Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?

Yes, but you'll need about 1 pound of fresh spinach. Cook it down until wilted, cool completely, and squeeze out all excess moisture before adding to the dip. Frozen is actually easier to work with for this recipe.

I don't like cottage cheese. Will I taste it in this dip?

Not at all! The long blending process completely transforms the cottage cheese, eliminating the curdy texture that most people object to. The flavor becomes mild and creamy, with no telltale cottage cheese taste.

Can I make this dip without a high-speed blender?

While a high-speed blender gives the smoothest results, you can use a food processor or even an immersion blender. Just increase the blending time to ensure you get rid of all the graininess from the cottage cheese.

How can I make this dip vegetarian if the Knorr mix contains chicken?

Look for the Knorr Vegetable Recipe Mix specifically (not the Knorr Vegetable Soup Mix), which is typically vegetarian. Always check the label to be sure, or substitute with a homemade blend of dried vegetables, herbs, and salt.

Cottage Cheese Spinach Dip Recipe

Description

This creamy Cottage Cheese Spinach Dip is a healthy, protein-packed twist on the classic party favorite. Made with low-fat cottage cheese, non-fat Greek yogurt, and flavorful vegetables, this dip is perfect for gatherings or as a nutritious snack. With a smooth and rich texture, it’s easy to prepare ahead of time and pairs well with crackers, veggies, or bread.

Ingredients

Units Scale

Main Ingredients

16 oz. low-fat cottage cheese
1/2 cup (112g) non-fat plain Greek yogurt
10 oz. frozen chopped spinach, cooked, cooled and squeezed dry
1 package Knorr Vegetable Recipe Mix
8 oz. water chestnuts, drained and chopped
3 green onions, chopped
1/2 tsp. garlic powder
Salt and black pepper to taste

Optional

1–2 tsp. honey (to reduce tartness, if desired)

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Instructions

Blend Cottage Cheese and Yogurt: In a high-speed blender, add the cottage cheese and Greek yogurt. Blend until the mixture is fully smooth and no chalky texture from the cottage cheese remains; this should take about 5 minutes.
Combine Remaining Ingredients: Remove the blender blade. Add the chopped spinach, Knorr Vegetable Recipe Mix, water chestnuts, green onions, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper directly to the blender container. Use a rubber spatula to combine all ingredients thoroughly and then transfer the mixture to a large bowl. This helps ensure you get all of the creamy base out and mixed well.
Chill the Dip: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the dip for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld together.
Adjust and Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or additional garlic powder as needed. If the dip is too tart, stir in 1-2 teaspoons of honey. Serve chilled with your favorite dippers.

Notes

Blending the cottage cheese and yogurt long enough is key to achieving a smooth, creamy base.
If you prefer a milder flavor, add honey to balance the tanginess of Greek yogurt.
For a chunkier dip, fold in the remaining ingredients by hand instead of in the blender.
Serve with crackers, sliced baguette, or fresh veggies.
This dip can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator.

Nutrition

Serving Size: about 1/2 cup
Calories: 85
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 390mg
Fat: 1g
Saturated Fat: 0.5g
Unsaturated Fat: 0.5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 8g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 10g
Cholesterol: 5mg