Name: Creamy Parmesan Spinach Dip Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 8
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 10 oz frozen spinach; ½ cup light sour cream; 5 tbsp light mayonnaise; ⅓ cup Parmigiano-Reggiano; ¼ cup scallion; fresh pepper

This creamy parmesan spinach dip is the perfect appetizer for any gathering. It's a delightful blend of spinach, sour cream, and mayonnaise, all brought together with the rich flavor of parmigiano-reggiano. Easy to prepare and loved by all, it's sure to be a hit.

Photos of Creamy Parmesan Spinach Dip Recipe

One ingredient you might not commonly have at home is parmigiano-reggiano, a high-quality Italian cheese known for its deep, nutty flavor. Additionally, you may need to look for scallions (also known as green onions), which add a fresh, mild onion taste to the dip. Both are typically available at most supermarkets in the cheese and produce sections, respectively.

Ingredients for Creamy Parmesan Spinach Dip

frozen spinach: Convenient and easy to use, frozen spinach is pre-washed and cooked, saving time in preparation.

light sour cream: Adds creaminess and a slight tang without the extra calories of regular sour cream.

light mayonnaise: Provides a creamy texture while keeping the dip lighter in calories.

parmigiano-reggiano: A rich, nutty cheese that elevates the flavor of the dip.

scallion: Adds a fresh, mild onion flavor to the dip.

fresh pepper: Enhances the overall flavor with a bit of mild heat.

One reader, Flossi Bruce says:

This creamy parmesan spinach dip is a hit! The blend of light sour cream and parmigiano-reggiano creates a rich, flavorful dip. Perfect for parties, it's easy to make ahead and tastes even better the next day. A must-try for spinach lovers!

Flossi Bruce

Techniques Required for Creamy Parmesan Spinach Dip Recipe

How to thaw frozen spinach: Thaw the frozen spinach by placing it in the refrigerator overnight or using the microwave on a defrost setting. Once thawed, squeeze out excess water using a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. How to grate parmigiano-reggiano: Use a fine grater or microplane to grate the parmigiano-reggiano cheese finely. How to chop scallions: Wash the scallions thoroughly, then trim off the root ends and any wilted green parts. Slice the scallions thinly, both the white and green parts.

How To Make Creamy Parmesan Spinach Dip

Pair crackers, chips, and more sides with this creamy spinach dip. It’s made with light sour cream and mayonnaise with Parmigiano-Reggiano.

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking:

Total: 10 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

10ozfrozen spinach,chopped, thawed, and excess liquid squeezed out
½cuplight sour cream,full fat for Keto
5tbsplight mayonnaise,full fat, check labels for Keto
⅓cupParmigiano-Reggiano
¼cupscallion,chopped
fresh pepper,to taste

Instructions

Combine all the ingredients in a medium bowl.
This dip can be made 1 day in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
Remove from refrigerator 30 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Calories: 83.89kcal
Fat: 6.31g
Saturated Fat: 2.41g
Monounsaturated Fat: 1.62g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.93g
Carbohydrates: 3.48g
Fiber: 0.91g
Sugar: 0.69g
Protein: 3.89g
Cholesterol: 9.24mg
Sodium: 192.61mg
Calcium: 131.87mg
Potassium: 251.37mg
Iron: 1.09mg
Vitamin A: 193.58µg
Vitamin C: 10.67mg

Technique Tip for Creamy Parmesan Spinach Dip Recipe

For a smoother texture, make sure to thoroughly drain and squeeze out any excess water from the frozen spinach before combining it with the other ingredients. This will prevent the dip from becoming too watery and help the flavors meld together better.

Time-Saving Tips for Making This Dip

Thaw the spinach: Thaw frozen spinach in the microwave to save time instead of letting it sit out.

Pre-grated cheese: Use pre-grated parmigiano-reggiano to cut down on prep time.

Chop scallions ahead: Chop scallions in advance and store them in an airtight container.

Mix in a food processor: Combine all ingredients in a food processor for a smoother texture and quicker mixing.

Use measuring spoons: Measure out sour cream and mayonnaise with measuring spoons to ensure accuracy and speed.

