Summer gatherings just got a whole lot tastier! As the temperatures rise, there’s nothing like gathering around with friends and family to enjoy some delicious and refreshing treats. And what better way to do that than with a platter full of creamy cold dips?
From classic flavors to bold twists, we’ve rounded up 20 mouthwatering recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Whether you’re looking for something light and refreshing or rich and indulgent, we’ve got you covered. So grab your favorite chips, veggies, and crackers, and get ready to dip into the fun!
In this article, we’ll take a tour of the most scrumptious cold dips that are perfect for summer gatherings. From creamy avocado and lime to smoky baba ganoush, we’ll explore the best combinations of flavors and textures to satisfy your cravings.
Creamy Avocado and Lime Dip
A refreshing twist on classic guacamole, this creamy dip combines the richness of avocados with the brightness of lime juice.
Ingredients:
– 3 ripe avocados
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cut the avocados in half and remove the pit. Scoop the flesh into a blender or food processor.
2. Add the lime juice, yogurt, and honey to the blender. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if desired.
4. Transfer the dip to a serving bowl and garnish with cilantro leaves, if desired.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Cucumber Dill Yogurt Dip
Beat the heat with this light and zesty dip that combines the freshness of cucumbers, the tanginess of yogurt, and the brightness of dill.
Ingredients:
– 1 large cucumber, peeled and seeded
– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Grate the cucumber using a box grater or a food processor with the shredding attachment.
2. In a bowl, combine the grated cucumber, yogurt, dill, and lemon juice. Mix well until smooth.
3. Season with salt to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
5. Serve chilled, garnished with additional fresh dill if desired.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (no cooking required)
Spicy Black Bean and Corn Dip
Spicy Black Bean and Corn Dip Recipe
This bold and flavorful dip combines the rich taste of black beans with the sweetness of corn, all wrapped up in a spicy kick.
Ingredients:
– 1 (15 ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup sour cream
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, combine black beans, corn kernels, mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Mix well until combined.
3. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish or ramekin and bake for 20-25 minutes or until heated through.
4. Remove from oven and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped cilantro if desired.
6. Serve warm with tortilla chips, pita bread, or veggies.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Garlic Herb White Bean Dip
Elevate your snack game with this creamy, aromatic dip made with cannellini beans, garlic, and herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 (15 oz) can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine cannellini beans, garlic, olive oil, rosemary, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
2. Blend until smooth, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning if desired.
4. Transfer dip to a serving bowl and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese (if using).
5. Serve with crackers, pita chips, or vegetables.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Servings: 8-10
Roasted Red Pepper Hummus
Roasted Red Pepper Hummus Recipe
Transform your hummus game with this sweet and smoky twist! Roasting the red peppers brings out their natural sweetness, pairing perfectly with the creamy chickpeas.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked chickpeas
– 2 roasted red peppers (see notes)
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
– 1/4 cup tahini
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roast the red peppers by placing them on a baking sheet and baking for 30-40 minutes, or until charred and blistered.
3. Let the roasted peppers cool, then peel off their skin, discarding any seeds.
4. In a blender or food processor, combine the chickpeas, roasted red peppers, lemon juice, tahini, garlic, and salt. Blend until smooth.
5. With the blender running, slowly pour in the olive oil to emulsify the mixture.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes (including roasting time)
Cool Ranch Buffalo Chicken Dip
Elevate your snack game with this creamy, spicy, and addictive dip that’s perfect for game day gatherings or cozy movie nights.
Ingredients:
– 1 (16 oz) container of cream cheese, softened
– 1 cup ranch dressing
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (or more to taste)
– 1 cup cooked, shredded chicken breast
– 1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese and ranch dressing. Mix until smooth.
3. Add shredded cheddar cheese, chopped cilantro, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Mix well.
4. Stir in cooked chicken breast and buffalo wing sauce.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until warm and bubbly.
