Broccoli-Cheddar Dip



4 cups broccoli florets (10 ounces), cut into 1 1/2-inch pieces
3 scallions (white and green parts), trimmed and cut into 1/2-inch pieces (about 3/4 cup)
1 small garlic clove
10 ounces sharp Cheddar cheese, room temperature, cut into 3/4-inch cubes (about 2 cups)
4 ounces cream cheese, room temperature
1 cup plain whole or lowfat yogurt
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
4 ounces bread sticks or pretzels, for serving

1. In large saucepan of boiling water, cook broccoli 1 minute. Immediately drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking. Pat dry. Transfer half of broccoli to covered container and refrigerate until ready to serve. Transfer other half to food processor and add scallions and garlic. Pulse until finely chopped, about 10 (1-second) pulses. Transfer mixture to medium bowl.
2. In same processor, combine Cheddar and cream cheese and process until smooth, about 3 minutes. Return broccoli mixture to processor, add yogurt and pepper, and pulse until blended, about 15 (1-second) pulses. Transfer to large covered container and refrigerate until ready to serve. Serve dip with reserved broccoli florets and bread sticks or pretzels.

*This thick, cheesy dip is delicious with broccoli spears or bread sticks, or even as a spread on slices of bread. Serve any leftovers on baked potatoes or tossed with potato salad.

Makes 3 1/2 cups.

Epicurious, June 2007