Spinach and Artichoke Melts
Try this Spinach and Artichoke Melts recipe, or contribute your own.
Try this Spinach and Artichoke Melts recipe, or contribute your own.
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 clove garlic minced or grated
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 1 tablespoon flour
- 1 ounce cream cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- butter for spreading
- 1/2 cup greek yogurt (i used 0%)
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup milk (i used 2% but whatever you have will be fine)
- 1/2 cup (about 5 ounces) frozen chopped spinach thawed
- 1 (6.7 ounce) jar grilled artichoke hearts or you can sub marinated chopped
- 1 chicken breast grilled and sliced thin (optional)
- 8 slices thick sourdough or tuscan bread
- Carbohydrate 3.48000807088926 g
- Cholesterol 29.7752334535958 mg
- Fat 9.3369528445928 g
- Fiber 0.0946435113319984 g
- Protein 6.25098840061383 g
- Saturated Fat 5.67824386463435 g
- Serving Size 1 1 Serving (35g)
- Sodium 224.494354670149 mg
- Sugar 3.38536455955726 g
- Trans Fat 0.778763705887189 g
- Calories 122 calories
Step-by-step
- Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for a couple of minutes.
- Whisk in flour until it makes a paste. Cook over medium-low heat for a minute or two, then pour in milk. Stir and cook one minute, if your paste gets too thick splash in more milk.
- Add cream cheese, mozzarella, parmesan and pepper. Stir until cheeses are melted. Stir in the greek yogurt until smooth.
- Chop artichokes and spinach and add to the sauce. Stir to combine. Dip will be thick, just use some muscle and stir in those veggies!
- Heat a skillet (or griddle, etc) oven medium-low heat. Butter the outsides of every bread slice, then spread a good amount (any where from 1-3 tablespoons) of the spinach and artichoke dip on the inside (the non-buttered side) of each slice.
- If using, top one slice with the sliced grilled chicken. Top off with another slice of bread, buttered-side up.
- Cook until each side is golden and crisp and cheese is melted, then gently flip and do the same.
- Slice and serve.
Spinach and Artichoke Melts: A Simple Weeknight Delight
As a busy working mom, finding time to cook a delicious and satisfying meal can often feel like a Herculean task. My days are a whirlwind of meetings, school runs, and endless to-do lists. The last thing I want is to spend hours in the kitchen after a long day. That's why I'm always on the lookout for quick, easy recipes that don't compromise on flavor. And these Spinach and Artichoke Melts? They're a total game-changer.
These melts are the perfect example of simple elegance. The creamy, cheesy filling is bursting with the fresh, slightly tangy flavors of spinach and artichoke hearts. The warm, buttery bread provides the perfect counterpoint to the rich filling, creating a truly comforting and satisfying experience. They're incredibly versatile, too. I often add a layer of grilled chicken for extra protein, turning them into a complete meal. Sometimes, I'll even swap out the sourdough for some crusty ciabatta, just to change things up a bit.
What makes this recipe so appealing is its flexibility. You can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your taste and what you have on hand. Don't have Greek yogurt? Use sour cream or even a dollop of mayonnaise. Want a spicier kick? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes. The possibilities are truly endless. The best part? These melts are ready in under 30 minutes, which means more time to spend with my family, and less time stressed out in the kitchen. It's the perfect balance of deliciousness and convenience, making it a regular staple in our weeknight dinner rotation.
Beyond the Recipe:
This recipe isn't just about the food itself; it's about the feeling of satisfaction that comes from creating something delicious and comforting for yourself and your loved ones. In the midst of a busy life, taking a moment to prepare a simple meal, to savor the aromas, and to share a plate of warm, cheesy melts with those you cherish is a small act of self-care and connection. It's a reminder to slow down, appreciate the little things, and relish the simple pleasures life offers.
So, the next time you're looking for a quick, easy, and satisfying meal, don't hesitate to give these Spinach and Artichoke Melts a try. You'll be amazed at how much flavor you can pack into such a simple dish. And trust me, your family will thank you for it. It's more than just a recipe; it's a little slice of happiness on a busy weeknight.
Tips and Variations:
- Bread Choice: Experiment with different types of bread! Sourdough, Tuscan, ciabatta, or even your favorite artisan loaf will all work beautifully.
- Add-ins: Feel free to add other ingredients to customize your melts. Sun-dried tomatoes, roasted red peppers, or caramelized onions would all be delicious additions.
- Make it a Meal: Serve your melts with a side salad or soup for a complete and balanced meal.
- Prep Ahead: The spinach artichoke dip can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until you're ready to assemble the melts.
Enjoy!
