- Make Ahead Option: If you’re preparing the dip in advance, refrigerate it until needed. When ready to serve, reheat the dip in a 300-degree oven for approximately 10 minutes or until warmed through.
A Note on Artichokes:
Have you ever paused to admire the beauty of artichoke hearts? Personally, I think they deserve to be renamed “artichoke roses” for their intricate and delicate appearance. Finding beauty in everyday ingredients is one of the joys of cooking, and this dish is no exception.
Mangia Mondays: Share Your Culinary Creations
We’d love to see what’s been inspiring your kitchen adventures! Whether it’s a tried-and-true family favorite or an experimental new dish, your recipes are what make Mangia Mondays such a delight.
Guidelines for Participation:
- Link Your Recipe: Add a direct link to your recipe or food-related post (not your blog homepage). This makes it easier for others to discover and try your creation.
- Engage with Others: Take some time to visit the blogs of those who have linked up before you. Sharing comments and feedback fosters a supportive community.
- Stay on Topic: Please refrain from linking giveaways, other link parties, or items for sale.
- Spread the Word: Help us grow Mangia Mondays by linking back to this post or displaying the Mangia Mondays button on your blog. Sharing the love ensures more culinary inspiration for everyone!
So, what’s been tickling your taste buds lately? Share your latest creations, explore new ideas, and let’s keep the joy of cooking alive and well.
Why This Recipe is a Winner:
This Creamy Spinach Artichoke Dip is the epitome of comfort food, combining rich flavors with a velvety texture that’s impossible to resist. The use of garlic herb cheese adds a unique twist to the traditional recipe, creating a depth of flavor that sets this dip apart. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile. Whether you’re serving it as an appetizer for a formal dinner or as a casual snack during game night, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Dip:
- Thoroughly Drain the Spinach: Excess moisture can dilute the flavors and affect the texture of the dip. Squeeze the spinach well to ensure it’s as dry as possible.
- Customize the Cheese: While garlic herb cheese is a standout ingredient, you can experiment with other flavored soft cheeses to suit your taste.
- Choose Your Dippers Wisely: Sturdy chips or crackers work best for this thick and creamy dip. For a low-carb option, consider serving it with fresh vegetable sticks like celery or bell pepper slices.
Join the Conversation:
Don’t forget to share your feedback if you try this recipe. I’d love to hear how it turned out and if you made any creative adjustments. And of course, keep the submissions coming for Mangia Mondays. Each week brings new inspiration, and I can’t wait to see what you’ll bring to the table.
Happy cooking, and here’s to another delicious week of Mangia Mondays!