Substitute Ingredients For Creamy Parmesan Spinach Dip Recipe

frozen spinach - Substitute with fresh spinach: Fresh spinach can be used if you sauté it first and squeeze out excess moisture. It provides a fresher taste and texture.
light sour cream - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt is a healthier alternative that offers a similar tangy flavor and creamy texture.
light mayonnaise - Substitute with plain yogurt: Plain yogurt can be used to reduce calories and fat while maintaining creaminess.
parmigiano-reggiano - Substitute with grated pecorino romano: Pecorino Romano has a similar sharp and salty flavor, making it a good alternative.
scallion - Substitute with chives: Chives offer a similar mild onion flavor and can be used in equal amounts.
fresh pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper provides a similar heat and flavor without altering the color of the dip.

Best Way to Present Creamy Parmesan Spinach Dip

Use a stylish serving dish: Present the creamy parmesan spinach dip in a sleek, modern bowl that complements the vibrant green of the spinach.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Add a touch of elegance by garnishing the dip with finely chopped scallion and a sprinkle of freshly cracked pepper.
Accompany with artisanal bread: Serve the dip with thinly sliced, toasted artisan bread or gourmet crackers arranged neatly around the bowl.
Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil: Just before serving, drizzle a small amount of high-quality extra virgin olive oil over the top of the dip to add a glossy finish and enhance the flavor.
Use a contrasting plate: Place the serving dish on a larger, contrasting plate to create a visual frame that draws attention to the dip.
Add a pop of color: Include a few cherry tomatoes or thin slices of red bell pepper on the side for a burst of color and additional texture.
Serve at the right temperature: Ensure the dip is at the perfect serving temperature by removing it from the refrigerator 30 minutes before plating, allowing it to reach a creamy consistency.
Provide individual portions: For a refined touch, consider serving the dip in small, individual ramekins, each garnished and accompanied by a few pieces of bread or crackers.
Highlight the parmesan: Grate a small amount of fresh parmigiano-reggiano over the top just before serving to emphasize the rich, cheesy flavor.
Create a balanced presentation: Arrange the components symmetrically and with attention to detail, ensuring that each element complements the others and creates a harmonious, visually appealing dish.

Essential Tools for Making Spinach Dip

Medium bowl: To combine all the ingredients together.
Measuring cups: To accurately measure the sour cream, mayonnaise, and parmigiano-reggiano.
Measuring spoons: To measure out the tablespoons of mayonnaise.
Grater: To grate the parmigiano-reggiano if it is not pre-grated.
Knife: To finely chop the scallions.
Cutting board: To provide a safe surface for chopping the scallions.
Mixing spoon: To thoroughly mix all the ingredients together.
Plastic wrap: To cover the bowl if you are storing the dip in the refrigerator.
Refrigerator: To store the dip if you make it in advance.
Timer: To remind you to remove the dip from the refrigerator 30 minutes before serving.

Storing and Freezing Creamy Parmesan Spinach Dip

This creamy parmesan spinach dip can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to cover the surface of the dip with plastic wrap, pressing it directly onto the surface to prevent a skin from forming.
If you want to keep the dip for longer, you can freeze it for up to 1 month. Transfer the dip to a freezer-safe container, leaving some space at the top for expansion. Label the container with the date and contents.
To thaw the frozen spinach dip, transfer it from the freezer to the refrigerator and let it thaw overnight. Once thawed, give it a good stir to reincorporate any separated ingredients.
When you're ready to serve the thawed dip, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to soften and become more spreadable. If the dip seems too thick, you can stir in a little sour cream or mayonnaise to adjust the consistency.
If you notice any signs of spoilage, such as mold growth or an off smell, discard the dip immediately. Always use your best judgment and follow proper food safety guidelines when storing and consuming leftover dips.