7. Serve with tortilla chips, crackers, or vegetables.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Fresh Mango Salsa Dip
Add a burst of tropical flavor to your next gathering with this sweet and tangy Fresh Mango Salsa Dip. Perfect for dipping chips, veggies, or crackers, this refreshing recipe is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1/2 cup red onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 teaspoon honey
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine mango, red onion, jalapeño pepper, and cilantro.
2. Squeeze lime juice over the mixture and toss to coat.
3. Stir in honey until well combined.
4. Season with salt to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
6. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: None, as this recipe is a dip!
Smoked Salmon and Cream Cheese Dip
A deliciously elegant appetizer that combines the rich flavors of smoked salmon with the creaminess of cream cheese.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz smoked salmon, flaked
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Fresh dill, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix together the flaked salmon, cream cheese, sour cream, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and salt until smooth.
3. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish or a small cast-iron skillet.
4. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the dip is lightly set.
5. Garnish with chopped fresh dill, if desired.
6. Serve warm or at room temperature with crackers, bagels, or vegetables.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chipotle Lime Shrimp Dip
This bold and tangy dip combines the flavors of chipotle peppers, lime juice, and succulent shrimp for a unique and delicious snack or appetizer. Perfect for a gathering with friends or as a flavorful twist on traditional party dips.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, finely chopped
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine shrimp, mayonnaise, lime juice, chipotle peppers, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.
3. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish or small cast-iron skillet.
4. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the dip is lightly set and warm through.
5. Remove from oven and garnish with cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Greek Feta and Olive Dip
Greek Feta and Olive Dip Recipe
A classic Greek appetizer that’s perfect for snacking or serving at parties, this creamy dip combines the tangy flavors of feta cheese, olives, and herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of crumbled feta cheese (about 8 oz)
– 1/4 cup pitted green olives, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine the crumbled feta cheese, chopped olives, garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, and oregano.
2. Mix well until all the ingredients are fully incorporated.
3. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed with salt and pepper.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
5. Serve chilled, garnished with a sprinkle of paprika or chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (mostly prep time)
Serve with pita chips, crackers, or vegetables for a delicious and easy snack!
Balsamic Strawberry and Goat Cheese Dip
Elevate your snack game with this sweet and savory dip, perfect for fruit, crackers, or veggies.
Ingredients:
– 1 (8 oz) container goat cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup balsamic glaze
– 1 ripe strawberry, pureed
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, mix together the softened goat cheese and balsamic glaze until smooth.
2. Add the pureed strawberry, honey, and salt. Mix until well combined.
3. Taste and adjust sweetness or tanginess to your liking.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled, garnished with fresh thyme leaves.
Cooking Time:
– Prep time: 10 minutes
– Chill time: 30 minutes
This dip is perfect for a quick snack or as a unique appetizer for your next gathering. Enjoy!
Pesto and Artichoke Dip
Pesto and Artichoke Dip: A Creamy Twist on Classic Dips
This rich and flavorful dip combines the bold flavors of pesto with the tender, buttery goodness of artichokes. Perfect for snacking or serving at your next gathering!
Ingredients:
– 1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 1/2 cup pesto
– 1 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine artichoke hearts, pesto, cream cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.
3. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish or a small cast-iron skillet.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the dip is warm and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Servings: 8-10
Creamy Spinach and Parmesan Dip
Elevate your snack game with this rich and creamy spinach dip infused with the savory flavor of Parmesan cheese. Perfect for parties, gatherings, or a quick indulgence.
Ingredients:
– 1 (14 oz) container cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh spinach
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix cream cheese until smooth.
3. Add chopped spinach, Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, and garlic powder; stir until well combined.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish or ramekin.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until warm and bubbly.
7. Serve warm with crackers, chips, or vegetables.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Southwestern Corn and Avocado Dip
A delicious and refreshing dip perfect for any gathering or party, this Southwestern Corn and Avocado Dip combines the creamy richness of avocados with the sweetness of corn and a hint of spice.
