Sicilian Spinach and Ricotta Dip

Ingredients

While the original Kiwi Dip from New Zealand features a combination of cream cheese, onion soup mix, and reduced cream, this Sicilian adaptation replaces those ingredients with fresh spinach, ricotta cheese, and Mediterranean herbs. The flavors are influenced by the vibrant Sicilian cuisine, incorporating ingredients commonly found in the region such as lemon, garlic, and olive oil. We alse have the original recipe for Original Kiwi Dip, so you can check it out.

• 250g (9 oz) fresh spinach leaves 250g (9 oz) fresh spinach leaves
• 250g (9 oz) ricotta cheese 250g (9 oz) ricotta cheese
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried chili flakes (optional) 1/2 teaspoon dried chili flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 150 kcal / 628 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 11g, 5g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 6g, 2g
• Protein: 8g
• Fiber: 3g
• Salt: 0.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Blanch the spinach leaves in boiling water for 1 minute, then drain and squeeze out any excess water. Chop the spinach finely.
2. 2.
   In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped spinach, ricotta cheese, minced garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, dried oregano, and chili flakes (if using). Mix well to combine.
3. 3.
   Season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning according to your preference.
4. 4.
   Transfer the dip to a serving bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together.
5. 5.
   Serve the Sicilian Spinach and Ricotta Dip with crusty bread, crackers, or fresh vegetables.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Spinach — Make sure to thoroughly squeeze out any excess water from the blanched spinach to prevent the dip from becoming watery.
• Ricotta cheese — Opt for a high-quality ricotta cheese for a creamy and smooth texture.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra kick of flavor, add a pinch of dried chili flakes to the dip.
• Serve the dip with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil on top for added richness.
• If you prefer a smoother texture, blend the dip in a food processor until desired consistency is reached.
• Experiment with different herbs such as basil or parsley to customize the flavors to your liking.
• Make a double batch of the dip and use it as a filling for stuffed pasta shells or as a topping for grilled chicken or fish.

Serving advice

Serve the Sicilian Spinach and Ricotta Dip in a shallow bowl or platter, garnished with a sprinkle of dried oregano and a lemon wedge for an extra touch of freshness. Accompany it with warm slices of crusty bread or a variety of colorful fresh vegetables for dipping.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation, consider serving the dip in a hollowed-out bread bowl, surrounded by an assortment of colorful vegetable sticks and crackers. This will create an inviting centerpiece for your table.