What are some of the best dips and appetizers to include in a party?
There are so many options when it comes to serving appetizers and dips at a party. You could go the traditional route and serve cheese and crackers, veggies and dip, or even chips and salsa. You could also switch things up with a unique dip like guacamole or Baba Ganoush.
Recipes for Healthy Appetizers and Dips
1. Southwest Black Bean Dip: This dip is a wonderful way to sneak some veggies into your kid's diet by turning it into a dip. Simply add black beans, corn, cumin, and salsa to create this delicious snack.
2. Baba Ghanoush: A twist on the classic eggplant dip, this Middle Eastern recipe is made with roasted eggplants, tahini sauce, lemon juice, garlic and salt.
3. Roasted Veggie Hummus: This hummus is made with healthy vegetables like zucchini and cauliflower in addition to chickpeas for a hearty appetizer that everyone can enjoy.
4. Guacamole: The perfect melding of avocado and tomato with just the right touch of spices like onion powder and cilantro will have you asking for more!
5. Bruschetta: Bruschetta is an Italian appetizer consisting of grilled bread slices topped with savory ingredients such as tomatoes or garlic cloves cooked in olive oil or butter that can be served either hot or cold. It's one of our favorite recipes for easy appetizers!
6. Classic Cheese & Crackers: This classic is great for those who want something simple but satisfying when entertaining guests at home. Try adding cocktail weenies or sliced ham to make it even better!
Baba Ghanoush Dip Recipe
Baba ghanoush is a Middle Eastern dip made with eggplant, tahini, and lemon juice. It's traditionally eaten as an appetizer or condiment with pita bread.
This recipe is simple to make and can be served cold or warm.
Ingredients:
- 2 medium-sized eggplants, trimmed and cut in half lengthwise
- 3 tablespoons tahini (ground sesame seed paste)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, finely minced
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground cumin
- 3 tablespoons water
Instructions: 1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. Place eggplant halves on parchment paper or aluminum foil on a baking sheet. Prick skin of the eggplants with a fork several times to release steam while cooking. Bake for 30 to 40 minutes, until very soft when pierced with a knife. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before peeling off skin. Place peeled eggplant flesh in a food processor fitted with the steel blade and process for about 5 minutes, until smooth but not pasty. Add the tahini, lemon juice, garlic, salt, cumin, water and blend for another minute or so until completely mixed together and slightly creamy looking. Taste for seasoning adding more salt if desired and adjusting lemon juice or water if needed depending on how thick you want it to be.*Adding 1 tablespoon at
Guacamole Recipe
Guacamole, a Mexican classic, is one of the most popular dips in the world. This dip is made of ripe avocado mashed with onion and jalapeno, lime juice, salt, and cilantro. You can serve guacamole with tortilla chips or on top of grilled steak or chicken.
Hummus Recipe
Hummus is a great dip for any occasion. It's healthy, and goes well with a variety of different appetizers.
2 (15 oz.) cans chickpeas
juice of 1 lemon
2 garlic cloves
1/4 cup tahini
1/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil
salt and pepper
Roasted Red Pepper Dip Recipe
ROASTED RED PEPPER DIP RECIPE
Ingredients:
-I cup roasted red peppers
-1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
-1/2 a small onion, diced
-3 cloves of garlic, minced
-Juice of half a lemon
-2 tablespoons olive oil
-Salt and pepper to taste
Directions: In a food processor or blender combine peppers, onions, garlic and cilantro. Pulse until finely chopped or mix until well combined. Stir in the lemon juice and olive oil. Add salt and pepper to taste. Serve with vegetables or chips!