Best Spinach and Artichoke Dip Appetizer
I don’t even know where to begin with this easy appetizer, healthy, great for a crown appetizer.
So, I switched the traditional spinach and artichoke dip up by removing the cream cheese and replacing it with protein packed with Cannellini Beans. I also reduced the standard mayonnaise letting the Greek yogurt be the stronger and healthier base.
Ingredients:
- 1 (15 oz) can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (10 oz) package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
- 1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and roughly chopped
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (plus extra for topping)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
Preheat Oven:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a medium-sized baking dish.
In a food processor, blend the cannellini beans, Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, garlic, lemon juice, and onion powder until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste. In a large mixing bowl, combine the blended bean mixture, chopped artichokes, spinach, Parmesan cheese, and mozzarella cheese. Stir until well combined.
Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle additional mozzarella cheese on top for that irresistible gooey finish.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the dip is bubbling and the top is golden brown.
Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Pair with sliced baguette, tortilla chips, crackers, or fresh veggies for dipping.
Tips:
- Make It Ahead: Prepare the dip up to a day in advance and refrigerate. Bake just before serving for fresh, gooey goodness.
- Add Some Heat: Toss in a pinch of cayenne or extra red pepper flakes if you like a little spice.
- Chunky or Smooth: For a chunkier texture, skip blending the beans and mash them lightly with a fork instead.
- Travels well: This is an easy travel dish, if you’re bringing an appetizer to someone’s house.
This creamy, hearty dip has the perfect balance of tangy artichokes, savory spinach, and a protein-packed twist with cannellini beans. It’s a party favorite that’s secretly a little healthier—win-win!
- Serves: 8-10 People
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking: 20 minutes
- Difficulties: easy