๐ฝ๏ธ Artery Clogger Spinach Artichoke Dip ๐ฝ๏ธ
What is it?
Artery Clogger Spinach Artichoke Dip is a classic, indulgent appetizer that combines the creamy goodness of cheese with the earthy flavors of spinach and the unique, slightly tangy taste of artichokes. It’s a rich and flavorful dip that’s perfect for parties, game days, or just a cozy night in.
History:
The exact origin of this dip is a bit murky, but it gained popularity in the United States during the 1950s. It’s often associated with casual dining restaurants and sports bars. The name “Artery Clogger” humorously reflects its indulgent nature, given its high-calorie and creamy ingredients.
Components:
- 1 cup of frozen chopped spinach (thawed and drained)
- 1 cup of canned or jarred artichoke hearts (drained and chopped)
- 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup of mayonnaise
- 1 cup of sour cream
- 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 cloves of garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
Steps to Prepare:
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Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375ยฐF (190ยฐC).
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Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the thawed and drained spinach, chopped artichoke hearts, Parmesan cheese, mayonnaise, sour cream, mozzarella cheese, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything thoroughly to ensure an even distribution of ingredients.
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Baking Dish: Transfer the mixture into a baking dish or a cast-iron skillet. You can use an 8×8-inch baking dish or one of a similar size.
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Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the dip is hot and bubbly. You can also broil it for an additional 2-3 minutes at the end to achieve a golden brown crust on top.
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Serve: Remove the dip from the oven and let it cool slightly. Serve it with tortilla chips, baguette slices, pita bread, or vegetable sticks for dipping. Enjoy your indulgent, cheesy, and creamy dip!
Time Needed:
The preparation time for this Spinach Artichoke Dip is around 10-15 minutes. Baking will take an additional 25-30 minutes, so in total, you’ll need approximately 35-45 minutes to make this delicious appetizer.
๐ง๐ฟ๐ Happy dipping! ๐ง๐ฟ๐
Artery Clogger Spinach Artichoke Dip is a delicious and indulgent appetizer, but it’s important to be aware of its nutrition facts and health information, as it is a high-calorie and creamy dish. Here are some general nutrition facts and health considerations:
Nutrition Facts (per serving, approximately 1/4 cup):
- Calories: Around 200-250 calories
- Total Fat: 15-20 grams
- Saturated Fat: 6-8 grams
- Cholesterol: 20-30 milligrams
- Sodium: 350-450 milligrams
- Carbohydrates: 5-7 grams
- Fiber: 1-2 grams
- Protein: 5-7 grams
Health Information:
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High in Calories and Fat: This dip is calorie-dense due to the combination of mayonnaise, sour cream, and cheese. The fat content, especially saturated fat, can be relatively high, which is a concern for heart health.
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Sodium Content: The sodium content in this dip can be significant, mainly from the added cheese and condiments. High sodium intake can contribute to high blood pressure and other health issues.
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Calcium: On the positive side, this dip is a good source of calcium, thanks to the cheese. Calcium is essential for maintaining strong bones and teeth.
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Protein: There’s a moderate amount of protein in this dish, but it’s overshadowed by the fat and calorie content.
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Vegetables: Spinach and artichokes provide some valuable nutrients, including fiber and antioxidants. However, their health benefits can be overshadowed by the high-fat ingredients.
Moderation is Key: While Artery Clogger Spinach Artichoke Dip is undeniably tasty, it should be enjoyed in moderation, especially if you’re concerned about your calorie intake, fat consumption, or sodium levels. It’s a treat best suited for special occasions and not as an everyday snack. Consider pairing it with a variety of fresh vegetables for dipping to increase the fiber and nutrient content of your snack.
