Sunday, January 3, 2010

The Best Dip Ever

Do you like dip? And crackers or a baguette or what have you? Then you absolutely must make this Warm Spinach Mascarpone dip from Steamy Kitchen. If you haven't had mascarpone cheese, you are seriously missing out. It is similar in consistency to cream cheese, but the flavor is so light and airy, almost watery, and creamy. And its divine when you spread a little over figs and top with honey.


Warm Spinach Mascarpone Dip
adapted from Steamy Kitchen

1 package baby spinach

1 small onion, minced

2 Tbsp. olive oil

1/2 teaspoon sea salt

1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

1/4 teaspoon New Mexico hot chili powder

8 ounces mascarpone cheese, softened at room temperature

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Preheat the oven to 350F.

Heat a saute pan over medium heat. When hot, add the olive oil and swirl to coat. Add the onions and saute until soft and translucent, about 4-5 minutes Add the spinach and saute until wilted. Season and toss with salt, pepper, and chili powder. Turn off the heat and stir in the mascarpone cheese and the grated Parmesan.

Pour into 2 small ramekins (or other oven-safe dish) and bake for 20 minutes until the cheese is bubbling around the edges and slightly browned on top. Serve warm.

And here's how I served it, with sharp cheddar, extra sharp white cheddar, marinated mozzarella balls, roasted garlic stuffed brie, smoked Gouda, and Rondelle cheese spread, along with crackers and sliced sour french bread.

4 comments:

SteamyKitchen said...

Now that's a fantastic cheese plate!

Run Lori Run said...

I almost had a dipping party for the rose bowl game and this dip would have made a great addition, thanks for the recipe. Your photos are lovely too.

Anonymous said...

mischief-making.blogspot.com; You saved my day again.

Anonymous said...

i definitely adore your own posting kind, very remarkable.
don't give up and keep penning seeing that it simply just nicely to follow it,
excited to browse through additional of your well written articles, thanks :)