Creamy Spinach And Water Chestnut Spread Recipe

About this recipe

This diabetic-friendly, vegetarian spread combines creamy textures with the crunch of water chestnuts, perfect for a light dinner or as a versatile dip.

Ingredients

• 1 Kg Fresh Onion Pack. 1kg - Ofoodi African Store
• 1 Bunch Baby Spinach - Bunch
• - Celery
• - Longley Farm Freshly Soured Cream
• 227G Golden Swan Whole Water Chestnuts, 227G
• 230 g Biona Organic Egg-Free Mayonnaise 230 G

Instructions

1. 1. Drain one 227 g tin of water chestnuts and chop them finely.
2. 2. In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of egg-free mayonnaise and 1 cup of soured cream until smooth.
3. 3. Add 1/4 teaspoon of finely chopped onion and mix well.
4. 4. Stir in the chopped water chestnuts, 2 cups of chopped fresh spinach and 1 cup of diced celery, ensuring all ingredients are evenly distributed.
5. 5. Cover the bowl and chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld.
6. 6. Serve the spread cold with whole-grain crackers, fresh vegetable sticks, or as a sandwich filling.

How to make Creamy Spinach And Water Chestnut Spread

1. Make the creamy base. In a large bowl, mix 1 cup of mayonnaise and 1 cup of sour cream until smooth, then stir in 1/4 teaspoon of finely chopped onion.
2. Add the vegetables. Stir in 2 cups of fresh spinach and 1 cup of diced celery until evenly distributed, then cover and chill for at least 1 hour.
3. Serve the spread. Serve the spread cold with whole-grain crackers or fresh vegetable sticks, or use it as a sandwich filling.

Frequently asked questions

What role do water chestnuts play in this spread, and why aren't they listed in the ingredients?

While the recipe name mentions 'Creamy Spinach and Water Chestnut Spread,' the ingredients do not include water chestnuts. This could be an oversight or a naming convention choice. If you want to incorporate water chestnuts, their crunch would complement the creamy texture and fresh vegetables well—dice them finely and stir in about 1/2 cup.

Can I use fresh spinach instead of chopped frozen spinach?

Yes, you can use fresh spinach as a substitute for frozen chopped spinach. Simply blanch the fresh spinach, squeeze out the excess moisture, and chop it finely before adding 2 cups to the mixture. This will provide a fresher flavor and slightly different texture.

How do I ensure the flavors meld properly during chilling?

To ensure the flavors meld well, make sure all ingredients are evenly mixed and the spread is covered tightly to prevent air exposure. Chilling for at least 1 hour allows the flavors of the onion, celery, and spinach to infuse into the creamy base. For an even better result, consider chilling it overnight.

What’s the best way to serve this spread to highlight its flavors?

This spread pairs well with whole-grain crackers, fresh vegetable sticks like carrot or cucumber, or as a filling for sandwiches and wraps. The creamy and crunchy textures shine when paired with crisp, fresh accompaniments. For a more indulgent option, use it as a dip for toasted pita chips.

Can this spread be frozen for later use?

This spread is not ideal for freezing due to its mayonnaise and sour cream base, which can separate and become watery upon thawing. For best results, prepare and consume it fresh or store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container.