Zesty Lemon Spinach Dip

πŸ•’ Prep: 10 min
πŸ”₯ Cook: 3 min
🍽 Serves: 6
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If you're in the mood for a dip that's both refreshing and indulgent, look no further than this Zesty Lemon Spinach Dip. Bright lemon zest and fresh dill bring a lively twist to the creamy base, making it a hit for any gathering.

Ingredients for Zesty Lemon Spinach Dip

Spinach is the star, providing both color and a nutrient boost. Wilt it slightly to mellow out its raw flavor while keeping that vibrant green. Sour cream and mayonnaise form the creamy base, with the mayo adding a slight richness that complements the tang of the sour cream. Parmesan cheese offers a salty, nutty depth, while lemon zest and lemon juice bring a fresh zing that cuts through the richness. Garlic powder, salt, and black pepper round out the flavors, adding savory and spicy notes. Dill and green onions add freshness and a bit of crunch, making every bite interesting.

Tips & Tricks

  • For a smoother texture, use a food processor to chop the spinach.
  • Adjust the amount of lemon juice to suit your taste preference β€” more for extra tanginess, less if you prefer a milder flavor.
  • Always use fresh ingredients for the best flavor, especially the dill and lemon.
  • If you have time, let the dip sit overnight in the fridge. The flavors develop even more with time.

Serving Suggestions

This dip pairs wonderfully with crisp vegetable sticks like carrots, celery, and bell peppers. For a heartier option, serve it with pita chips or crusty bread. It's also a great addition to a charcuterie board, bringing a fresh and creamy element to the spread.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen spinach. Just make sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly to remove excess moisture before using.
How long will this dip keep in the fridge?
It will last about 3–4 days in the fridge when stored in an airtight container.
Can I make this dip vegan?
Absolutely! Substitute the sour cream and mayonnaise with vegan alternatives, and use nutritional yeast in place of parmesan for a similar umami flavor.

Zesty Lemon Spinach Dip Recipe Walkthrough

Start by grabbing a large skillet and heating it over medium. Toss in your fresh spinach and let it cook down until it's wilted, which should take about three minutes. Don’t worry if the pile of spinach looks huge at first; it shrinks down significantly.

Once your spinach is wilted, take it off the heat and let it cool for a few minutes. This makes it easier to handle and chop. After it’s cooled slightly, chop the spinach finely so it's well-distributed in the dip.

Next, in a large mixing bowl, combine your sour cream, mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, lemon zest, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix these ingredients until they’re smooth and well-blended. This forms the base of your dip.

Now, stir in the chopped spinach, dill, and green onions. Make sure everything is thoroughly combined so each scoop gets a bit of everything. Transfer the mixture to a serving dish, cover it, and pop it in the fridge for at least an hour. This chilling time is crucial for the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Perfect balance of creaminess and tanginess.
  • Quick to prepare and even quicker to disappear at parties.
  • Uses fresh ingredients for a vibrant flavor.
  • Simple enough for a weekday snack but special enough for entertaining.

Ingredients

10 oz fresh spinach
1 cup sour cream
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tbsp lemon zest
2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
1 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
1/4 cup diced green onions

Step-by-step Instructions

1. In a large skillet, cook the fresh spinach over medium heat until wilted, about 3 minutes.
2. Remove spinach from heat and let it cool slightly, then chop it finely.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine sour cream, mayonnaise, grated Parmesan cheese, lemon zest, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
4. Stir in the chopped spinach, fresh dill, and diced green onions until well combined.
5. Transfer the dip to a serving dish and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow flavors to meld.

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