Are you looking for a quick and easy recipe that's both delicious and impressive? Look no further! This creamy Seafood Spinach Dip is perfect as a party appetizer or a light yet satisfying weeknight meal. It's packed with flavor, brimming with healthy ingredients, and comes together faster than you might think. Get ready to elevate your dinner table (or your next gathering!) with this simple yet stunning recipe.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (10 ounce) package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
- 1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon dried dill
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup cooked shrimp, chopped (or crab, or a mix!)
- 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional, for topping)
Instructions:
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Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This simple step builds a wonderful flavor base for the dip.
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Combine the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the sautéed onion and garlic mixture with the thawed and squeezed spinach, softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, dill, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until everything is well combined and creamy.
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Add the Seafood: Gently fold in the chopped cooked shrimp (or crab, or your preferred seafood). Be careful not to overmix, as you want to preserve the texture of the seafood.
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Bake (Optional): For a warm and bubbly dip, transfer the mixture to an oven-safe dish. Sprinkle with the mozzarella cheese (if using) and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
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Serve and Enjoy: Serve the Seafood Spinach Dip warm or cold with your favorite crackers, toasted baguette slices, or vegetable sticks.
Tips and Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Herb variations: Experiment with different herbs like parsley, chives, or tarragon.
- Cheese variations: Try using different cheeses like cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend of your favorites.
- Seafood choices: Feel free to substitute other types of seafood like lobster, scallops, or a combination. Just be sure it’s pre-cooked.
- Make it ahead: You can prepare the dip ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to serve. If baking, simply bake it when you're ready to serve.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe provides a healthy and delicious meal option. Nutritional information will vary based on specific ingredients and portion size. For a precise nutritional analysis, use an online nutrition calculator and input your exact ingredients and serving size. However, expect this dish to be relatively low in carbohydrates and high in protein and healthy fats.
This Seafood Spinach Dip is a versatile and flavorful dish that's perfect for any occasion. Its ease of preparation and delicious taste make it a winner for both beginner and experienced cooks. Whether you're searching for easy recipes, healthy meals, quick dinner ideas, or simply delicious dishes, this recipe is a surefire hit. Enjoy!