Name: Easy Spinach Dip Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 2 h 10 min
Yield: 8
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 10 oz fresh spinach; 2 cups sour cream; ½ cup mayonnaise; ½ cup cream cheese; 8 oz water chestnuts; ¼ cup Scallions; 1.4 oz Knorr Vegetable Recipe Mix

This easy spinach dip is a crowd-pleaser that's perfect for parties, gatherings, or just a cozy night in. With simple ingredients and minimal preparation time, you can whip up this creamy, savory dip in no time.

Photos of Easy Spinach Dip Recipe

If you're heading to the supermarket, you might need to look out for a couple of ingredients that aren't typically in everyone's pantry. Water chestnuts, often found in the international aisle, add a satisfying crunch to the dip. The Knorr vegetable recipe mix is a flavor-packed blend that ensures your dip is anything but bland.

Ingredients For Easy Spinach Dip

Spinach: Fresh and packed with nutrients, spinach forms the base of this dip.

Sour cream: Adds a tangy, creamy texture to the dip.

Mayonnaise: Provides a rich, smooth consistency.

Cream cheese: Enhances the creaminess and adds a slight tang.

Water chestnuts: Give a crunchy texture and subtle sweetness.

Scallions: Bring a mild onion flavor and freshness.

Knorr vegetable recipe mix: A blend of herbs and spices that add depth of flavor.

One reader, Herc Peace says:

This easy spinach dip recipe is a hit at every gathering! The blend of fresh spinach, creamy ingredients, and crunchy water chestnuts creates a perfect texture. It's simple to make and absolutely delicious. Highly recommend!

Herc Peace

Techniques Required for Making Spinach Dip

How to rinse spinach: Rinse the spinach thoroughly under cold running water to remove any dirt or debris. How to microwave spinach: Place the rinsed spinach in a large microwave-safe bowl, cover it with a wet paper towel, and microwave for 2 minutes until wilted. How to mix ingredients: Combine the spinach, sour cream, mayonnaise, cream cheese, water chestnuts, scallions, and Knorr vegetable recipe mix in a bowl until well combined. How to refrigerate: Place the mixed dip in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld together.

How To Make Easy Spinach Dip

This creamy spinach dip combines healthy spinach, tangy sour cream, and cream cheese, with added crunch from chestnuts, for a delectable dip!

Preparation: 5 minutes

Cooking: 5 minutes

Chill Time: 2 hours

Total: 2 hours 10 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

10ozfresh spinach,or frozen, thawed and drained
2cupssour cream
½cupmayonnaise
½cupcream cheese
8ozwater chestnuts,drained, chopped
¼cupscallions,thinly sliced
1.4ozKnorr Vegetable Recipe Mix

Instructions

Rinse the spinach in a large microwave-safe bowl, cover with a wet paper towel, and microwave it for 2 minutes.
Mix the spinach, sour cream, mayonnaise, cream cheese, water chestnuts, scallions, and Knorr Vegetable Recipe Mix into the bowl until well combined.
Refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
Serve, and enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 300.69kcal
Fat: 27.62g
Saturated Fat: 11.11g
Monounsaturated Fat: 6.96g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 7.45g
Carbohydrates: 11.22g
Fiber: 1.91g
Sugar: 3.70g
Protein: 3.68g
Cholesterol: 51.48mg
Sodium: 198.05mg
Calcium: 119.15mg
Potassium: 483.53mg
Iron: 1.22mg
Vitamin A: 334.63µg
Vitamin C: 12.71mg

Technique Tip for Preparing Spinach Dip

For a smoother texture in your spinach dip, ensure that the cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing. This will help it blend more easily with the other ingredients, resulting in a creamier consistency.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Spinach Dip

Use pre-washed spinach: Save time by buying pre-washed spinach to skip the rinsing step.

Microwave efficiently: Microwave the spinach in a microwave-safe bowl with a wet paper towel for quick steaming.

Pre-chop ingredients: Pre-chop scallions and water chestnuts to streamline the mixing process.

Soften cream cheese: Soften the cream cheese at room temperature for easier blending.

Use a food processor: Use a food processor to quickly mix all ingredients to save time and ensure even consistency.

