Creamy Spinach and Artichoke Dip
Indulge in the rich and savory flavors of this Creamy Spinach and Artichoke Dip, perfect for any gathering or cozy night in. This delightful appetizer combines tender artichoke hearts and nutrient-rich spinach with a luscious blend of cream cheese and Parmesan, enhanced with a touch of heat from crushed red pepper flakes. It's quick and easy to prepare, with the convenience of the microwave, making it an ideal choice for unexpected guests or game day snacks. Serve it warm with your favorite chips, crackers, or toasted bread, and watch it disappear!
6
Servings
75
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
Artichoke hearts
1 cup (diced (frozen or canned, not marinated))
Frozen chopped spinach
1/2 cup (thawed)
Cream cheese
8 ounces (softened)
Grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup (none)
Crushed red pepper flakes
1/2 teaspoon (none)
Salt
1/4 teaspoon (none)
Garlic powder
1/8 teaspoon (none)
Ground black pepper
1 dash (none)
Instructions
1
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the diced artichoke hearts (thawed if frozen) and thawed chopped spinach. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap, leaving a small slit for steam to escape. Microwave on high for 4 minutes, then remove, stir, and return to the microwave for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the artichoke hearts are tender. Drain any excess moisture.
2
In a separate small bowl, heat the cream cheese in the microwave on high for 1 minute until softened. For those without a microwave, heat the cream cheese in a saucepan over medium heat until just warm.
3
Carefully fold the warmed spinach and artichoke mixture into the cream cheese until well combined.
4
Add the grated Parmesan cheese, crushed red pepper flakes, salt, garlic powder, and black pepper to the mixture. Stir everything together until evenly blended.
5
Transfer the dip into a serving bowl and serve warm with an assortment of crackers, tortilla chips, or toasted bread slices. For a lighter option, substitute reduced-fat cream cheese.
Nutrition Information
5.3g
Fat
2g
Carbs
3.7g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Creamy Spinach and Artichoke Dip?
It is a rich and savory appetizer that combines tender artichoke hearts, spinach, cream cheese, and Parmesan with a touch of red pepper flakes.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe makes 6 servings.
How many calories are in one serving of the dip?
There are 75 calories per serving.
What are the main ingredients?
The main ingredients include artichoke hearts, frozen chopped spinach, cream cheese, and grated Parmesan cheese.
Can I use canned artichoke hearts?
Yes, you can use canned or frozen artichoke hearts, provided they are not marinated.
Does the spinach need to be thawed?
Yes, the recipe specifies using 1/2 cup of frozen chopped spinach that has been thawed.
How much cream cheese do I need?
You will need one 8-ounce package of softened cream cheese.
Can I make a lower-fat version of this dip?
Yes, you can substitute reduced-fat cream cheese for a lighter option.
What kind of cheese is added besides cream cheese?
The recipe calls for 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese.
Is this spinach and artichoke dip spicy?
It has a slight kick from 1/2 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes.
How do I cook the spinach and artichokes in the microwave?
Microwave them on high for 4 minutes, stir, then microwave for another 2-3 minutes until the artichokes are tender.
Why do I need to cover the bowl with plastic wrap?
Covering the bowl traps steam to cook the vegetables, but you must leave a small slit for steam to escape.
How long should I soften the cream cheese in the microwave?
Heat the cream cheese on high for 1 minute until it is softened.
Can I prepare this recipe without a microwave?
Yes, you can soften the cream cheese in a saucepan over medium heat until warm.
How much fat is in one serving?
Each serving contains 5.3g of fat.
What is the protein content per serving?
There are 3.7g of protein in each serving.
Are there many carbohydrates in this dip?
No, it is relatively low in carbs with only 2g per serving.
What seasonings are used in this recipe?
The dip is seasoned with salt, garlic powder, and ground black pepper.
What should I do after microwaving the vegetables?
You should drain any excess moisture before folding them into the cream cheese.
How do I serve this dip?
Serve it warm with crackers, tortilla chips, or toasted bread slices.
Is this recipe suitable for parties?
Yes, it is described as a perfect appetizer for gatherings, game days, or cozy nights in.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are a total of 8 ingredients.
What is the preparation for the artichoke hearts?
They should be diced and can be either frozen or canned.
How much garlic powder is used?
The recipe uses 1/8 teaspoon of garlic powder.
Can I use fresh spinach?
The recipe calls for frozen chopped spinach, but you could use fresh spinach if you cook and drain it first.
Is this a quick recipe?
Yes, it is a quick and easy recipe thanks to the use of the microwave.
How much salt is included?
The recipe requires 1/4 teaspoon of salt.
What is the specific amount of black pepper?
The recipe uses 1 dash of ground black pepper.
Can I use marinated artichokes?
No, the recipe specifically recommends using non-marinated artichoke hearts.
How much Parmesan cheese is needed?
You will need 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese.