Dandelions and Daydreams

This spinach dip is a family favorite. I love to take it to potluck dinners, and it is always a big hit! I think my favorite part is that it only takes about 11 minutes to cook!

Hot Artichoke Spinach Dip

1 c.(8 oz) quartered artichoke hearts (canned or frozen)
1/2 c. frozen chopped spinach
8 oz. cream cheese
1/2 c. grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 t. crushed red pepper flakes
1/4 t. salt
1/8 t. garlic powder

Boil spinach and artichoke hearts in 1 c. water for 10 minutes or until tender. Drain in colander. While the spinach and artichokes are boiling, heat cream cheese in microwave until creamy (approximately 1 minute on high). Strain spinach and artichokes.  Add spinach and artichokes to cream cheese and stir well. Mash the veggies to break up large chunks. Add remaining ingredients and stir.

Serve with crackers, chips, or toasted bread.

I like to serve with French bread and have found that 1 loaf of French bread (the kind you buy fresh at the store) is just about the right amount of bread to finish the dip (2 loaves if you double the recipe, etc).

If you like your food spicy, make this dip the night before. The pepper flavor spreads throughout the dip better.