Trader Joe’s Garlic Spread Dip: Recipes, Review, and Culinary Adventures

Trader Joe’s Garlic Spread Dip has become a cult favorite, and for good reason! Its creamy, intensely garlicky flavor elevates everything it touches. This article will delve into a comprehensive review of this delightful dip, followed by a plethora of creative and delicious recipes you can make using it. Get ready to unleash your inner chef and discover the versatility of Trader Joe’s Garlic Spread Dip!

## Trader Joe’s Garlic Spread Dip Review: A Flavor Explosion

Before we dive into the recipes, let’s explore what makes this dip so special. Trader Joe’s Garlic Spread Dip is not your average grocery store dip. It’s a thick, whipped concoction bursting with fresh garlic flavor. Here’s a breakdown of its key characteristics:

* **Texture:** The texture is incredibly smooth and creamy, almost like a whipped cream cheese. It spreads easily and melts beautifully when heated.
* **Flavor:** The dominant flavor is, of course, garlic! It’s not a subtle garlic flavor; it’s bold, pungent, and incredibly satisfying for garlic lovers. There’s also a hint of tanginess, likely from the addition of lemon juice or vinegar, which balances the richness. Some detect subtle hints of other herbs, enhancing the complexity.
* **Ingredients:** While the specific ingredients list may vary slightly, it typically includes: canola oil, garlic, water, egg yolks, lemon juice, salt, and spices. It’s important to check the label for the most up-to-date information, especially if you have allergies or dietary restrictions.
* **Versatility:** This is where the Garlic Spread Dip truly shines. It can be used as a dip, spread, marinade, sauce, or flavor enhancer in countless dishes.
* **Availability & Price:** It’s exclusively available at Trader Joe’s stores. The price is quite reasonable for the quality and quantity you get, making it a budget-friendly way to add a ton of flavor to your meals.

**Pros:**

* Incredibly flavorful and versatile.
* Creamy and smooth texture.
* Affordable price.
* Adds a gourmet touch to simple dishes.

**Cons:**

* Very strong garlic flavor – not for the faint of heart!
* Exclusively available at Trader Joe’s.
* High in calories and fat (use in moderation).

**Overall Rating:** 4.5/5 stars. Highly recommended for garlic enthusiasts! It’s a staple in many kitchens, and for good reason. Just be prepared for the intense garlic aroma (which is a positive for many!).

## Recipe Ideas Using Trader Joe’s Garlic Spread Dip

Now for the fun part: exploring the endless culinary possibilities! These recipes range from simple appetizers to more elaborate main courses, all showcasing the magic of Trader Joe’s Garlic Spread Dip.

### 1. Garlic Bread Elevated

This is the most obvious and perhaps the most satisfying use for the dip. Forget butter and garlic powder; this is next-level garlic bread.

**Ingredients:**

* 1 loaf of your favorite bread (baguette, sourdough, Italian, etc.)
* Trader Joe’s Garlic Spread Dip
* Optional: Grated Parmesan cheese, chopped fresh parsley

**Instructions:**

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Slice the bread in half lengthwise.
3. Generously spread the Trader Joe’s Garlic Spread Dip over both cut sides of the bread.
4. If desired, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley.
5. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and the garlic spread is bubbly.
6. Let cool slightly before slicing and serving.

**Tips & Variations:**

* For a crispier crust, broil the bread for the last minute or two, but watch carefully to prevent burning.
* Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
* Use different types of cheese, such as mozzarella, provolone, or Asiago.
* Spread the garlic dip on individual slices of bread for easy serving.

### 2. Garlic Shrimp Scampi

This classic Italian dish gets a flavor boost from the Garlic Spread Dip. It simplifies the process while delivering an intensely flavorful result.

**Ingredients:**

* 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* 4 cloves garlic, minced (optional, for extra garlicky flavor)
* 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional)
* 1/4 cup Trader Joe’s Garlic Spread Dip
* 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
* Salt and pepper to taste
* Cooked pasta (linguine, spaghetti, or your favorite)

**Instructions:**

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. If using minced garlic, sauté it for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
4. If using white wine, deglaze the pan by pouring it in and scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
5. Stir in the Trader Joe’s Garlic Spread Dip and parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Cook for another minute or two, until the sauce is heated through and slightly thickened.
7. Serve the shrimp scampi over cooked pasta. Garnish with extra parsley if desired.

**Tips & Variations:**

* Add a squeeze of lemon juice for extra brightness.
* Include other vegetables, such as cherry tomatoes, asparagus, or zucchini.
* Use different types of seafood, such as scallops or mussels.
* Serve with crusty bread for dipping into the sauce.

### 3. Garlic Roasted Vegetables

The Garlic Spread Dip transforms roasted vegetables into a flavorful and addictive side dish.

