Get ready to enjoy a light and flavorful twist on the classic spinach dip! This version swaps out the traditional sour cream and mayonnaise for cottage cheese, making it a protein-packed, low-calorie, and delectable alternative. Perfect for any occasion, this dip offers a creamy texture and a burst of flavor that will surely make it a hit at your next gathering.

Spinach is not just a leafy green; it’s a nutritional powerhouse. Rich in iron, vitamins A and C, and several antioxidants, spinach provides essential nutrients that support eye health, reduce oxidative stress, and may even help regulate blood pressure. When combined with cottage cheese, which is high in protein and calcium, this dip becomes a nutritious option that you can enjoy guilt-free. Incorporating spinach and cottage cheese into your regular diet can help boost your overall health, support muscle repair, and maintain strong bones.

Whether you’re serving it as a side dish, appetizer, or a spread on sandwiches, this spinach dip is a versatile addition to any meal. With its combination of nutrient-dense spinach and creamy cottage cheese, this dip is not only delicious but also a great way to add more greens and protein to your diet.

Ingredients

• 1 medium-sized onion (100 g)
• 3 tbsp. olive oil
• ¼ tsp. salt
• 200 g defrosted spinach (or equivalent of fresh spinach)
• 1 large garlic clove
• 1 tsp. dried dill
• Black pepper to taste
• Chili flakes (to taste, optional)
• 1 cup cottage cheese (200 g)
• 60 g Parmesan cheese
• 1 tbsp. lemon juice
• Fresh spinach leaves (for garnish)
• 1 tbsp. extra olive oil (for garnish, optional)

Directions

1. Finely chop the medium-sized onion. In a pan over medium-high heat, add olive oil, the chopped onion, and salt. Stir and cook for 2-3 minutes or until the onion starts to brown.
2. Add the defrosted or fresh spinach to the pan with the onions. Add a minced garlic clove, dried dill, black pepper to taste, and chili flakes to taste. Continue to stir and sauté all the ingredients.
3. Continue sautéing for 8-10 minutes. Set the cooked spinach mixture aside to cool.
4. In a large mixing bowl, add the cottage cheese and blend until smooth and creamy.
5. Add ¾ of the cooked spinach mixture, olive oil, Parmesan cheese, and lemon juice to the blended cottage cheese. Blend until you reach a smooth consistency.
6. Add the remaining cooked spinach mixture to the blended dip and stir to incorporate the larger pieces of spinach for texture.
7. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to thicken and allow the flavors to infuse.
8. Before serving, garnish with fresh spinach leaves and a drizzle of extra olive oil on top.
9. Serve with your favorite crackers or as a side dish or appetizer.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Pan Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Fridge Time: 1 hour
Servings: 6

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Energy: 173 calories
• Protein: 8.04 g
• Fat: 13.48 g
• Carbohydrates: 5.99 g
• Fiber: 1.2 g

Storage

• Store the leftover spinach dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 5 days.
• This dip pairs wonderfully with a variety of crackers, toasted bread, or fresh vegetables. It also works as a spread on sandwiches or wraps.

Additional Recommendations

•  This spinach dip is a delightful and nutritious option for any occasion.
• Enjoy it as a party appetizer, a healthy snack, or even as a spread on sandwiches or wraps for a quick and easy meal.