Introduction
Get ready to spice up your holidays with this zesty Cranberry Jalapeño Dip! Perfect for parties or as a festive snack, every scoop is bursting with sweet and spicy flavors that are sure to wow your taste buds. This delightful recipe combines the tartness of fresh cranberries with the heat of jalapeños, creating an irresistible dip that is sure to be a hit at any gathering.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
- 1 package (12 ounces) fresh cranberries
- 1 bunch green onions (green and white parts), finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 small jalapeño, deseeded and finely diced
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour, 45 minutes (including chilling)
- Yield: Serves 8-10
Directions
1. Roughly chop the cranberries and mix them in a medium bowl with green onions, cilantro, jalapeño, sugar, lemon juice, and salt. Stir until the mixture is well combined and the sugar begins to dissolve. Set aside and let the flavors meld for about an hour.
2. Take your softened cream cheese and spread it evenly over a serving platter. Make sure it’s nice and smooth so it’s ready to host its cranberry topping.
3. Once the cranberries have marinated, drain excess liquid to avoid a soggy dip situation.
4. Spread the flavorful cranberry mix over the cream cheese layer.
5. Chill the dip for at least 30 minutes to let all the flavors deepen. Serve with crackers or your favorite dippables, and watch it disappear!
Nutritional Information
Indulge, knowing each tasty serving is packed with sweet-tangy goodness and a hint of spicy kick! This dip is not just a treat for your taste buds, but it also makes for a beautiful centerpiece on your holiday table. Enjoy this festive delight and watch your gatherings become even more memorable!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cranberry Mixture
Roughly chop the cranberries and mix them in a medium bowl with green onions, cilantro, jalapeño, sugar, lemon juice, and salt. Stir until the mixture is well combined and the sugar begins to dissolve. Set aside and let the flavors meld for about an hour.
Step 2: Spread the Cream Cheese
Take your softened cream cheese and spread it evenly over a serving platter. Make sure it’s nice and smooth so it’s ready to host its cranberry topping.
Step 3: Drain Excess Liquid
Once the cranberries have marinated, drain excess liquid to avoid a soggy dip situation.
Step 4: Assemble the Dip
Spread the flavorful cranberry mix over the cream cheese layer.
Step 5: Chill Before Serving
Chill the dip for at least 30 minutes to let all the flavors deepen. Serve with crackers or your favorite dippables, and watch it disappear!
Notes
Serving Suggestions
This dip pairs wonderfully with a variety of dippers such as crackers, tortilla chips, or sliced vegetables.
Storage Tips
Store any leftover dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Customization Options
Feel free to adjust the level of jalapeño to suit your spice preference or substitute cilantro with parsley if desired.
Cook techniques
Mixing Ingredients
To ensure all flavors are well incorporated, mix the chopped cranberries, green onions, cilantro, jalapeño, sugar, lemon juice, and salt in a medium bowl thoroughly. This step allows the sugar to begin dissolving and enhances the overall taste.
Marinating
Allow the cranberry mixture to sit for about an hour. This marinating process lets the flavors meld together and intensify, creating a more dynamic taste in the dip.
Preparing the Cream Cheese Base
Spread the softened cream cheese evenly over your serving platter until smooth. A smooth base ensures that the cranberry mixture can easily be layered on top without sliding off.
Draining Excess Liquid
After the cranberry mixture has marinated, drain any excess liquid. This step prevents the dip from becoming soggy, ensuring the perfect texture for scooping.
Chilling
Chill the completed dip for at least 30 minutes before serving. Chilling allows the flavors to deepen further and enhances the overall taste experience.
FAQ
Can I make this dip ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cranberry mixture a day in advance and refrigerate it. Just layer it over the cream cheese before serving for the best texture.
What can I serve with this dip?
This dip pairs well with a variety of dippers such as crackers, tortilla chips, sliced baguette, or fresh vegetables.
How spicy is the dip?
The heat level can vary based on the jalapeño used. If you prefer less spice, you can reduce the amount or remove the seeds and membranes before chopping.
Can I use frozen cranberries?
While fresh cranberries are recommended for better texture and flavor, you can use frozen cranberries as long as they are thawed and drained properly.
Is there a way to make this dip lighter?
Yes, you can use reduced-fat cream cheese or Greek yogurt as a substitute for cream cheese to cut down on calories while still enjoying the flavors.
Conclusion
