As a party host, I love to prepare dips that can be made ahead of time. They save me from last-minute stress and always impress my guests. Here are my top five make-ahead dips that are perfect for any gathering!
Classic Hummus
Prep & Cook Time
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 0 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1/4 cup tahini
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt to taste
- Water as needed
Instructions
- In a food processor, combine chickpeas, tahini, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and salt.
- Blend until smooth, adding water a tablespoon at a time until desired consistency is reached.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Transfer to a serving bowl and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving.
Servings
This recipe serves about 4-6 people.
Nutrition Info
Approximately 150 calories per serving.
Guacamole
Prep & Cook Time
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 0 minutes
Ingredients
- 2 ripe avocados
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 tomato, diced
- 1 lime, juiced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped cilantro (optional)
Instructions
- In a bowl, mash the avocados with a fork.
- Add the onion, tomato, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Mix until combined.
- Stir in cilantro if using.
- Cover tightly and refrigerate until ready to serve.
Servings
This recipe serves about 4 people.
Nutrition Info
Approximately 180 calories per serving.
Spinach and Artichoke Dip
Prep & Cook Time
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 package (10 oz) frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
- 1 can (14 oz) artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine the spinach, artichokes, cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, mozzarella, Parmesan, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Spread the mixture into a baking dish and bake for 25 minutes or until bubbly.
- Let it cool slightly before serving.
Servings
This recipe serves about 6-8 people.
Nutrition Info
Approximately 250 calories per serving.
Roasted Red Pepper Dip
Prep & Cook Time
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 0 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 jar (12 oz) roasted red peppers, drained
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a food processor, combine roasted red peppers, cream cheese, Greek yogurt, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Blend until smooth.
- Transfer to a serving bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Servings
This recipe serves about 4-6 people.
Nutrition Info
Approximately 120 calories per serving.
Black Bean Salsa
Prep & Cook Time
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 0 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn (fresh or canned)
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 red onion, diced
- 1 jalapeño, minced (optional)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Juice of 2 limes
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine black beans, corn, bell pepper, onion, jalapeño, and cilantro.
- Drizzle with lime juice and season with salt and pepper.
- Mix well and let sit for 15 minutes before serving.
Servings
This recipe serves about 6 people.
Nutrition Info
Approximately 100 calories per serving.
Final Thoughts
These five dips are not only easy to prepare but also deliciously crowd-pleasing. I love making them ahead of time, allowing me to enjoy my parties without fussing in the kitchen. Which one will you try first?