Swap Spinach For This Canned Vegetable To Make A Classic Dip With A Southern Twist

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Hey spinach, you've had a good run, but if you ask us, there's another leafy green worth inviting to the dip party: collard greens. This vegetable is a true staple of Southern cooking, usually served after being simmered until tender with garlic, spices, and a splash of acidity to cut through its bitterness, but you can also buy it canned for even more convenience. You'll usually find collard greens on the table served alongside cornbread, black-eyed peas, fried catfish, mac and cheese, barbecue, and other Southern comfort foods. But by stirring them into a creamy and cheesy dip, you can give this festive favorite a Southern-inspired spin.

Because canned collard greens are already cooked and tender, you've saved yourself a lot of prep time off the bat — all you need to do is drain them, squeeze out the excess liquid, and roughly chop them up. (Just be mindful that too much liquid is the enemy here: Canned collards can leave your dip runny if you tip them straight from the can into the bowl.) From there, they're ready to stand in for spinach in your usual dip alongside tasty ingredients like cream cheese, mozzarella, cheddar cheese, and garlic. 

If spinach-artichoke dip is your usual party order, then collard greens can still join the party; the artichokes bring a gentle tang that balances the earthy greens and rich dairy. You can also lean even further into the dish's decadence by subbing collard greens into a five-cheese spinach and artichoke dip for maximum gooeyness. You might also consider using a Southern mayo brand like cult-favorite Duke's Real Mayonnaise for a regionally appropriate upgrade.

Once you're in the swing of things, you can take the Southern theme even further. Add in some cayenne pepper, hot sauce, or even a sprinkle of smoked paprika for a little hint of barbecue flavor. And instead of serving it with baguette slices or tortilla chips, try spreading some on cornbread or serving it with hush puppies, buttered saltine crackers, or strips of fried okra for dunking. With canned collard greens on hand, a party-ready dip is always within reach.