Hanging out with Friends {recipe: Layered Mexican Dip}

February 16, 2013

Hanging out with Friends {recipe: Layered Mexican Dip}

There are two parts of every meal we share with family and friends that I look forward to... appetizers and dessert! Not to say I don't enjoy the main course and the side dishes... but, who can stop nibbling on appetizers and really save room for dinner? I can always save room for dessert... which is why I have been known to have a get together that is built around the two best parts of any meal!

I had the pleasure having enjoy the company of friends twice in one week... Which was such a bright spot in the cold days of winter!

Mexican layer dip for nibbling during the Super Bowl tonight! What will you be munching on?

Can I tell you that after spending time in the last month or so with various friends either for lunch or these get-togethers what a difference it has made in the way I am enjoying this season? I've not made it a secret that I'm counting down the days to spring... but, staying social has made the season so much more bearable! I think in the past, I've had a tendency to hibernate in the cold months and only socialize when I run into people at the grocery store.

Quick visits are nice and all, but taking the time to hang out and spend time with other people makes a big difference. I'll be continuing to make hanging out with friends a priority since it has made my least favorite season so much more enjoyable!

This layered dip is not new to anyone, but I changed it up a little bit because of what I had on hand once I decided to make it... strangely (or maybe not so strange), I tend to have all of these ingredients on hand pretty much all of the time. So, this can be a last minute appetizer to serve or bring to someone's house to share.

What is your favorite appetizer to make and share with friends?

5 Layer Mexican Dip

Recipe by PatsyK

Ingredients

15 ounce can fat-free refried beans, some brands offer gluten free versions
8 ounces plant based cream cheese, softened (Tofutti makes one that works well)
2 teaspoons taco seasoning - checking the ingredients for allergens you need to avoid
4 ounces guacamole (I used Trader Joe's prepared guacamole, but you can make your own with great results)
1/4 to 1/3 cup salsa (use your favorite kind)
1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (omit if avoiding dairy or select a plant based shredded "cheese" replacement)

Directions

Spread the refried beans on the bottom of your serving plate.
Mix the cream cheese and taco seasoning in a bowl until well blended. Gently spread on top of the refried beans, making sure to leave a little bit of the beans showing.
Next, spread the guacamole on top of the cream cheese mixture - again, leave a bit of the previous layer showing.
Spread the salsa on top of the guacamole - continuing to leave a bit of the previous layer showing.
Finally, add the shredded cheese on top. Each layer should be showing for a nice effect. Chill until ready to serve.