Save A creamy, flavorful spinach dip loaded with savory herbs and crunchy water chestnuts, served inside a crusty bread bowl—perfect for parties and gatherings.
This dip has always been my go-to appetizer for gatherings because it impresses guests and is easy to prepare ahead of time.
Ingredients
- Frozen chopped spinach: 1 (10 oz / 280 g) package, thawed and well-drained
- Mayonnaise: 1 cup (240 g)
- Sour cream: 1 cup (240 g)
- Water chestnuts: 1 (8 oz / 225 g) can, drained and finely chopped
- Dry vegetable soup mix: 1 (1 oz / 28 g) packet (e.g. Knorr)
- Green onions: 2, finely sliced
- Garlic powder: 1/2 teaspoon
- Freshly ground black pepper: 1/4 teaspoon
- Salt (optional): 1/4 teaspoon
- Large round loaf of sourdough or country bread: 1
- Baguette or extra bread: for dipping
- Assorted raw vegetables: (carrots, celery, bell peppers), sliced, for dipping
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, dry vegetable soup mix, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt.
- Prepare Spinach:
- Squeeze all excess moisture from the thawed spinach, then add spinach to the bowl.
- Mix:
- Stir in chopped water chestnuts and green onions until well mixed.
- Chill:
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow flavors to meld.
- Prepare Bread:
- Slice the top off the round bread loaf and hollow out the center, leaving a 1-inch (2.5 cm) thick shell. Cut the removed bread and extra baguette into bite-sized cubes for dipping.
- Serve:
- Just before serving, spoon the chilled spinach dip into the prepared bread bowl and place on a large platter surrounded by bread cubes and assorted vegetables.
Save This recipe always brings the family together as everyone dips in and enjoys sharing.
Variations
Swap sour cream for Greek yogurt to create a tangier and lighter version of the dip.
Pairings
This dip pairs excellently with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a light lager.
Tips for Serving
Keep the dip chilled until just before serving and use a sturdy bread bowl to hold the dip without leaking.
Save Enjoy this classic spinach dip as the perfect party starter that everyone will love.
Cooking Guide
- → How is the spinach prepared for the dip?
The spinach is thawed and then thoroughly drained to remove excess moisture before mixing with other ingredients.
- → Why are water chestnuts added?
Water chestnuts provide a crunchy texture that contrasts nicely with the creamy base, adding freshness to each bite.
- → What type of bread works best for the bowl?
A sturdy, round sourdough or country loaf is ideal to hold the dip without becoming soggy too quickly.
- → Can the dip be prepared ahead of time?
Yes, chilling the mixture for at least two hours enhances flavor, and it can be made a day in advance for convenience.
- → What are good dippers alongside the bread cubes?
Assorted raw vegetables like carrots, celery, and bell peppers complement the bread cubes and add freshness.