How To Reheat Leftover Spinach Dip

Reheat the creamy parmesan spinach dip in the microwave: transfer the dip to a microwave-safe bowl, cover it with a damp paper towel, and heat it in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until it's heated through and creamy.
Warm up the spinach dip in a slow cooker: pour the dip into the slow cooker, set it to low heat, and let it warm up for about 30-45 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it's hot and bubbly.
Revive the dip on the stovetop: transfer the dip to a saucepan, add a splash of milk or cream to loosen it up, and heat it over low heat, stirring frequently, until it's warmed through and smooth.
Crisp up the top in the oven: preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C), transfer the spinach dip to an oven-safe dish, sprinkle some extra parmigiano-reggiano on top, and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the dip is heated through.
Give it a quick zap in the air fryer: place the dip in an air fryer-safe container, set the temperature to 350°F (175°C), and heat for 3-5 minutes, or until it's warmed through and slightly crispy on top.

Random Fact About Creamy Parmesan Spinach Dip

A fun fact about this creamy parmesan spinach dip is that spinach is rich in iron and vitamins A and C, making this dip not only delicious but also nutritious.

Is Making Spinach Dip at Home Economical?

This creamy parmesan spinach dip is quite cost-effective for a household. The primary ingredients like frozen spinach, light sour cream, and light mayonnaise are affordable and often found in bulk at grocery stores. Parmigiano-Reggiano might be a bit pricier, but a little goes a long way. Scallions and fresh pepper are inexpensive. Overall, this recipe scores an 8 out of 10 for cost-effectiveness. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $10-$12 USD.

Is This Creamy Dip Healthy or Unhealthy?

The creamy parmesan spinach dip recipe is a healthier alternative to traditional spinach dips, as it uses light sour cream and mayonnaise, reducing the overall fat content. The inclusion of spinach provides a good source of vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin A, vitamin C, and iron. Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese adds a savory flavor and a boost of calcium. Scallions contribute a mild onion taste and some additional nutrients. However, the recipe still contains a considerable amount of fat from the dairy products and mayonnaise, which could be a concern for those watching their calorie intake or following a low-fat diet.

To further improve the healthiness of the recipe, consider replacing the light sour cream and mayonnaise with Greek yogurt, which is lower in fat and higher in protein.
Increase the amount of spinach to boost the nutrient content and fiber in the dip.
Experiment with adding other vegetables, such as artichokes or roasted red peppers, to enhance the flavor and nutritional value.
Serve the dip with fresh, crunchy vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, and cucumber slices instead of high-calorie chips or crackers.

Editor's Thoughts on This Creamy Spinach Dip Recipe

This creamy parmesan spinach dip recipe is a delightful, lightened-up version of a classic favorite. The combination of light sour cream and mayonnaise ensures a creamy texture without excessive calories. Parmigiano-reggiano adds a rich, nutty flavor, while scallions provide a fresh, mild onion note. The use of frozen spinach makes it convenient and quick to prepare. Allowing the dip to rest in the refrigerator enhances the flavors, making it even more delicious. Overall, it's a simple yet elegant appetizer perfect for any gathering.

Enhance Your Creamy Parmesan Spinach Dip Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Elevate your appetizer game with these delightful stuffed mushrooms. The earthy flavor of the mushrooms pairs perfectly with the creamy, cheesy goodness of the spinach dip. A touch of garlic and herbs will make these bite-sized wonders irresistible.

Garlic Parmesan Breadsticks: Transform your dining experience with garlic parmesan breadsticks. These warm, crispy breadsticks are the perfect vehicle for scooping up the rich, creamy spinach dip. The combination of garlic and parmesan will leave your taste buds dancing with joy.

Roasted Red Pepper Hummus: Add a splash of color and flavor to your appetizer spread with roasted red pepper hummus. The smoky sweetness of the roasted red peppers complements the creamy texture of the spinach dip beautifully. Serve with an assortment of fresh veggies for a vibrant and healthy option.

Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus: Indulge in the perfect balance of savory and fresh with bacon-wrapped asparagus. The crispy bacon adds a delightful crunch and a burst of flavor that pairs wonderfully with the creamy spinach dip. This elegant side dish will impress your guests and elevate your appetizer spread.