Ingredients:
– 3 ripe avocados
– 1 cup fresh corn kernels (from about 2 ears)
– 1/2 red bell pepper, seeded and chopped
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and chopped
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss corn kernels with 1 tablespoon of water on a baking sheet and roast for 10-12 minutes, or until slightly caramelized.
3. In a large bowl, mash avocados with a fork until mostly smooth.
4. Add roasted corn, bell pepper, jalapeño, yogurt, lime juice, salt, and pepper to the mashed avocado. Mix well.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Garnish with chopped cilantro if desired. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Cool Thai Peanut Dip
A creamy and refreshing twist on traditional peanut butter, this dip is perfect for warm weather gatherings or as a unique snack.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup creamy natural peanut butter
– 1/4 cup coconut cream
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine peanut butter, coconut cream, soy sauce, lime juice, and honey. Mix until smooth.
2. Add red pepper flakes if desired for an extra kick of heat.
3. Season with salt to taste.
4. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes (prep only)
Yield: About 1 cup
Layered Mediterranean Tzatziki Dip
A refreshing twist on traditional tzatziki dip, this layered version combines creamy yogurt with the flavors of the Mediterranean.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup diced cucumber
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
– 1/4 cup artichoke hearts, drained
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together yogurt, cucumber, parsley, feta cheese, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Spoon half of the yogurt mixture into a serving bowl or ramekin.
3. Top with olives, artichoke hearts, and remaining yogurt mixture.
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes (including refrigeration)
Tangy Pineapple Salsa Dip
Elevate your snack game with this sweet and tangy pineapple salsa dip, perfect for topping chips, veggies, or crackers.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup diced fresh pineapple
– 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine pineapple, red bell pepper, cilantro, and jalapeño.
2. Squeeze lime juice over the mixture and stir until well combined.
3. Add honey and stir until dissolved.
4. Taste and adjust with salt if needed.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
6. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Roasted Garlic and White Cheddar Dip
Elevate your snack game with this rich and creamy dip, perfect for crackers, chips, or veggies. The roasted garlic adds a deep, nutty flavor that complements the sharpness of the white cheddar.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 heads of garlic
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup white cheddar cheese, shredded
– 1/4 cup sour cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the top off each garlic head, drizzle with olive oil, and wrap in foil.
3. Roast for 30-40 minutes, or until tender and caramelized.
4. Remove from oven and let cool slightly.
5. Squeeze roasted garlic cloves into a bowl, discarding skins.
6. Add softened butter, shredded cheese, and sour cream to the bowl. Mix until smooth.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with parsley or chives, if desired.
9. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Zesty Lemon and Herb Ricotta Dip
A bright and refreshing dip perfect for warm weather gatherings or as a tangy addition to your favorite snacks.
Ingredients:
– 1 (15 oz) container ricotta cheese
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, lemon juice, parsley, dill, and garlic.
2. Mix until smooth and well combined.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and stir gently.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a cold dip.
Serve: With crackers, vegetables, pita chips, or as a topping for pasta or pizza.
Smoky Baba Ganoush Dip
Elevate your snack game with this smoky twist on the classic Middle Eastern dip, Baba Ganoush.
Ingredients:
– 1 large eggplant
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup smoked paprika
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/4 cup tahini
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the eggplant in half lengthwise and place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Roast the eggplant for 30-40 minutes, or until the skin is blistered and charred.
4. Let the eggplant cool slightly, then peel off the skin and scoop out the flesh into a blender or food processor.
5. Add the garlic, smoked paprika, lemon juice, tahini, olive oil, salt, and pepper to the blender.
6. Blend until smooth and creamy, adding more lemon juice if desired.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
8. Garnish with parsley or cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Summary
Get ready to beat the heat with these 20 creamy cold dip recipes perfect for summer gatherings! From classic combinations like avocado and lime, to spicy black bean and corn, and even smoky baba ganoush, there’s something for everyone. These refreshing dips are sure to please a crowd, whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ or just need a quick snack. Try out these unique flavors and enjoy the perfect companion to your summer fun!
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