As promised, here’s the recipe to the delicious Spinach Artichoke Dip posted on Instagram (@youngfitfam_). Can you guess the secret ingredient?
Ingredients:
- 16 oz. of cream cheese
- 10 cups of spinach
- I often add some arugula as well. Add more greens if you desire and add less cheese to cut calories. Using a mix of your preferred greens is your choice!
- 1.5 cups of cheese
- (I mixed mozzarella cheese, mild cheddar, Fontina, Asiago & Romano. But I often mix it up adding other cheeses, like Feta, so feel free to construct your own combo!)
- 1 can of artichoke hearts
- 1/4 cup of Parmesan cheese
- 3 tbsp of pesto
- If you guessed pesto as the secret ingredient, you’re sharp as a knife! This adds a hint of flavor, but is not required for the recipe. If you do not want to add pesto, it can easily be removed and still taste delicious, BUT I highly recommend trying it at least once.
- 3 Cloves of garlic
- 1/4 cup of fresh basil
- Spices: basil, parsley, oregano, sage, rosemary, thyme, pepper
- Feel free to experiment with spices as well. These happen to be my favorites to add flavorful variety to this recipe. Spices are a great way to add flavor without adding calories!
Instructions:
1. To prep: Let cream cheese soften for about 20 minutes before mixing & Preheat oven to 350° F.
2. Mix the softened cream cheese in a large bowl.
3. Mix in spinach, cheese, and fresh basil in large bowl.
4. Add artichokes, garlic, pesto, and 1/2 cup of Parmesan cheese.
5. Mix all ingredients thoroughly, adding more of any ingredient if there doesn’t seem to be enough.
6. Transfer from the large bowl to a baking dish and spread evenly. Don’t get too crazy about dip being even around the entire tray- you don’t want to flatten the dip and hinder its ability to rise.
7. Top with 1/2 cup of Parmesan cheese and spices.
8. Place in oven for 20-35 minutes, or your preferred texture. (I prefer slightly golden brown on the top, but not overcooked, as pictured.)
9. Remove from oven. Place on a trivet.
10. Serve with carrots, celery, tortilla chips, or your preferred choice. Bon appetit!
YOUNG FIT FAM 