Mini Caprese Skewers: Delight your guests with mini caprese skewers. These bite-sized skewers feature juicy cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and fragrant basil, drizzled with a balsamic glaze. The fresh, tangy flavors provide a refreshing contrast to the rich, creamy spinach dip, making them a perfect pairing.

Similar Recipes to Creamy Parmesan Spinach Dip

Artichoke And Spinach Stuffed Mushrooms: Imagine the earthy flavor of mushrooms combined with a creamy blend of artichokes and spinach. These bite-sized delights are perfect for any gathering and will leave your guests craving more.

Roasted Red Pepper And Feta Dip: This vibrant dip combines the smoky sweetness of roasted red peppers with the tangy creaminess of feta cheese. Serve it with pita bread or vegetable sticks for a colorful and flavorful appetizer.

Garlic Herb Cheese Spread: A luscious blend of cream cheese, garlic, and fresh herbs creates a spread that's perfect for crackers or baguette slices. This spread is a hit at any party and pairs beautifully with a glass of white wine.

Buffalo Chicken Dip: Spice up your appetizer game with this creamy, spicy buffalo chicken dip. The combination of shredded chicken, hot sauce, and cheese makes it an irresistible choice for game day or any casual gathering.

Suggested Main Courses and Desserts to Pair with This Dip

Main Courses:

Chicken Alfredo: Indulge in a creamy Chicken Alfredo that will leave your taste buds dancing. Start by sautéing chicken breasts until they are golden brown and juicy. In a separate pan, create a luscious alfredo sauce using heavy cream, butter, and freshly grated parmesan cheese. Toss in some fettuccine pasta and let it soak up all the rich flavors. Garnish with a sprinkle of parsley and a dash of black pepper for an extra touch of elegance. Serve with a side of garlic bread to complete this comforting dish.

Beef Wellington: Experience the luxury of Beef Wellington for a special dinner. Begin by searing a beef tenderloin to lock in its juices. Prepare a duxelles mixture with finely chopped mushrooms, shallots, and herbs. Wrap the beef in a layer of prosciutto and the duxelles, then encase it all in a golden puff pastry. Bake until the pastry is perfectly crisp and the beef is tender. Serve with a rich red wine reduction and a side of roasted vegetables for a meal that is sure to impress.

Desserts:

Tiramisu: Indulge in the rich layers of espresso-soaked ladyfingers and mascarpone cream. This Italian classic is elevated with a dusting of cocoa powder and a hint of coffee liqueur. Perfect for a sophisticated dinner party, this dessert offers a delightful balance of bitterness and sweetness.

Pavlova: Experience the delicate crunch of meringue paired with a soft, marshmallow-like center. Topped with whipped cream and an array of fresh fruits like berries and kiwi, this dessert is both visually stunning and delicious. A touch of passion fruit sauce adds a tangy twist, making it a refreshing end to any meal.

Why trust this Creamy Parmesan Spinach Dip Recipe:

This creamy parmesan spinach dip recipe is a must-try for any gathering. Using light sour cream and light mayonnaise keeps it healthier without sacrificing flavor. The parmigiano-reggiano adds a rich, nutty taste, while the scallions provide a fresh, subtle bite. It's easy to prepare and can be made a day ahead, making it perfect for busy hosts. Trust this recipe for a delicious, crowd-pleasing appetizer.

Share your thoughts on the Creamy Parmesan Spinach Dip Recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum and let us know if you have any tweaks or serving suggestions!

FAQ:

Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen spinach?

Yes, you can use fresh spinach. Just make sure to cook it down and squeeze out any excess moisture before adding it to the dip.

How long can I store the dip in the refrigerator?

You can store the dip in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure to keep it in an airtight container.

Can I use full-fat sour cream and mayonnaise instead of light versions?

Absolutely! Using full-fat sour cream and mayonnaise will make the dip even creamier and richer.

What can I serve with this spinach dip?

This dip goes great with crackers, sliced baguette, fresh veggies like carrots and celery, or even tortilla chips.

Can I add other cheeses to this dip?

Yes, you can experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella or cheddar for a different flavor profile. Just make sure to adjust the quantities to maintain the creamy texture.