No Name Spread
A flavorful spinach and green chili dip topped with melted cheese, perfect for parties and served with crackers for a savory appetizer.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Reserve 2 tablespoons of cheese to top with.
- Place the mixture into a small baking dish.
- Top with the reserved cheese and sprinkle with paprika.
- Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.
- Bake at 250°F for 30 minutes.
- Serve with crackers.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider mixing in some grated Parmesan cheese or a splash of lemon juice. If you're out of mayonnaise, Greek yogurt can serve as a healthier substitute. To ensure the spinach is well-drained, press it in a clean kitchen towel. This dish can also be made ahead of time and refrigerated before baking, making it perfect for entertaining or gatherings.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this delightful spread with an assortment of crackers, or even alongside slices of toasted baguette. It also pairs beautifully with a fresh vegetable platter for a colorful presentation. For a complete appetizer spread, consider serving it with a light salad, such as a Strawberry Swirl Salad Squares, to balance the richness of the dip.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the spread in an oven-safe dish and warm it in the oven at 250°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. Avoid microwaving as it may alter the texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of No Name Spread contains roughly 133 calories, with 4g protein, 7g carbohydrates, and 10g fat.
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! You'll need about 10 ounces of fresh spinach. Just sauté it in a pan until wilted, then drain and chop it before mixing it into the dip. This will give your spread a fresher taste and vibrant color.
Is there a way to make this recipe spicier?
Absolutely! You can add diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce to the mixture for an extra kick. Alternatively, use spicy green chilies instead of the regular Ortega green chilies to enhance the heat level.
Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this spread a day in advance. Just mix all the ingredients and store it in the refrigerator. When you're ready to serve, simply bake it as directed. Preparing it ahead of time allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
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).