Spinach Dip In "Bread Basket"
Creamy spinach dip with savory herbs, perfect for sharing with bread or vegetables at gatherings. Rich, flavorful, and easy to prepare ahead of time.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine sour cream and mayonnaise in a bowl.
- Stir in dry leek soup mix.
- Mix in all remaining ingredients, except bread and crudités.
- Cover and refrigerate for 4 hours or up to 1 day before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a bit of cream cheese to the dip mixture. You can substitute the sourdough or rye loaf with any hearty bread, like pumpernickel or multigrain. Fresh spinach can be used if you prefer, but you'll need to steam and squeeze out excess water. For a twist, add some crushed red pepper for a spicy kick.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the spinach dip in the hollowed-out bread bowl, surrounded by fresh vegetable crudités such as carrots, celery, and bell peppers for dipping. It pairs beautifully with Carrot Salad (Marinated) for a refreshing contrast. This appetizer is perfect for parties, game days, or casual gatherings. Consider providing additional bread pieces for dipping.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover spinach dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The dip may thicken upon chilling, so stir in a tablespoon of sour cream or mayonnaise before serving again. Avoid freezing, as the texture may change. Serve cold or at room temperature for the best flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spinach Dip In "Bread Basket" contains roughly 367 calories, with 10g protein, 69g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and dietary fiber. It also contributes 5g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 spinach dip ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the spinach dip a day in advance. Just follow the recipe and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just be sure to keep it covered to maintain freshness.
What can I serve with spinach dip?
Spinach dip is versatile and can be served with an array of dippers. Ideal choices include sliced baguette, pita chips, and various fresh vegetables like cucumber and bell peppers. For a heartier option, serve it alongside crackers or toasted bread for a satisfying crunch.
Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?
Absolutely! If you prefer fresh spinach, use about 1 pound, wilt it in a pan, and then squeeze out the excess water before mixing it into the dip. This will give a lighter flavor and a vibrant green color to the dish.
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).