When it comes to Greek cuisine, one dish that stands out is Spanakopita- a savory pastry made with spinach and feta cheese. The dish is flavorful and delicious on its own, but it can reach new heights with the right dip to accompany it. In this article, we explore 14 different dips that pair well with Spanakopita, from classic choices to more unique and exotic ones.
Classic Tzatziki Dip Recipe
Tzatziki is probably the most well-known dip in Greek cuisine. It is made with strained yogurt, cucumber, garlic, and dill, and has a tangy and refreshing taste. Tzatziki is a perfect match for Spanakopita because it balances the rich and savory flavors of the pastry with its light and fresh profile. If you are looking for a classic dip that never fails, go for Tzatziki.
One interesting fact about Tzatziki is that it is not only a delicious dip, but it also has some health benefits. The strained yogurt used in Tzatziki is high in protein and calcium, which are essential for strong bones and muscles. Cucumbers, on the other hand, are low in calories and high in water content, making them a great addition to any diet. Garlic is known for its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, while dill is a good source of antioxidants. So, not only is Tzatziki a tasty dip, but it can also be a healthy addition to your meals.
Creamy Feta Cheese Dip Recipe
Feta cheese is a staple in Greek cuisine, and it is also a key ingredient in Spanakopita. So why not make a dip that celebrates its cheesy goodness? This creamy Feta Cheese Dip is made with crumbled feta, cream cheese, olive oil, and lemon juice. It has a smooth and luscious texture and a tangy and salty flavor that complements the spinach and cheese in Spanakopita perfectly.
One of the great things about this dip is that it is incredibly versatile. It can be served as an appetizer with pita chips or vegetables, or it can be used as a spread on sandwiches or wraps. It also makes a great addition to a mezze platter, alongside other Greek dips like hummus and tzatziki.
To make this dip even more flavorful, you can add some additional ingredients like chopped fresh herbs, roasted garlic, or sun-dried tomatoes. You can also adjust the consistency by adding more or less olive oil or lemon juice, depending on your preference. This dip is sure to be a hit at your next party or gathering!
Homemade Hummus with Spinach
For those who like a dip with a little more texture, this Spinach Hummus is an excellent choice. It combines the creaminess of chickpeas with the freshness of spinach, garlic, and lemon juice, resulting in a dip with a bright green hue and a earthy and zesty profile. The creaminess of hummus works well with the crunchiness of Spanakopita, creating a contrast in textures that is delightful to the palate.
Additionally, this Spinach Hummus is a great source of protein and fiber, making it a healthy snack option. It can be served with pita bread, crackers, or fresh vegetables for a satisfying and nutritious snack. Plus, it’s easy to make at home with just a few simple ingredients and a food processor. Give it a try and impress your guests with this unique and flavorful dip!
Roasted Red Pepper Dip Recipe
Roasted red peppers are a popular ingredient in Mediterranean cuisine, and their sweet and smoky flavor is irresistible. This Roasted Red Pepper Dip combines the peppers with cream cheese, garlic, and paprika, resulting in a dip that is rich, bold, and slightly spicy. The smokiness of the peppers echoes the crispy crust of Spanakopita, while the cream cheese adds a velvety touch to the dish.
This dip is not only delicious, but it is also very easy to make. All you need to do is roast the peppers, blend them with the other ingredients, and voila! You have a tasty dip that is perfect for any occasion. It can be served with pita chips, crackers, or even fresh vegetables for a healthier option.
Roasted red peppers are also a great source of vitamins A and C, as well as antioxidants. They are known to have anti-inflammatory properties and can help boost your immune system. So not only is this dip a crowd-pleaser, but it is also a healthy option for your next party or gathering.
Traditional Greek Skordalia Dip Recipe
Skordalia is a traditional Greek dip that is made with mashed potatoes, garlic, olive oil, and vinegar. It has a creamy and garlicky taste that is perfect for those who like a bold and tangy flavor. The dip has a thick consistency that allows it to stick to Spanakopita, creating a cohesive bite that is bursting with flavor.
Skordalia is a versatile dip that can be served with a variety of dishes. It pairs well with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, and even as a spread on sandwiches. In Greece, it is often served as a side dish with fried salt cod, known as bakaliaros. Skordalia is also a popular dip during Lent, as it is a vegan option that is filling and flavorful.
Tangy Lemon Garlic Dip Recipe
Lemon and garlic are two ingredients that are commonly used in Greek cuisine, and for good reasons. They add brightness and depth to any dish, and they are no exception when it comes to dips. This Tangy Lemon Garlic Dip is made with mayonnaise, lemon juice, garlic, and honey, creating a sauce that is simultaneously tangy, sweet, and sharp. The dip is light and airy, a refreshing contrast to the heaviness of Spanakopita.
