Creamy Greek Garlic Spread (Skorthalia)
Discover the bold flavors of this traditional Greek spread, inspired by Jeff Smith's recipe from The Frugal Gourmet. Skorthalia is an intense garlic sauce perfect for tantalizing your taste buds. It's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser at any gathering—just be sure everyone gets a taste to avoid offending any garlic lovers! Ideal as a dip for fried calamari or as a hearty spread for fresh crudités, torn pita bread, or your favorite crackers. This sauce is not for the faint-hearted; its rich and zesty flavor will leave your guests asking for more.
15
Servings
160
Calories
6
Ingredients
Ingredients
Garlic
1 head (peeled and crushed)
White bread
10 slices (crusts removed)
Extra virgin olive oil
1 cup (none)
White vinegar
1/2 cup (none)
Lemon juice
2 tablespoons (freshly squeezed)
Water
3 tablespoons (none)
Instructions
1
Begin by peeling and crushing the entire head of garlic to release its flavor.
2
In a large mixing bowl, combine the crushed garlic with the slices of white bread (with crusts removed), extra virgin olive oil, and white vinegar. Ensure that all bread is fully coated.
3
Allow the mixture to sit for about one hour to let the bread soften and absorb the flavors.
4
After an hour, transfer the softened mixture into a food processor. Process the ingredients until a smooth consistency is achieved.
5
Incorporate the freshly squeezed lemon juice into the blend.
6
While the food processor is running, gradually add the water a little at a time until the sauce becomes thick and fluffy.
7
Once smooth, taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
8
Serve the Skorthalia immediately to enjoy its freshest flavor. Pair it with fried calamari, vegetables, pita bread, or crackers.
Nutrition Information
16g
Fat
8g
Carbs
1g
Protein
1g
Fiber
0.13g
Sugar
40mg
Sodium
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Skorthalia?
Skorthalia is an intense traditional Greek garlic sauce and spread known for its bold flavor.
Who inspired this specific Skorthalia recipe?
This recipe is inspired by Jeff Smith's version from The Frugal Gourmet.
Is this Greek garlic spread vegan?
Yes, this recipe is vegan as it uses bread and olive oil rather than animal products.
How much garlic is needed for this recipe?
The recipe requires one entire head of garlic, which should be peeled and crushed.
What type of bread is best for Skorthalia?
The recipe calls for 10 slices of white bread with the crusts removed.
Should I remove the crusts from the bread?
Yes, removing the crusts ensures the spread achieves a smooth and consistent texture.
What kind of oil should I use for this spread?
One cup of extra virgin olive oil is recommended for a rich and authentic flavor.
How long should the bread mixture sit before processing?
The mixture of bread, garlic, oil, and vinegar should sit for about one hour to allow the bread to soften.
What equipment is needed to blend the ingredients?
A food processor is used to blend the ingredients into a smooth and fluffy sauce.
How do I make the Skorthalia thick and fluffy?
Gradually add water a little at a time while the food processor is running until the desired consistency is reached.
When should I add the lemon juice?
Incorporate the freshly squeezed lemon juice into the blend after the initial processing of the bread and garlic.
What can I serve with Creamy Greek Garlic Spread?
It is ideal as a dip for fried calamari, fresh crudites, torn pita bread, or crackers.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe yields approximately 15 servings.
How many calories are in one serving?
There are 160 calories per serving of this garlic spread.
What is the fat content per serving?
Each serving contains 16 grams of fat.
How many carbohydrates are in this recipe?
Each serving contains 8 grams of carbohydrates.
Is there any protein in Skorthalia?
Yes, there is 1 gram of protein per serving.
What is the sodium content of this dish?
Each serving contains 40mg of sodium.
Does this recipe contain cholesterol?
No, this recipe does not contain any cholesterol.
How much sugar is in a serving?
There is a very low sugar content of 0.13g per serving.
Is there fiber in this garlic spread?
Yes, each serving provides 1 gram of fiber.
What type of vinegar is used in this recipe?
The recipe calls for 1/2 cup of white vinegar.
How much water is needed?
The recipe uses 3 tablespoons of water, added gradually during processing.
Can I serve this spread immediately?
Yes, it is recommended to serve Skorthalia immediately to enjoy its freshest flavor.
Is this recipe suitable for a Mediterranean diet?
Yes, it is tagged as a Mediterranean and Greek appetizer.
What is the texture of the finished sauce?
The finished sauce should be smooth, thick, and fluffy.
Can this be used as a party food?
Absolutely, it is described as a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for any gathering.
Is the garlic flavor very strong?
Yes, it is an intense garlic sauce that is not for the faint-hearted.
What category of food does this fall into?
This recipe is categorized under Spreads and can also be used as a dip or sauce.
How many main ingredients are required?
There are 6 primary ingredients: garlic, white bread, olive oil, white vinegar, lemon juice, and water.