When I Dip You Dip We Dip
I really enjoy entertaining friends, and I tend to do a decent amount of it this time of year. Sometimes it’s a big, planned soiree, sometimes it’s a last-minute gathering of friends who happen to be in the neighborhood. (And there are always fun tunes … like the one I referenced in the title. Anybody catch it?)
But regardless of who it is and whether it was planned, I’m the kind of hostess who always likes to have something tasty — and interesting — on hand to offer as a snack.
And I’ve got a couple of suggestions for those of you who feel the same way about your hosting duties.
For the last-minute crowd …
You might think that veggies with hummus is pretty standard fare, but HOPE Hummus has some flavors that are far from ordinary. I’m particularly fond of the new Black Garlic Hummus they recently sent to me for review, although I’ve had and enjoyed the Thai Coconut Curry Hummus in the past, and the Sriracha Hummus is also a spicy and unusual treat.
If you have time to plan ahead …
I think you’re gonna want to give this Lemon Infused Smoked Trout Spread from The Posh Pescatarian a try. Here’s what she has to say about it (and the recipe is below!):
My lemon infused smoked trout spread is creamy and tangy from the goat cheese with just the right amount of richness from the smoked fish. This is my go-to recipe for appetizers, brunch and snacks. For brunch you can spread it on a bagel for along with sliced cucumbers and tomatoes and for your weekly meal prep its great for dipping carrots, celery or whole- wheat pita. Anyway you use it is divine!
Lemon Infused Smoked Trout Spread
INGREDIENTS
- 3 ounces of Chèvre (goat cheese)
- 6 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 2 teaspoons lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped
- 6 ounces smoked trout in olive oil, drained and flaked (reserve oil for other use)
- Juice of ½ a lemon
- Sea salt to taste
DIRECTIONS
By hand or with a mixer, blend the cream cheese with the lemon zest, lemon juice and chives. Gently fold in the smoked trout. Taste the spread and add sea salt as desired. Allow the mix to chill in the refrigerator for 15 minutes prior to serving.
What are your go-to recipes for entertaining? I’ve also been known to throw in a frozen pizza or two and cut them into small pieces for sharing. It’s not fancy, but it’s always a hit. —Kristen