Appetizer > Dips > Vegetable Dips

Sunflower Seed and Spinach Dip Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 cup raw sunflower seeds
- 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
- 1/4 cup chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1/4 cup water
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Special equipment needed:
- Food processor or blender

Step-by-step instructions:

1. In a food processor or blender, pulse the sunflower seeds until they are finely ground.
2. Add the spinach, onion, garlic, lemon juice, water, olive oil, salt, and black pepper to the food processor or blender.
3. Pulse the mixture until it is smooth and creamy.
4. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
5. Transfer the dip to a serving bowl and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.


Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Chilling time: 30 minutes
Temperature:
Refrigerate the dip before serving.
Serving size:
Makes about 1 1/2 cups of dip, serving size is 2 tablespoons.

Nutritional information:
Per serving:
Calories: 70
Fat: 6g
Carbohydrates: 3g
Protein: 2g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 1g

Substitutions for ingredients:
- Sunflower seeds can be substituted with cashews or almonds.
- Spinach can be substituted with kale or arugula.
- Olive oil can be substituted with avocado oil or coconut oil.

Variations:
- Add 1/4 cup of nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
- Add 1/4 cup of fresh herbs such as basil or cilantro for extra flavor.
- Add 1/4 cup of roasted red peppers for a smoky flavor.

Tips and tricks:
- Soak the sunflower seeds in water for at least 4 hours before making the dip for a smoother texture.
- Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor.
- Adjust the amount of water depending on how thick or thin you want the dip to be.

Storage instructions:
Store the dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Reheating instructions:
The dip is best served cold, but if you prefer it warm, you can heat it in a saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently until heated through.

Presentation ideas:
Serve the dip in a small bowl with a sprinkle of paprika on top.

Garnishes:
Garnish with fresh herbs such as parsley or chives.

Pairings:
Serve with fresh vegetables such as carrots, celery, or cucumber.

Suggested side dishes:
Serve with pita bread or crackers.

Troubleshooting advice:
- If the dip is too thick, add more water.
- If the dip is too thin, add more sunflower seeds.

Food safety advice:
- Make sure to properly wash the spinach before using it in the dip.
- Store the dip in the refrigerator to prevent bacterial growth.

Food history:
Sunflower seeds have been used in cooking for centuries, particularly in Eastern Europe and Russia. Spinach is believed to have originated in ancient Persia and was introduced to Europe in the 12th century.

Flavor profiles:
The dip has a nutty and slightly tangy flavor.

Serving suggestions:
Serve as an appetizer or snack.

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Taste: Creamy, Savory, Nutty, Tangy, Herby