French Herb Dip Recipe: A Fresh and Flavorful Appetizer
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 24 hours
Total Time: 24 hours 5 minutes
Yield: Approximately 1¾ cups
Category: Cheese
Keywords: For Large Groups, Easy, Fresh Herbs, Dip, Appetizer, Healthy
Description
This French Herb Dip offers a fresh and tangy flavor profile, perfect for a casual snack or a more festive gathering. The process starts by creating homemade yogurt cheese, which serves as the creamy base for this dip. With its delightful herbal notes, it’s an excellent way to make use of your herb garden. If fresh herbs aren’t available, feel free to swap them with dried versions (just reduce the quantities). While the prep time is minimal, the “cooking” time is actually the time it takes for the yogurt to drain in the fridge, creating that thick, cheese-like consistency. The dip has a refreshing and creamy texture that pairs beautifully with vegetables, crackers, or even as a spread on sandwiches.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Plain yogurt | 1 cup |
| Garlic (minced) | 1 clove |
| Green onion (chopped) | 1 |
| Lemon zest | 1 tsp |
| Fresh tarragon (chopped) | 1 tbsp |
| Fresh basil (chopped) | 1 tbsp |
| Fresh oregano (chopped) | 1 tbsp |
| Fresh parsley (chopped) | 1 tbsp |
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 22.4 |
| Fat | 1.2 g |
| Saturated Fat | 0.7 g |
| Cholesterol | 4.5 mg |
| Sodium | 16.4 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 1.8 g |
| Fiber | 0.1 g |
| Sugars | 1.6 g |
| Protein | 1.3 g |
Instructions
-
Make Yogurt Cheese:
Start by preparing the yogurt cheese. Set a sieve or a large funnel over a bowl or container, then line the sieve with a coffee filter. Pour the plain yogurt into the sieve, allowing the liquid to drain out. Let the yogurt sit in the refrigerator for 24 to 36 hours, until it reaches a thick, cheese-like consistency. -
Mix the Dip:
Once the yogurt has drained and thickened, transfer it to a bowl. Add the minced garlic, chopped green onion, lemon zest, and fresh herbs (tarragon, basil, oregano, and parsley). Stir until all ingredients are fully incorporated. -
Refrigerate and Serve:
Store the dip in the refrigerator until ready to serve. This dip can be enjoyed chilled, making it a great make-ahead option for parties or gatherings. Pair with your favorite vegetables, crackers, or chips for a delicious snack.
Serving Suggestions
This dip pairs wonderfully with crunchy fresh vegetables such as cucumber slices, carrot sticks, and celery, or with toasted pita bread and chips. For a more indulgent treat, try spreading it on sandwiches or wraps for a herbaceous, creamy twist.
This simple yet flavorful French Herb Dip makes a fantastic addition to any appetizer table, and the use of fresh herbs brings a vibrant, garden-fresh taste that’s sure to be a hit.
