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.
I remember making this spinach dip for my family holiday get-together: everyone hovered around the bread bowl until it was empty, asking for the recipe before the night was over. It has become a staple for our parties now.
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: 1
- Assorted raw vegetables: Sliced carrots, celery, bell peppers for dipping
Instructions
- Mix base:
- 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 and add to the bowl.
- Add vegetables:
- Stir in chopped water chestnuts and green onions until well mixed.
- Chill:
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours for flavors to meld.
- Prepare bread bowl:
- Slice off the top of the round bread loaf and hollow out the center, leaving a 1-inch shell. Cut removed bread and baguette into bite-sized cubes for dipping.
- Serve:
- Spoon chilled spinach dip into the bread bowl just before serving. Arrange bread cubes and vegetables around the bowl on a platter.
Save When my kids help assemble the bread bowl and arrange the veggie dippers, serving up the spinach dip turns into a fun family ritual that everyone looks forward to.
Serving Suggestions
This dip pairs beautifully with crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a light lager: perfect for casual gatherings or more festive occasions.
Allergen Information
Contains wheat, egg, and milk. The soup mix may also have soy. Always check labels for allergens if required.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: 250 calories, 15 g total fat, 23 g carbohydrates, 4 g protein.
Save Mix, chill, and serve: this spinach dip guarantees empty bowls and happy guests at every party.
Cooking Questions
- → How do I keep the bread bowl from getting soggy?
To prevent sogginess, hollow out the bread just before serving and fill it with chilled dip right before guests arrive.
- → Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh spinach works well if cooked lightly and thoroughly drained to remove excess moisture.
- → What can I use instead of water chestnuts?
For similar crunch, try finely chopped jicama or celery as a substitute.
- → Is there a way to make this dip tangier?
Swap sour cream with Greek yogurt for a tangier, lighter flavor profile.
- → What type of bread is best for the bowl?
A crusty round loaf like sourdough or country bread holds the dip well and provides a sturdy shell for serving.