Substitute Ingredients For Easy Spinach Dip Recipe

fresh spinach - Substitute with frozen spinach: Frozen spinach is pre-cooked and can save time. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well to avoid excess moisture.
sour cream - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt provides a similar creamy texture and tangy flavor but with less fat and more protein.
mayonnaise - Substitute with plain yogurt: Plain yogurt can offer a similar creamy consistency and tanginess, making it a healthier option with fewer calories.
cream cheese - Substitute with ricotta cheese: Ricotta cheese has a similar creamy texture but is lighter and less dense, which can make the dip less rich.
water chestnuts - Substitute with jicama: Jicama provides a similar crunchy texture and mild flavor, making it a good alternative.
scallions - Substitute with chives: Chives offer a similar mild onion flavor and can be used in the same quantity.
knorr vegetable recipe mix - Substitute with homemade vegetable seasoning mix: A blend of dried herbs and spices like parsley, onion powder, garlic powder, and salt can replicate the flavor profile.

Best Way to Present This Spinach Dip

Use a stylish serving bowl: Choose a sleek, modern bowl to hold the spinach dip. Opt for a white or neutral color to make the vibrant green of the spinach pop.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Finely chop some fresh scallions and sprinkle them on top of the dip. Add a few whole leaves of spinach for an elegant touch.
Add a touch of texture: Thinly slice the water chestnuts and arrange them delicately on top of the dip. This adds a crunchy texture and a visual contrast.
Serve with artisanal bread: Slice a fresh baguette into thin, angled pieces and lightly toast them. Arrange the bread slices around the bowl of dip for a sophisticated presentation.
Incorporate colorful vegetables: Add a variety of vegetables like carrot sticks, bell pepper strips, and cucumber slices around the dip. This not only adds color but also provides healthy dipping options.
Use a decorative platter: Place the bowl of spinach dip in the center of a large, decorative platter. Arrange the bread and vegetables around it in an aesthetically pleasing manner.
Drizzle with olive oil: Just before serving, drizzle a small amount of high-quality olive oil over the top of the dip. This adds a glossy finish and a hint of richness.
Add a sprinkle of seasoning: Lightly dust the top of the dip with a pinch of paprika or cayenne pepper for a pop of color and a subtle kick of flavor.
Serve chilled: Ensure the spinach dip is well-chilled before serving. This enhances the flavors and provides a refreshing contrast to the warm bread and vegetables.
Provide elegant serving utensils: Use small, stylish serving spoons or spreaders to allow guests to easily scoop the dip onto their bread or vegetables. This adds a touch of class to the presentation.

Essential Tools for Making Spinach Dip

Large microwave-safe bowl: For rinsing and microwaving the spinach to wilt it.
Wet paper towel: To cover the spinach while microwaving, ensuring it steams properly.
Mixing bowl: To combine all the ingredients together.
Spatula: For mixing the ingredients thoroughly.
Knife: To chop the scallions and possibly the water chestnuts if they are not pre-chopped.
Cutting board: To provide a surface for chopping the scallions and water chestnuts.
Measuring cups: To measure out the sour cream, mayonnaise, and cream cheese accurately.
Refrigerator: To chill the dip for at least 2 hours, allowing the flavors to meld.
Serving bowl: To present the dip when serving.
Spoon: For serving the dip.

How To Store and Freeze Homemade Spinach Dip

To store the spinach dip, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 5 days. The flavors will meld together and intensify over time, making it even more delicious.
If you want to freeze the dip, spoon it into a freezer-safe container, leaving about half an inch of space at the top for expansion. Cover the container tightly with a lid or plastic wrap, then wrap it in aluminum foil for an extra layer of protection against freezer burn.
Label the container with the date and contents, then place it in the freezer. The spinach dip can be frozen for up to 2 months.
To thaw the frozen dip, transfer it from the freezer to the refrigerator and let it defrost overnight. Once thawed, give the dip a good stir to redistribute any separated ingredients.
If the thawed dip seems a bit watery, you can drain off the excess liquid or stir in a little extra sour cream or cream cheese to restore its creamy texture.
Serve the thawed and stirred spinach dip with your favorite dippers, such as vegetables, crackers, or bread. Enjoy the delightful burst of flavors and the cool, creamy texture.