**Ingredients:**

* 1 pound assorted vegetables (broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, carrots, potatoes, etc.), cut into bite-sized pieces
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* 2 tablespoons Trader Joe’s Garlic Spread Dip
* Salt and pepper to taste
* Optional: Red pepper flakes, Parmesan cheese

**Instructions:**

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss the vegetables with olive oil, Trader Joe’s Garlic Spread Dip, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Make sure the vegetables are evenly coated.
3. Spread the vegetables in a single layer on a baking sheet.
4. Roast for 20-30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and slightly browned, flipping halfway through.
5. If desired, sprinkle with red pepper flakes or Parmesan cheese before serving.

**Tips & Variations:**

* Use different combinations of vegetables depending on your preference and what’s in season.
* Add balsamic vinegar for a touch of sweetness and acidity.
* Roast the vegetables on a higher heat (425°F or 220°C) for a crispier texture.

### 4. Garlic Chicken Marinade

The Garlic Spread Dip makes an excellent marinade for chicken, infusing it with intense garlic flavor and keeping it moist and tender.

**Ingredients:**

* 1-2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
* 1/4 cup Trader Joe’s Garlic Spread Dip
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* 1 tablespoon lemon juice or vinegar
* 1 teaspoon paprika (optional)
* Salt and pepper to taste

**Instructions:**

1. In a bowl, whisk together the Trader Joe’s Garlic Spread Dip, olive oil, lemon juice or vinegar, paprika (if using), salt, and pepper.
2. Place the chicken in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish.
3. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring it’s evenly coated.
4. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours.
5. Preheat your grill, oven, or skillet to medium heat.
6. Cook the chicken until it’s cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

**Tips & Variations:**

* Add other herbs and spices to the marinade, such as rosemary, thyme, or oregano.
* Use the marinade for other types of meat, such as pork or lamb.
* Grill, bake, or pan-fry the chicken depending on your preference.

### 5. Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Transform ordinary mashed potatoes into a decadent and flavorful side dish with the addition of Garlic Spread Dip.

**Ingredients:**

* 2 pounds potatoes, peeled and quartered
* 1/2 cup milk or cream
* 4 tablespoons butter
* 1/4 cup Trader Joe’s Garlic Spread Dip
* Salt and pepper to taste
* Optional: Chopped chives or green onions

**Instructions:**

1. Place the potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water. Bring to a boil and cook until tender, about 15-20 minutes.
2. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot.
3. Mash the potatoes with a potato masher or an electric mixer.
4. Gradually add the milk or cream, butter, and Trader Joe’s Garlic Spread Dip, mixing until smooth and creamy.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped chives or green onions if desired.

**Tips & Variations:**

* Use different types of potatoes, such as Yukon Gold or red potatoes.
* Add roasted garlic for an even more intense garlic flavor.
* Substitute sour cream or Greek yogurt for some of the milk or cream.

### 6. Garlic Pizza Sauce

Skip the store-bought pizza sauce and create your own flavorful version using Trader Joe’s Garlic Spread Dip as a base.

**Ingredients:**

* 1/2 cup Trader Joe’s Garlic Spread Dip
* 1/4 cup tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1 teaspoon dried oregano
* 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
* Salt and pepper to taste

**Instructions:**

1. In a bowl, combine the Trader Joe’s Garlic Spread Dip, tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes, olive oil, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
2. Mix well until all ingredients are combined.
3. Spread the garlic pizza sauce evenly over your pizza dough.
4. Top with your favorite pizza toppings and bake according to your pizza dough instructions.

**Tips & Variations:**

* Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
* Use fresh herbs instead of dried herbs for a more vibrant flavor.
* Adjust the amount of tomato sauce to your liking.

### 7. Garlic Dip for Crudités and Chips

Of course, you can enjoy the Garlic Spread Dip simply as a dip for vegetables, chips, crackers, or breadsticks. It’s a crowd-pleasing appetizer that’s easy to prepare.

**Ingredients:**

* Trader Joe’s Garlic Spread Dip
* Assorted vegetables (carrots, celery, cucumbers, bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, etc.)
* Chips, crackers, or breadsticks

**Instructions:**

1. Arrange the vegetables, chips, crackers, and breadsticks on a platter.
2. Place the Trader Joe’s Garlic Spread Dip in a bowl in the center of the platter.
3. Serve and enjoy!

**Tips & Variations:**

* Add other dips and spreads to the platter, such as hummus, guacamole, or salsa.
* Garnish the dip with chopped fresh herbs or a drizzle of olive oil.
* Serve with a variety of chips, crackers, and breadsticks to cater to different tastes.

### 8. Garlic Aioli

Turn the Garlic Spread Dip into a quick and easy aioli by adding a few simple ingredients. Aioli is a versatile sauce that can be used as a dip, spread, or condiment.

**Ingredients:**

* 1/2 cup Trader Joe’s Garlic Spread Dip
* 1 tablespoon mayonnaise (optional, for extra creaminess)
* 1 tablespoon lemon juice
* Salt and pepper to taste

**Instructions:**

1. In a bowl, combine the Trader Joe’s Garlic Spread Dip, mayonnaise (if using), lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
2. Mix well until all ingredients are combined and smooth.
3. Serve as a dip for fries, vegetables, or seafood, or as a spread for sandwiches and burgers.

