So the beginning of the new year always brings with it some special opportunities. It is the beginning of football playoffs, so you are having friends over or maybe you are tailgating. You also are trying to recover from the holidays, and this most likely includes eating more veggies. So why not combine the two? I know what you are thinking, “Veggies at a tailgate? Who’s going to eat that?” Well, mix them together in a Mediterranean Dip and watch it disappear!
I have made this dip many times and it is one of the most requested recipes that I have. It is similar to the Mexican 7 Layer dip, but with a lot less fat and a few less calories. Plus people see all of those colorful veggies and tell themselves that it is healthier. This is easily prepped a day ahead and them assembled at the last minute. Give it a try and let me know how it works at your next party.
Mediterranean 7 Layer Dip
8 oz of Cream Cheese
2-3 cloves of garlic
10-12 oz of Hummus (I like Sabra)
½ Cup of chopped green onions
½ Cup of seeded chopped cucumbers
½ Cup of seeded chopped tomatoes
½ Cup chopped Kalamata Olives
1 Cup (8oz) Feta Cheese crumbled
Chop the garlic and cream together with the cream cheese. Place in Refrigerator for at least one hour. This is best if done overnight. Remove garlic cream cheese and allow bring to room temperature.
Chop onions, cucumbers, tomatoes and olives. This step can be done a day before and refrigerated.
Spread cream cheese into bottom of plate or bowl. Spread Hummus on top of cream cheese. Sprinkle cucumbers, onions, tomatoes and Olives over the hummus cream cheese mixture. Sprinkle feta cheese on top.
Serve with Pita chips. Stacy’s Naked Pita chips are good. But I prefer to make my own. No it is not that hard!
Chips
I package of pita bread
Olive oil
Kosher salt.
Cut or break pita into bite-sized pieces. I like to separate the sides for a thinner chip. Place on a baking sheet that has been sprinkled with olive oil (DON”T USE VIRGIN OLIVE OIL). Sprinkle with Kosher salt. Place in 400 degree oven until lightly toasted. Don’t brown.
Now you’ve got a yummy, health(ier) treat for the game-day party. Enjoy, sports fans!
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