Carolyn'S Artichoke Spread
Creamy, cheesy artichoke spread with garlic and Parmesan, perfect for parties or snacks, offering rich flavors and a smooth texture that pairs well with crackers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain and chop the artichoke hearts.
- Mix the chopped artichokes with minced garlic and mayonnaise.
- Spread the mixture in a baking dish.
- Bake at 350°F for about 40 to 45 minutes.
- Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese before serving.
- Serve warm with crackers.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier spread, consider adding a block of softened cream cheese to the mixture. You can substitute Greek yogurt for half of the mayonnaise for a lighter version. Fresh herbs like parsley or basil can enhance the flavor, and a squeeze of lemon juice can add brightness. If you want a bit of spice, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Serving Suggestions
This artichoke spread is perfect for serving with a variety of dippers like pita chips, fresh vegetables, or toasted baguette slices. It also pairs beautifully with Cheese Spinach Squares for a delightful appetizer spread. Consider adding a fresh green salad on the side for a complete meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover artichoke spread in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it in the oven at 350°F until heated through, about 20 minutes, or microwave in short intervals, stirring in between to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Carolyn'S Artichoke Spread contains roughly 911 calories, with 13g protein, 46g carbohydrates, and 75g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (25% of the Daily Value) and iron (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1902mg per serving (83% 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 use frozen artichoke hearts instead of canned?
Yes, frozen artichoke hearts can be used in place of canned ones. Just make sure to thaw and drain them thoroughly before chopping and mixing them in the recipe. This will help maintain the right texture and flavor.
How can I make this spread ahead of time?
You can prepare the artichoke mixture a day in advance. Just cover the baking dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate. When you're ready to bake, sprinkle the Parmesan on top and bake as directed. This makes it a great option for parties.
Is there a way to make this recipe vegan?
Absolutely! You can use vegan mayonnaise and nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan cheese for a dairy-free version. Additionally, tofu can be blended in for a creamy texture, making this a delicious option for vegetarian recipes.
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).