Appetizer > Mexican > Oaxacan Cheese

Oaxaca Cheese and Spinach Dip Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 cup chopped spinach
- 1 cup shredded Oaxaca cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and minced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- Salt and pepper to taste

Special equipment needed:
- Oven-safe baking dish
- Mixing bowl
- Cutting board
- Knife

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F.

2. In a mixing bowl, combine chopped spinach, shredded Oaxaca cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, chopped green onions, chopped cilantro, minced jalapeño pepper, minced garlic, lime juice, salt, and pepper.

3. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.

4. Transfer the mixture to an oven-safe baking dish.

5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

6. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.

7. Serve warm with tortilla chips or sliced vegetables.


Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 20-25 minutes
Temperature:
350°F
Serving size:
4-6 people

Nutritional information:
Calories: 235
Fat: 21g
Carbohydrates: 4g
Protein: 8g
Sodium: 320mg

Substitutions for ingredients:
- Oaxaca cheese can be substituted with mozzarella cheese or Monterey Jack cheese.
- Sour cream can be substituted with Greek yogurt or cream cheese.
- Mayonnaise can be substituted with plain yogurt or avocado.

Variations:
- Add cooked and crumbled chorizo for a meaty version.
- Use different types of cheese like cheddar, pepper jack, or queso fresco.
- Add diced tomatoes or roasted red peppers for extra flavor.

Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to squeeze out any excess water from the spinach before adding it to the mixture.
- If you want a spicier dip, leave the seeds in the jalapeño pepper.
- You can make this dip ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake.

Storage instructions:
Leftover dip can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating instructions:
Reheat the dip in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.

Presentation ideas:
Serve the dip in a colorful bowl or on a platter with tortilla chips arranged around it.

Garnishes:
Garnish with additional chopped cilantro or sliced jalapeño peppers.

Pairings:
Serve with a cold beer or a margarita.

Suggested side dishes:
Serve with fresh guacamole, salsa, or a side 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 cheese or sour cream to thicken it up.

Food safety advice:
Make sure to refrigerate any leftover dip promptly to prevent bacterial growth.

Food history:
Oaxaca cheese is a type of Mexican cheese that originated in the state of Oaxaca. It is a stringy cheese that is similar to mozzarella and is often used in quesadillas, enchiladas, and other Mexican dishes.

Flavor profiles:
This dip has a creamy and cheesy flavor with a hint of spice from the jalapeño pepper.

Serving suggestions:
Serve this dip as an appetizer or snack at your next party or gathering.

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Region: Mexican

Taste: Savory, Creamy, Cheesy, Tangy, Spicy