Dips and Spreads

There are many versions of this popular easy Greek Feta Dip, known as Htipiti or Tirokafteri. Some use sweet red bell peppers and cayenne pepper, others use spicy red pepper flakes or fresh spicy red peppers. Different varieties of vinegar (such as red wine vinegar or plain white vinegar) or added oregano or Greek yogurt …

Adding Mango Chili Chutney to a plate is a wonderful way to elevate a dining experience to a new level. This condiment has its origins in Indian food, which is known for its intensely flavored and complex cuisine. It goes really well with Indian dishes such as chicken vindaloo curry. We love to add this …

Salate de Vinete, a Romanian eggplant dip, is a very simple traditional Romanian dish. It is similar to the Middle Eastern dish, Baba Ghanoush, but without tahini (toasted sesame seed paste).   Our version of Romanian Eggplant Dip also includes green onions for a little extra color and flavor.  Salate de Vinete (or Aubergine dip) is …

Zacusca is a slow-cooked eggplant and red pepper spread. This traditional Romanian dish is made in Autumn when its main ingredients, eggplants, and gogosari peppers are in season. Gogosari peppers are very similar to red bell peppers, which is what I use in this recipe.  During our time in Romania, we came to enjoy having …

Buffalo Chickpea Dip is an excellent Hummus variation if you love the flavors of Spicy Buffalo Dip.  I’m a bit of a buffalo wing nut — I love wings. But I’m very particular, too. Wings need to be crispy, the hot sauce must be the perfect mix of heat and flavor, and the accompanying sauce …

Spicy Hummus with Chipotles adds a smoky flavor and a kick of spice that brings a simple hummus recipe to a new level. Hummus is a versatile dish that is easy to love. It makes a wonderful dip for toasted pita squares, tortilla chip or veggie sticks or can be used as a spread for …

The first time I had guacamole, I really wasn’t a big fan. That is probably because the dip was either store bought or made in a blender so the consistency was runny. Then I had my first guacamole made table side at a restaurant and the whole flavor was completely different. The dip was thick …

Cheesy Black Bean Dip is one of those appetizers that always gets rave reviews whenever we serve it. Warm bean dip mixed with pico de gallo and spices, laced with cheese. The dish is finished with more cheese and pico de gallo and, optionally but highly recommended, a good dose sour cream.  The dip also …

I happened to have several figs left over from a poached fig with walnuts and chocolate dessert I made earlier in the week. Figs (in my experience) are one of those ingredients that don’t get used very often, and then when you have them the few leftovers end up lingering in the pantry until you …

This yogurt dip recipe was inspired by a recent trip to Istanbul. In most restaurants after you are seated a waiter comes along with a tray filled with little dishes (mezze or appetizers). There is typically an assortment of hot and cold items available with flavors that vary from mild to spicy. Going out for …