Spinach Artichoke Spread
A creamy, savory spinach artichoke spread packed with Parmesan and garlic, perfect for appetizers or snacking with crackers and loved by vegetable lovers and party hosts alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Thaw the creamed spinach and press out the water.
- Drain the artichokes very well.
- Mince the drained artichokes.
- Combine the minced artichokes and the creamed spinach, mixing well.
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and finely minced garlic, mixing thoroughly.
- Add salt and pepper to taste.
- Adjust seasonings as desired.
- Serve with assorted crackers.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider mixing in a bit of cream cheese or sour cream. If you want a bit of a kick, add some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. Fresh spinach can be used instead of creamed spinach; just sauté it down and blend in some heavy cream. Also, feel free to substitute the Parmesan with other hard cheeses like Pecorino for a different flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This Spinach Artichoke Spread is fantastic served with assorted crackers, toasted baguette slices, or fresh vegetable sticks. For a complete appetizer platter, pair it with olives, nuts, or even some holiday bars for a sweet contrast. It also makes a delicious dip for tortilla chips or pita chips, adding versatility to your serving options.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, gently warm the spread in a microwave or on the stovetop, stirring occasionally to ensure it heats evenly. Adding a splash of cream or milk can help restore its creamy consistency if it thickens too much.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spinach Artichoke Spread contains roughly 85 calories, with 8g protein, 12g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is a good source of protein (15% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (10% of the Daily Value), and calcium (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 812mg 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 spread ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the spread a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just remember to let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving, which enhances the flavors and makes it easier to spread.
Is there a way to make this recipe healthier?
Yes! You can use low-fat or fat-free creamed spinach and cheese options, or even Greek yogurt as a substitute for part of the cheese. This will reduce the overall fat content without sacrificing too much flavor, making it a lighter option for your gatherings.
Can I freeze the Spinach Artichoke Spread?
While it's possible to freeze the spread, the texture may change once thawed. If you choose to freeze it, do so in a tightly sealed container. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating, and stir well to restore some creaminess. However, fresh is always best!
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).