Dipping sauces are most often associated with kids (think chicken nuggets and honey mustard), but I must admit, even at the ripe age of 43, I’ve never met a dip I didn’t like! They’re a fun, interactive way to change up the same old dinnertime routines too, and they don’t have to be decadent and fattening to be good.
That said, there's nothing wrong with splurging now and then too! So here are eight delicious dips of the healthy
and self-indulgent varieties.
Similar to guacamole, but a lot creamier, this dip can be used with tortilla chips or pita bread, but also as a salad dressing, a taco topper, or just a delicious sauce to dunk your grilled steak or chicken into.
This delicious and easy sauce has only six ingredients and can be made up to three days ahead. Use it for lettuce wraps, chicken satay, or just as a drizzle over any Asian-inspired pork or chicken recipe.
I love all garlic and herb cheese, but when I buy them at the store, I'm paying at least $7 for a small container! This recipe tastes even better than store-bought since you can season it exactly the way you like it. It tastes great on crackers, toast, sandwiches or just by the spoonful!
Who knew you could make a healthier (non-processed) cheese dip with just three ingredients? Cornstarch, shredded cheddar and evaporated milk are all you need to make this delicious dip. Spice it up with salsa or hot sauce to turn it into
queso! Serve with tortilla chips, or dress a roast beef sandwich. With cheese, the possibilities are endless!
This delicious dip is several healthy steps above your average jarred French onion dip! Just sauté the shallots, let them cool and mix them in with cider vinegar, salt and pepper, chives and Greek yogurt. Top with extra chives for the finishing touch!
Kids seem to go crazy over this fast food dipping sauce, so why not try to recreate it at home? Mix mayo, honey, Dijon mustard, yellow mustard and the two ingredients I'd never considered: lemon juice and barbecue sauce! Serve with chicken tenders, French fries or even use as a salad dressing for a fried chicken salad.
While we’re on the topic of copycats, let’s talk about “special sauce.” McDonald’s makes it sound very mysterious, but I think this recipe has cracked the code! Mayo, French dressing, sweet pickle relish, minced white onion, white vinegar, sugar and salt are all you need for a dressing that goes great on salads and sandwiches (like these
Cheesy Beef Sliders), as well as burgers.
I’m crazy about feta, which is one of the least fatty cheeses out there. This herby dip mixes feta crumbles with fresh chopped dill and parsley, Kosher salt, pepper, olive oil and fresh mint. Blend well and serve with pita chips, lamb, chicken, pork or steak.
Just like at a party or any social scene, finger foods have a way of bringing people together and encouraging interaction. Why save the dips for the parties, when you can rub elbows with the family and make dinnertime a lot more fun?
