Ingredients:

  • 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened (use full-fat for best texture)
  • 1 cup (240 g) sour cream (or Greek yogurt for tangier, thicker dip)
  • 1/2 cup (120 g) mayonnaise (use regular or light as preferred)
  • 1 tablespoon (15 mL) fresh lemon juice
  • 10 oz (280 g) frozen chopped spinach, thawed and very well drained OR 10 oz (280 g) fresh spinach, wilted and thoroughly squeezed dry
  • 1/2 cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese (freshly grated recommended)
  • 4 oz (115 g) canned water chestnuts, drained and finely chopped (optional — adds crunch)
  • 3 green onions (scallions), thinly sliced (about 30 g)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced (or 1 teaspoon garlic powder)
  • 1/2 teaspoon (2.5 g) kosher salt (adjust to taste)
  • 1/4 teaspoon (1 g) freshly ground black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons (8 g) fresh parsley or dill, chopped (for freshness)
  • Optional: 1/4 teaspoon cayenne or a few dashes hot sauce for a touch of heat

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the spinach: If using frozen, thaw fully and squeeze in a fine-mesh sieve or clean towel/cheesecloth until very dry. If using fresh, wash, roughly chop, wilt in a hot skillet 2-3 minutes, cool, and squeeze dry.
  2. Soften and combine base: In a large bowl, beat or smash softened cream cheese until smooth. Add sour cream, mayonnaise, and lemon juice; mix until creamy and homogenous (use a whisk or hand mixer for a silkier texture).
  3. Add flavorings and mix-ins: Stir in drained spinach, grated Parmesan, green onions, water chestnuts (if using), garlic (or garlic powder), salt, pepper, and chopped parsley or dill. Mix thoroughly and taste; adjust seasoning with salt, lemon, pepper, or hot sauce.
  4. Chill to meld flavors: Transfer to an airtight container or serving bowl, cover, and chill at least 1 hour (preferably 2-4 hours). Chilling firms the dip and lets flavors marry.
  5. Final prep & serve: Before serving, stir once, taste for final seasoning, garnish with extra chopped herbs, a drizzle of olive oil, or a sprinkle of paprika or Parmesan. Serve chilled with crackers, toasted baguette slices, chips, or seasonal vegetables.