**Tips & Variations:**

* Add a pinch of smoked paprika for a smoky flavor.

* Add a squeeze of lime juice instead of lemon juice for a different flavor profile.
* Add chopped fresh herbs, such as parsley, chives, or dill.

### 9. Garlic Butter Sauce for Pasta

A simple yet satisfying pasta sauce made with Garlic Spread Dip and butter. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal.

**Ingredients:**

* 1/2 pound pasta (spaghetti, linguine, fettuccine, etc.)
* 4 tablespoons butter
* 1/4 cup Trader Joe’s Garlic Spread Dip
* 1/4 cup pasta water (reserved from cooking the pasta)
* Salt and pepper to taste
* Optional: Grated Parmesan cheese, chopped fresh parsley

**Instructions:**

1. Cook the pasta according to package directions. Reserve about 1/4 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. While the pasta is cooking, melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
3. Stir in the Trader Joe’s Garlic Spread Dip and cook for about a minute, until fragrant.
4. Add the reserved pasta water to the skillet and whisk to create a smooth sauce.
5. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat with the sauce.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley if desired.

**Tips & Variations:**

* Add red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
* Include other vegetables, such as spinach, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes.
* Top with grilled chicken or shrimp for a more substantial meal.

### 10. Garlic Cheese Toasties

A quick and easy snack or light meal that’s perfect for using up leftover bread.

**Ingredients:**

* Sliced bread
* Trader Joe’s Garlic Spread Dip
* Shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, provolone, etc.)

**Instructions:**

1. Preheat the broiler.
2. Spread Trader Joe’s Garlic Spread Dip on one side of each slice of bread.
3. Top with shredded cheese.
4. Broil until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the bread is toasted, watching carefully to prevent burning.
5. Serve immediately.

**Tips & Variations:**

* Add sliced tomatoes or onions before broiling.
* Use different types of bread, such as sourdough or baguette.
* Sprinkle with Italian seasoning for extra flavor.

### 11. Garlic and Herb Stuffed Mushrooms

Impress your guests with these flavorful stuffed mushrooms, featuring the irresistible taste of Trader Joe’s Garlic Spread Dip.

**Ingredients:**

* 1 pound large mushroom caps, stems removed
* 1/4 cup Trader Joe’s Garlic Spread Dip
* 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
* 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
* 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* Salt and pepper to taste

**Instructions:**

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, combine Trader Joe’s Garlic Spread Dip, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Stuff each mushroom cap with the mixture.
4. Place stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the mushrooms are tender and the stuffing is golden brown.
6. Serve warm.

**Tips & Variations:**

* Add cooked sausage or bacon to the stuffing.
* Use different types of cheese, such as Gruyere or Fontina.
* Drizzle with balsamic glaze before serving.

### 12. Garlic Dip for Grilled Meats

Elevate your grilled steaks, chicken, or pork with a dollop of this flavorful garlic dip. It’s a simple way to add a burst of flavor to your favorite grilled dishes.

**Ingredients:**

* Trader Joe’s Garlic Spread Dip
* Grilled meat of your choice

**Instructions:**

1. Grill your meat to your desired doneness.
2. Serve with a dollop of Trader Joe’s Garlic Spread Dip on top.

**Tips & Variations:**

* Add a squeeze of lemon juice to the dip for extra brightness.
* Mix the dip with a little bit of olive oil for a smoother consistency.
* Garnish with chopped fresh herbs.

### 13. Garlic Flavored Deviled Eggs

A twist on a classic appetizer, these deviled eggs get a flavorful boost from Trader Joe’s Garlic Spread Dip.

**Ingredients:**

* 6 hard-boiled eggs
* 1/4 cup Trader Joe’s Garlic Spread Dip
* 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
* 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
* Salt and pepper to taste
* Paprika for garnish

**Instructions:**

1. Cut the hard-boiled eggs in half lengthwise and remove the yolks.
2. In a bowl, mash the egg yolks with Trader Joe’s Garlic Spread Dip, mayonnaise, and Dijon mustard.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Spoon or pipe the yolk mixture back into the egg whites.
5. Garnish with paprika.
6. Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving.

**Tips & Variations:**

* Add a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
* Garnish with chopped chives or bacon bits.
* Use a piping bag for a more professional presentation.

## Conclusion: Unleash Your Culinary Creativity with Trader Joe’s Garlic Spread Dip

Trader Joe’s Garlic Spread Dip is more than just a dip; it’s a versatile ingredient that can elevate countless dishes. From simple appetizers to flavorful main courses, the possibilities are endless. We hope these recipes have inspired you to experiment and discover your own favorite ways to use this delicious and addictive spread. So, grab a tub (or two!) and get cooking! Your taste buds will thank you.