Anchovy Dip
A savory anchovy dip with creamy and herbaceous flavors, perfect for pairing with crisp vegetables and ideal for entertaining or light snacking.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Blend well the mayonnaise and softened cream cheese.
- Add the anchovy paste, minced parsley, chopped chives, pressed garlic, lemon juice, tarragon vinegar, salt, and pepper.
- Blend all ingredients until smooth and well combined.
- Serve with crisp vegetables such as radishes, carrots, cucumber slices, celery, cauliflower, and broccoli.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, ensure your cream cheese is thoroughly softened before blending. You can substitute Greek yogurt for a lighter option, or use fresh anchovies if you prefer a more robust flavor. Fresh herbs can also be swapped; try dill or basil instead of parsley and chives for a different twist. This dip pairs beautifully with crisp vegetables, making it a perfect addition to any seafood recipes.
Serving Suggestions
This anchovy dip is ideal as a spread for crackers or as a dip for fresh vegetables like radishes, carrots, and cucumber slices. It also works well as a topping for baked potatoes or as a spread on sandwiches. For a more extensive spread, consider pairing it with dishes like Sole Gratin or Shrimp And Clam Bites for a delightful appetizer platter.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain its creamy texture, stir before serving again. If it thickens too much, you can add a splash of milk or additional lemon juice to loosen it up. Avoid freezing, as the texture may change when thawed.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Anchovy Dip contains roughly 313 calories, with 8g protein, 17g carbohydrates, and 26g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (88% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (62% of the Daily Value), and iron (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 816mg per serving (35% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dip ahead of time?
Yes, this anchovy dip can be made a day in advance. Just keep it covered in the refrigerator. The flavors will meld beautifully overnight, enhancing the overall taste. Just give it a good stir before serving to ensure the ingredients are well combined.
What can I substitute for anchovy paste?
If you're looking for a substitute for anchovy paste, consider using miso paste for a similar umami flavor, or a combination of Worcestershire sauce and a little salt. However, keep in mind that this may alter the flavor profile slightly.
Is this dip suitable for vegetarians?
Unfortunately, this dip is not vegetarian due to the anchovy paste. However, you can create a vegetarian version by omitting the anchovy paste and adding a bit more garlic and herbs for flavor. Nutritional yeast can also provide a savory taste that mimics some of the umami qualities.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).