Description
This Creamy Giardiniera Dip is a flavorful and easy-to-make appetizer perfect for parties and gatherings. Combining the tangy crunch of giardiniera with creamy cheese and a hint of spice, it serves wonderfully with crackers, chips, or fresh vegetables. The dip can be served immediately or chilled to meld the flavors, and there’s an optional baked variation for a warm, bubbly treat.
Ingredients
Scale
Dip Ingredients
- 1 cup hot or mild giardiniera (drained and finely chopped)
- 8 ounces cream cheese (softened)
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Chopped fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the base: In a medium bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise until you achieve a smooth and creamy consistency, ensuring no lumps remain.
- Add seasonings and giardiniera: Stir in the finely chopped giardiniera, shredded sharp cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly to combine all the flavors evenly.
- Serve or chill: Transfer the dip to a serving bowl. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired. You can serve it immediately with crackers, chips, crostini, or raw vegetables.
- Optional chilling: For enhanced flavor, refrigerate the dip for 1 hour to let the flavors meld and the dip to chill.
- Optional warming: To serve warm, place the dip in an oven-safe dish and heat at 350°F (175°C) for 15–20 minutes or until bubbly and heated through.
Notes
- Use hot giardiniera for a spicy flavor or mild giardiniera for a more balanced taste.
- The dip is delicious served cold or warm; warming it enhances the creamy texture and releases aroma.
- Pairs well with a variety of dippers like crispy crackers, tortilla chips, crostini, or fresh veggie sticks.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