How To Reheat Leftover Spinach Dip

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the leftover spinach dip to an oven-safe dish and cover it with aluminum foil. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until heated through. Stir the dip halfway through the reheating process to ensure even heating. This method works best for larger quantities of leftover dip.
For smaller portions, you can use a microwave. Place the desired amount of spinach dip in a microwave-safe bowl and heat it in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until the dip is heated through. Be careful not to overheat the dip, as it may cause the sour cream and mayonnaise to separate.
If you prefer a crispy top on your reheated spinach dip, transfer the dip to an oven-safe dish and top it with shredded cheese, such as mozzarella or Parmesan. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the dip uncovered for 10-15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
For a quick and easy method, you can reheat the spinach dip in a saucepan on the stovetop. Use low heat and stir the dip constantly to prevent burning and ensure even heating. This method works well for both small and large quantities of leftover dip.
If you have a slow cooker or crockpot, you can use it to reheat your leftover spinach dip. Transfer the dip to the slow cooker and heat it on low for 1-2 hours, stirring occasionally. This method is ideal for keeping the dip warm during parties or gatherings.

Random Fact About Spinach Dip

A fun fact about this spinach dip recipe is that water chestnuts add a delightful crunch to the creamy mixture, providing a unique texture contrast that enhances the overall eating experience.

Is Making Spinach Dip at Home Cost-Effective?

This easy spinach dip recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients like spinach, sour cream, and mayonnaise are relatively inexpensive. The Knorr vegetable recipe mix adds a burst of flavor without breaking the bank. For a household of 4, the approximate cost would be around $10-$12 USD. Overall Verdict: 8/10.

Is This Spinach Dip Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?

This spinach dip recipe, while tasty, is not particularly healthy due to several high-fat ingredients:

Sour cream and mayonnaise are both high in saturated fats and calories
Cream cheese is also high in fat and calories
The Knorr vegetable recipe mix may contain added sodium and preservatives

However, the recipe does include some healthy ingredients:

Spinach is a nutrient-dense vegetable, rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as iron and calcium
Water chestnuts are low in calories and provide some fiber
Scallions offer a mild onion flavor and contain some vitamin K

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:

Replace the sour cream with plain Greek yogurt, which is lower in fat and higher in protein
Use reduced-fat mayonnaise or replace it with additional Greek yogurt
Opt for low-fat cream cheese to reduce the overall fat content
Make your own seasoning mix using dried herbs and spices, such as onion powder, garlic powder, and dried parsley, to control sodium content
Increase the amount of spinach for added nutrients and fiber
Serve the dip with fresh, crisp vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, and cucumber slices instead of high-calorie chips or crackers

By making these adjustments, you can enjoy a delicious and creamy spinach dip with a better nutritional profile. Remember, moderation is key, even with healthier versions of your favorite recipes.

Editor's Thoughts on This Spinach Dip Recipe

This spinach dip recipe is straightforward and convenient, making it perfect for quick gatherings. The combination of sour cream, mayonnaise, and cream cheese ensures a creamy texture, while the water chestnuts add a delightful crunch. Using the Knorr vegetable recipe mix simplifies seasoning, though fresh herbs could elevate the flavor. Microwaving the spinach is a clever time-saver, but ensure it's well-drained to avoid a watery dip. Overall, it's a reliable and tasty option that benefits from a few hours of refrigeration to meld the flavors.

Enhance Your Easy Spinach Dip Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Garlic Parmesan Breadsticks: Imagine the warm, buttery aroma of garlic and parmesan wafting through the air. These breadsticks are the perfect crispy and chewy companions to your creamy spinach dip. They add a delightful crunch and a burst of flavor that will make your taste buds dance with joy.

Roasted Red Pepper Hummus: Pair your spinach dip with a vibrant and smoky roasted red pepper hummus. The rich, earthy flavors of the chickpeas and the sweet, charred notes of the red peppers create a harmonious blend that complements the creamy dip beautifully. It's a match made in appetizer heaven.

Stuffed Mini Bell Peppers: These colorful mini bell peppers are stuffed with a zesty mixture of cream cheese, herbs, and a hint of lemon zest. They provide a refreshing crunch and a burst of tangy flavor that contrasts wonderfully with the smooth, savory spinach dip. A delightful bite-sized treat!

Crispy Baked Zucchini Fries: Transform zucchini into crispy, golden fries that are both healthy and delicious. Coated in a light panko breadcrumb mixture and baked to perfection, these fries offer a satisfying crunch that pairs perfectly with the creamy dip. A guilt-free indulgence!

Caprese Skewers: Elevate your appetizer game with these elegant caprese skewers. Juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella balls, and fresh basil leaves are drizzled with a balsamic glaze, creating a burst of flavors that complement the spinach dip. A sophisticated and refreshing side dish!

