Indulge in the creamy, flavorful magic of "The Very Versatile Garlic Dip or Spread," a must-have recipe that transforms simple ingredients into a showstopping appetizer or condiment. Featuring the rich, caramelized essence of oven-roasted garlic, blended seamlessly with creamy cream cheese, tangy sour cream, and a hint of fresh lemon juice, this dip is the perfect pairing for crackers, veggies, or even as a spread for sandwiches and wraps. Ready in under an hour and customizable with a sprinkle of fresh parsley, this versatile garlic dip is both easy to prepare and irresistibly delicious. Whether you're hosting a gathering or looking to elevate your everyday snacks, this crowd-pleaser promises to become a staple in your kitchen. Perfect for garlic lovers and designed to impress, this recipe is your go-to for flavor-packed versatility.
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Slice the tops off both garlic bulbs to expose the cloves. Place each bulb on a sheet of aluminum foil, drizzle with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, and wrap them tightly.
Roast the garlic bulbs in the oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the cloves are soft and caramelized. Allow them to cool for 10 minutes.
In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, sour cream, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Mix until smooth and creamy.
Squeeze the roasted garlic cloves out of their skins and add them to the cream cheese mixture. Mix thoroughly, ensuring the garlic is well incorporated.
Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Add more salt, pepper, or lemon juice if desired.
Transfer the dip to a serving bowl. Garnish with chopped parsley, if using.
Serve immediately with crackers, bread, vegetables, or as a spread for sandwiches. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Calories |
1644 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 152.1 g | 195% | |
| Saturated Fat | 80.8 g | 404% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 6.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 344 mg | 115% | |
| Sodium | 2081 mg | 90% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 62.6 g | 23% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 3.6 g | 13% | |
| Total Sugars | 24.3 g | ||
| Protein | 28.4 g | 57% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 698 mg | 54% | |
| Iron | 4.0 mg | 22% | |
| Potassium | 724 mg | 15% | |
*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.