Hot Florentine Dip(Microwave)
A warm, creamy spinach and ham dip with a crunchy pecan topping, perfect for parties or casual gatherings. Its rich flavors of cream cheese, sour cream, and seasoned spinach make it a crowd-pleaser that pairs beautifully with crackers or bread, offering a comforting and savory appetizer experience.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Microwave the cream cheese in a 2-quart casserole at High for 30 seconds.
- Add the milk, minced onion, garlic salt, and black pepper to the cream cheese and mix together.
- Microwave the frozen chopped spinach on High for 5 to 6 minutes, rotating 1/2 turn after 3 minutes, then drain thoroughly.
- Stir the drained spinach and drained chopped ham into the cheese mixture.
- Fold in the sour cream and chopped pecans, if using.
- Microwave at High for 4 to 6 minutes, stirring gently after 2 minutes and then every minute, until very hot.
- Place the casserole on a candle warmer or warming tray and serve with crackers.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier dip, consider using mascarpone cheese in place of cream cheese. If you prefer a bit of heat, add some crushed red pepper flakes. You can also substitute the ham with cooked bacon or a vegetarian option like chopped artichokes. Ensure the spinach is well-drained to avoid a watery dip. This dish is great for parties and pairs well with options like Crunchy Sunflower Coleslaw.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Hot Florentine Dip warm with an assortment of crackers, baguette slices, or fresh vegetable sticks. Consider pairing it with a crisp salad or sides like Green Beans Pennsylvania Dutch for a complete meal. This dip is perfect for gatherings and can be served alongside other appetizers like Buffet Cheese Eggs.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave in short intervals, stirring frequently until warmed through. Alternatively, you can place the dip in a small oven-safe dish and warm it in the oven at 350°F until heated. Avoid overheating to maintain the creamy texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hot Florentine Dip(Microwave) contains roughly 1122 calories, with 19g protein, 80g carbohydrates, and 87g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (56% of the Daily Value), iron (51% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (45% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 464mg per serving (20% 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 fresh spinach instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh spinach! Just sauté about 6 cups of fresh spinach until wilted, then drain and chop it before mixing it into the dip. This will enhance the flavor and texture, making it a delightful option for those who prefer fresh ingredients.
Is there a vegetarian option for this dip?
Absolutely! You can easily make this dip vegetarian by omitting the ham and replacing it with artichoke hearts or other vegetables of your choice. Additionally, adding some diced bell peppers or mushrooms can enhance the flavor and texture without sacrificing taste.
How can I make this dip spicier?
To make the Hot Florentine Dip spicier, mix in some diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce. You can also incorporate pepper jack cheese for an extra kick. Adjust the heat according to your preference for a dip that suits your taste.
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).