Recipe File: Hip, Hip Veggie Dip

The daphne in my yard are starting to die off. I love the lemon-scented, January-blooming flowers, but once they have faded, I know that spring is almost here. Have you gone out to check your long-neglected garden bed for signs of life? I wouldn’t be surprised if you find some brave kale, chard or spinach holding steady through the dark and rainy Oregon winter. If your garden is barren, take advantage of the breaks in the spring rain to visit the farmers market or any market for some greens to make this easy-to-make, veggie-packed dip. (You can use just about any leafy green in this recipe.) Have your kids help you wash and tear the greens or shred the carrot. Scoop this up with veggie sticks or potato chips. It is also delicious tossed with hot pasta.

Green Dip

Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil

½ cup shredded carrot (from about 1 medium carrot)

½ cup yellow onion, small dice

2 medium garlic cloves, finely chopped

2-4 cups finely chopped (or torn) spinach, kale or chard (remove the tough stems)

1 cup sour cream

½ cup mayonnaise

1 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more as needed

½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, plus more as needed

Directions

1. Heat a large nonstick pan over medium heat. Add olive oil. When it shimmers, add the onion, carrots and garlic, and cook until soft. Add shredded greens and cook 3-5 minutes or until the greens are bright green and slightly softened.

2. Move greens mixture to a mixing bowl. Stir in sour cream and mayo.

3. Taste and adjust flavor with salt and pepper.