This is one of my go to recipes when I want to serve an hors d'oeuvres that is hot and savory. I received this recipe from my sister-in-law, Tonya, my brother's wife. She does a fantastic job when planning menus for her gatherings. I based some of my rules on her example. I think you may be surprised that there is a packet of ranch dressing in this dip. Well let me be the first one to tell you that that one ingredient alone takes this dip over the top. This goes together quickly and is usually gone immediately. Bring it to your next cookout and come home empty-handed but full bellied.
When hosting a cocktail party that is centered around heavy hors d'oeuvres, I have created the following guidelines for myself:
10 Commandments of Hors d'oeuvres
1. Serve an odd number of hors d'oeuvres: 3,5, or 7.
2. 1-10 guests/3 types hors d'oeuvres, 11-20/5, 21-30/7, being sure to double and triple recipes if necessary.
3. Choose one of each: savory, sweet, spicy
4. Choose from a variety of hors d'oeuvres: canapes, wraps, rolls, spreads, dips, cheese flight, sushi, bruschetta, pastry, crudités, and crackers.
5. Choose one of each: hot, cold, room temp
6. Include fresh fruit and vegetables.
7. Have some vegetarian choices.
8. It must be something that can be eaten with one's hands and is not messy.
9. Be sure you have a way to keep hot things hot and cold things cold.
10. Be sure that many of the items can be made ahead of time.
Spinach and Artichoke Dip
1– 10 ounce package chopped spinach, drained well (squeeze as much liquid out as possible)
8 ounces sour cream
1 jar artichoke hearts, rinsed, drained, and chopped
1 package Hidden Valley Ranch dressing mix
1 package (8 ounces) shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup Parmesan or Pecorino cheese
In a microwave safe bowl mix all ingredients until well blended. Microwave on high for 2 minutes. Stir well and microwave one more minute or until mixture is hot and cheeses are melted. Serve with long, soft French loaf, sliced. Serves 6.
Note- In addition to the hors d'oeuvres, I like to put a out a nice box of Godiva Chocolates or any other specialty box of chocolates. I open the box to display in the middle of the table on a lovely pedestal dish. A delicious centerpiece.
13 comments:
That is an an interesting ingredient. I've had this dip added to a crepe before, and it was delicous. Great photo.
What time is the party at your house? I think I can get there by 7 pm.
Great guidelines, lots of good points there! (and that dip looks YUMMY!!)
Interesting guidelines. The only thing I would add is to also have one non dairy along with one vegetarian dish, although they could be one in the same.
I just speak from experience as we have one friend who does not do dairy.
Kate- Ooh in a crepe no less, now that would be really nice.
Eat!- Just bring the Cheese Steaks and some Jersey corn.
Jeanine- Yeah I like rules, it keeps me focused.
Redforever- Good tip! For me I have to be careful of MSG or I am sunk big time.
You are so right about MSG, I forgot that I religiously read all food labels and avoid that ingredient. My husband can not have this at all!!!!
redforever- we are a not nut family too. So the list grows!! Maybe I'll just serve water, hot, cold and room temp!
This sounds like a great recipe. I'm a huge fan of spinach-artichoke dip, but didn't think it would be these straightforward to make. Thanks for the recipe
Jared- It is a very easy dip to throw together. Thanks for stopping by!
Thanks for the entertaining tips! Please keep 'em coming. I don't know why but having guests tends to give me major anxiety. :( This dip looks super-easy and anxiety-free, though. And delicious!! Thanks!
The Schmoopies- It can be overwhelming for me to have guests. Everytime I do I make notes in my head about what I could do make make things go better! Thanks for stopping by!!
I tried this tonight and it was a hit! My friends all keep raving about it, and it was one of the most simple dishes of the night, I loved the microwave action! It kept my stove and oven free for the big stuff! Thank you!
Katelyn- So happy this was a hit for you and that everyone loved it. I do really love the flavors in this dip. Thanks for commenting!
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