Dairylea Cheese and Spinach Dip Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 cup Dairylea Cheese, softened
- 1 cup frozen spinach, thawed and drained
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Special equipment needed:
- Mixing bowl
- Electric mixer or whisk
- Serving bowl
- Refrigerator

Step-by-step instructions:

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the softened Dairylea Cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, and grated Parmesan cheese. Mix well with an electric mixer or whisk until smooth.

2. Add the thawed and drained spinach, chopped green onions, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper to the mixing bowl. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.

3. Cover the mixing bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together.

4. Once chilled, transfer the dip to a serving bowl and garnish with additional chopped green onions or grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.


- Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Refrigeration time: 1 hour
Temperature:
- Refrigerate at 40°F or below
Serving size:
- Makes about 2 cups of dip
- Serving size: 2 tablespoons

Nutritional information:
- Calories per serving: 70
- Total fat: 6g
- Saturated fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
- Sodium: 140mg
- Total carbohydrates: 2g
- Dietary fiber: 0g
- Sugars: 1g
- Protein: 2g

Substitutions for ingredients:
- Fresh spinach can be used instead of frozen spinach, but it will need to be cooked and chopped before adding to the dip.
- Greek yogurt can be used instead of sour cream for a healthier option.
- Chopped fresh herbs, such as parsley or basil, can be added for extra flavor.

Variations:
- Add diced tomatoes or roasted red peppers for a pop of color and flavor.
- Substitute the Dairylea Cheese for another type of cheese, such as cheddar or feta.
- Add a dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.

Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to thoroughly drain the spinach to prevent the dip from becoming watery.
- For a smoother texture, blend the dip in a food processor or blender before refrigerating.
- Serve with crackers, tortilla chips, or sliced vegetables.

Storage instructions:
- Store leftover dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating instructions:
- This dip is best served cold, but if you prefer it warm, microwave it in 30-second intervals until heated through.

Presentation ideas:
- Serve the dip in a hollowed-out bread bowl for a fun and festive presentation.
- Arrange the dip in a ring mold and top with additional chopped green onions or grated Parmesan cheese.

Garnishes:
- Chopped green onions
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- Diced tomatoes
- Roasted red peppers

Pairings:
- Crackers
- Tortilla chips
- Sliced vegetables, such as carrots, celery, and bell peppers

Suggested side dishes:
- Grilled chicken skewers
- Crudité platter
- Fresh fruit salad

Troubleshooting advice:
- If the dip is too thick, add a splash of milk or cream to thin it out.
- If the dip is too thin, add more Dairylea Cheese or sour cream to thicken it up.

Food safety advice:
- Make sure to refrigerate the dip promptly after serving to prevent bacterial growth.
- Do not leave the dip out at room temperature for more than 2 hours.

Food history:
- Spinach dip became popular in the 1950s and 1960s as a party appetizer.

Flavor profiles:
- Creamy
- Cheesy
- Savory
- Garlicky

Serving suggestions:
- Serve as an appetizer at parties or gatherings.
- Enjoy as a snack or light lunch.

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Taste: Creamy, Cheesy, Savory, Tangy