Alternative Recipes Similar to Spinach Dip

Artichoke and Spinach Stuffed Mushrooms: Imagine the creamy goodness of spinach dip nestled inside tender mushroom caps. These bite-sized delights are perfect for any gathering. The earthy flavor of the mushrooms pairs beautifully with the rich, cheesy filling, making them an irresistible appetizer.

Creamy Avocado and Spinach Dip: Take your spinach dip to the next level by adding creamy avocado. This twist on the classic recipe brings a fresh, vibrant flavor and a silky texture that will have everyone coming back for more. Perfect with tortilla chips or veggie sticks.

Spinach and Artichoke Flatbread: Transform your favorite spinach dip into a delectable flatbread. Spread the creamy mixture over a crispy flatbread crust and top with artichoke hearts and a sprinkle of parmesan cheese. Bake until bubbly and golden for a crowd-pleasing appetizer or light meal.

Spinach and Feta Stuffed Chicken Breasts: Elevate your dinner with these succulent chicken breasts stuffed with a flavorful mixture of spinach and feta cheese. The creamy filling keeps the chicken moist and adds a burst of flavor with every bite. Serve with a side of roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Spinach and Cheese Stuffed Pastry: Indulge in flaky pastry pockets filled with a savory blend of spinach and cheese. These golden, buttery pastries are perfect for brunch, parties, or a special snack. The combination of creamy cheese and tender spinach is simply divine.

Suggested Main Courses and Desserts to Pair With Spinach Dip

Main Courses:

Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken: Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken is a delightful dish that combines the zesty flavors of lemon and aromatic herbs. The chicken is marinated in a mixture of fresh lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and a blend of herbs like rosemary, thyme, and parsley. After marinating, the chicken is grilled to perfection, resulting in a juicy and flavorful main course. Serve it with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Stuffed Bell Peppers: Stuffed Bell Peppers are a colorful and nutritious option that can be customized to your liking. The bell peppers are hollowed out and filled with a savory mixture of ground meat, rice, tomatoes, and spices. You can also add beans or corn for extra texture and flavor. The stuffed peppers are then baked until the peppers are tender and the filling is cooked through. Top with cheese and fresh herbs before serving for an extra touch of deliciousness.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Indulge in the rich, gooey center of Chocolate Lava Cake. This decadent treat features a warm, molten chocolate core that oozes out with every bite. Serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra touch of luxury. Perfect for a romantic dinner or a special occasion, this dessert is sure to impress your guests and leave them craving more.

Lemon Meringue Pie: Experience the perfect balance of sweet and tart with Lemon Meringue Pie. The zesty lemon curd filling is topped with a light, fluffy meringue that is toasted to perfection. The crisp, buttery pie crust adds a delightful texture to each bite. This classic dessert is ideal for summer gatherings or as a refreshing end to a hearty meal. Your guests will appreciate the bright, citrusy flavors and the beautiful presentation.

Why trust this Easy Spinach Dip Recipe:

This easy spinach dip recipe is a must-try for any gathering. Using fresh spinach ensures a vibrant flavor, while the combination of sour cream, mayonnaise, and cream cheese creates a creamy, irresistible texture. The addition of water chestnuts adds a delightful crunch, and the Knorr vegetable recipe mix brings a perfect blend of seasonings. With minimal prep and a short refrigeration time, this dip is both convenient and delicious. Trust this recipe for its balance of flavors and ease of preparation.

Share your thoughts on this easy spinach dip recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum and let us know how it turned out for you!

FAQ:

How do I make sure the spinach is properly cooked in the microwave?

I usually rinse the spinach thoroughly, place it in a large microwave-safe bowl, and cover it with a wet paper towel. Microwaving it for about 2 minutes should do the trick. The spinach will wilt and be ready to mix with the other ingredients.

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh spinach?

Absolutely! If you’re using frozen spinach, just make sure to thaw and drain it well before mixing it with the other ingredients. Squeeze out any excess water to avoid a watery dip.

What can I use as a substitute for water chestnuts?

If you’re not a fan of water chestnuts or can’t find them, you can use chopped celery or even finely diced bell peppers for a bit of crunch. It’ll still taste great!

How long can I store the spinach dip in the refrigerator?

You can store the spinach dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Just give it a good stir before serving again.

Can I add other ingredients to this spinach dip?

Definitely! Feel free to get creative. Some people like adding shredded cheese, garlic powder, or even a bit of hot sauce for an extra kick. Make it your own!