Afghan Spinach Appetizer Dip

Discover the vibrant flavors of the Afghan Spinach Appetizer Dip, a creamy, nutrient-packed blend that’s perfect for your next gathering. This irresistibly savory dip combines tender, sautéed spinach with aromatic spices like coriander and cumin, balanced by the cooling creaminess of plain yogurt and a zesty splash of lemon juice. Enhanced with fresh cilantro and an optional hint of chili flakes for a customizable kick, this dip boasts authentic Afghan-inspired flavors that are both comforting and exotic. Quick and easy to prepare in just 30 minutes, it pairs beautifully with warm naan, pita bread, or crisp veggies. Whether served warm or chilled, this healthy dip is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Nutriscore Rating: 73/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:15 mins

Total Time:30 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 500 grams fresh spinach
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium yellow onion
• 3 large garlic cloves
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 0.5 teaspoon cumin powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
• 200 grams plain yogurt
• 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 0.5 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)

Directions

Step 1

Rinse the fresh spinach thoroughly under cold water, then roughly chop it and set aside.

Step 2

Peel and finely chop the onion and garlic cloves.

Step 3

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened and translucent.

Step 4

Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant, stirring continuously to prevent burning.

Step 5

Stir in the ground coriander, cumin powder, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 30 seconds to toast the spices.

Step 6

Add the chopped spinach to the skillet in batches, allowing it to wilt down before adding more. Stir the mixture frequently and continue cooking until all the spinach is wilted, about 5 minutes.

Step 7

Once the spinach is tender and the liquid has mostly evaporated, remove the skillet from heat and let it cool for 5 minutes.

Step 8

In a large mixing bowl, combine the yogurt, lemon juice, and finely chopped fresh cilantro. If you like a bit of heat, stir in chili flakes.

Step 9

Transfer the cooked spinach mixture to the yogurt mixture and stir until well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt or lemon juice if desired.

Step 10

Serve the dip warm or chilled with fresh naan, pita bread, or an assortment of vegetables for dipping.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	889.4 grams (889.4g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	593

Total Fat 32.20g	41%
Saturated Fat 6.60g	33%
Polyunsaturated Fat 2.70g
Cholesterol 12mg	4%
Sodium 2895mg	126%
Total Carbohydrate 52.60g	19%
Dietary Fiber 16.70g	60%
Total Sugars 19.80g
Protein 25.60g	51%

Vitamin D 96IU	480%
Calcium 925mg	71%
Iron 19mg	103%
Potassium 840mg	18%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 48.1%

Protein: 17.0%

Carbs: 34.9%