Lite and Amazing French Onion Dip
This recipe presents a lightened yet flavorful French onion dip, featuring slowly caramelized sweet onions, garlic, and thyme. These aromatics are folded into a creamy base of nonfat Greek yogurt and softened low-fat cream cheese, creating a healthier, indulgent appetizer perfect for any gathering.
Equipment
- 1 Large Skillet For caramelizing onions
- 1 Cutting Board
- 1 Chef's knife
- 1 Large Mixing Bowl For combining dip ingredients
- 1 Whisk or Spatula For mixing
Ingredients
Main
- 12 Ounces nonfat Greek yogurt
- 1 Teaspoon salt
- 1 Tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2 large sweet onions chopped
- 1 Tablespoon dried thyme
- 3 cloves of garlic minced
- 1 Tablespoon butter
- 1 Teaspoon pepper
- 2 Tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 8 Ounces low-fat cream cheese softened
Instructions
- Prepare the aromatics: Finely chop the two large sweet onions and mince the three cloves of garlic.
- Caramelize onions: In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon butter with 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil over medium-low heat. Add the chopped onions, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1 teaspoon pepper.
- Cook onions slowly: Continue cooking the onions, stirring occasionally, for 20-30 minutes until they are deeply golden brown and very tender, ensuring they do not burn.
- Infuse with garlic and thyme: Stir in the 1 tablespoon dried thyme and minced garlic with the caramelized onions. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to overcook the garlic.
- Cool the onion mixture: Remove the skillet from heat and allow the caramelized onion mixture to cool completely to room temperature. This step is crucial to prevent the dairy from curdling.
- Prepare the creamy base: In a separate large mixing bowl, combine the 8 ounces of softened low-fat cream cheese with the 12 ounces of nonfat Greek yogurt.
- Blend the base: Whisk the cream cheese and yogurt together until the mixture is smooth and well combined, ensuring there are no lumps of cream cheese.
- Add savory depth: Stir in the 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce into the cream cheese and yogurt base, mixing until fully incorporated.
- Combine all components: Gently fold the cooled caramelized onion and garlic mixture into the cream cheese and yogurt base until it is evenly distributed throughout the dip.
- Chill and serve: Cover the dip and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or ideally overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and deepen. Serve cold with your preferred dippers.
Notes
Achieving truly caramelized onions is paramount for this dip's depth; low and slow is key, allowing natural sugars to develop without burning. Don't rush this step—it can take 20-30 minutes. The combination of Greek yogurt and low-fat cream cheese provides a lighter base without sacrificing creaminess. Ensure the cream cheese is truly softened for a smooth, lump-free dip. For an elevated flavor, consider deglazing the pan with a splash of dry sherry or white wine after the onions are browned, then reducing it before adding to the dip. Fresh thyme can be a vibrant substitute for dried. Serve chilled for best texture and flavor.