One of the great things about this dip is its versatility. It can be used as a dip for vegetables, a spread for sandwiches, or even as a marinade for chicken or fish. The lemon and garlic flavors pair well with a variety of foods, making it a go-to recipe for any occasion.
To make this dip even healthier, you can substitute the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt. This will give the dip a tangy flavor and a creamy texture, while also reducing the calorie count. Additionally, you can add some chopped fresh herbs, such as parsley or dill, to give the dip an extra burst of flavor and color.
Spicy Harissa Yogurt Dip Recipe
Harissa is a North African spice blend that is known for its fragrant and fiery taste. This Spicy Harissa Yogurt Dip incorporates harissa into thick Greek yogurt, resulting in a dip that is bold, tangy, and spicy. The dip has a creamy texture that pairs well with Spanakopita, and the spice level can be toned down or ramped up according to one’s preference.
Aside from being a delicious dip, this recipe is also a healthy option for snacking. Greek yogurt is high in protein and low in fat, making it a great choice for those who are health-conscious. Additionally, harissa is known for its anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
To make this dip even more flavorful, you can add some chopped fresh herbs such as cilantro or parsley. These herbs not only add a burst of freshness to the dip but also provide additional health benefits. Cilantro, for example, is rich in antioxidants and has been shown to aid in digestion.
Easy Spinach and Artichoke Dip Recipe
Spinach and artichoke dip is a classic party food that is loved by many. This Easy Spinach and Artichoke Dip combines the two ingredients with cream cheese, mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, and garlic, resulting in a cheesy and creamy dip that is bursting with flavor. The dip’s richness is a good match for the savory and nutty Spanakopita, creating a harmonious balance of tastes.
Savory Sun-Dried Tomato and Olive Tapenade Recipe
Tapenade is a type of dip that originated in the South of France, but it has made its way to Greek cuisine as well. This Savory Sun-Dried Tomato and Olive Tapenade is made with black olives, sun-dried tomatoes, capers, garlic, and olive oil, creating a dip that is salty, briny, and bold. The tapenade pairs well with Spanakopita because of its umami-rich taste, which complements the pastry’s savory and cheesy profile.
Refreshing Cucumber and Dill Dip Recipe
Cucumber and dill are two ingredients that go hand-in-hand, and they are a refreshing addition to any dip. This Refreshing Cucumber and Dill Dip is made with diced cucumber, Greek yogurt, garlic, and fresh herbs, creating a dip that is light and flavorful. The dip’s coolness and tanginess balance out the richness of Spanakopita, creating a refreshing and satisfying combination.
Cheesy Spinach and Feta Dip Recipe
This Cheesy Spinach and Feta Dip is a spin-off of Spanakopita itself- it combines the pastry’s main ingredients with cream cheese, mayonnaise, and mozzarella cheese. The result is a dip that is creamy, salty, and cheesy, a perfect match for the pastry’s flaky and nutty taste. The dip is easy to make and can be served hot or cold, making it a versatile choice for any occasion.
Smoky Eggplant Baba Ghanoush Dip Recipe
Baba Ghanoush is a dip that is made with roasted eggplant, tahini, garlic, and lemon juice. The dip has a smoky and nutty taste that is irresistible, and it pairs well with Spanakopita because of its earthiness and depth. The dip is a good choice for those who like a dip with a complex and layered flavor profile.
Creamy Avocado Tzatziki Sauce
For those who are looking for a twist on the classic Tzatziki dip, this Creamy Avocado Tzatziki Sauce is a must-try. The sauce combines ripe avocado with Greek yogurt, garlic, and dill, creating a dip that is creamy, velvety, and flavorful. The avocado adds a richness to the dip that complements the savory flavors of Spanakopita, while the dill adds a fresh and aromatic touch.
Bold and Spicy Sriracha Yogurt Sauce
Sriracha sauce is a staple in Asian cuisine, but it can also be used to add a fiery kick to Greek dips. This Bold and Spicy Sriracha Yogurt Sauce combines the sauce with Greek yogurt, garlic, and lemon juice, creating a dip that is tangy, spicy, and aromatic. The sauce’s heat level can be adjusted according to one’s preference, and it pairs well with Spanakopita because of its bold and punchy taste.
Conclusion
With so many dips to choose from, it can be hard to pick just one to go with Spanakopita. Each dip has its unique taste and texture, and each can elevate the pastry to new heights. Try them all and find the one that suits your palate the most, or mix and match to create your own unique flavor combinations. Whatever dip you choose, you can’t go wrong with these delicious and flavorful options.
