5 Different Dips to Serve at Your Next Hi-Tea

Hosting a hi-tea is a delightful way to entertain guests, offering a variety of small bites and savory treats in an elegant setting. While the spotlight often shines on delicate finger sandwiches and pastries, dips can add a flavorful and versatile component to your spread. They are easy to prepare and can be paired with a variety of dippers such as fresh vegetables, crackers, and bread.

This article will introduce you to a selection of delicious dips, including the vibrant and flavorful cowboy caviar, that will elevate your next hi-tea event.

1. Classic Hummus

Hummus is a timeless dip that is both healthy and satisfying. Made from chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, and garlic, this Middle Eastern favorite is creamy, flavorful, and perfect for dipping.

Ingredients:

• 1 can chickpeas (15 ounces), drained and rinsed
• 1/4 cup tahini
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• Salt to taste
• 2-3 tablespoons water (as needed)
• Paprika and extra virgin olive oil for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a food processor, combine the chickpeas, tahini, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and cumin.
2. Blend until smooth, adding water a tablespoon at a time to reach the desired consistency.
3. Season with salt to taste.
4. Transfer the hummus to a serving bowl and drizzle with extra virgin olive oil. Sprinkle with paprika for a finishing touch.
5. Serve with pita bread, crackers, or fresh vegetables.

Hummus is rich in protein and fiber, making it a satisfying addition to your hi-tea selection.

2. Cowboy Caviar

Cowboy caviar is a colorful and nutritious dip that adds a burst of flavor to any gathering. This versatile dish combines fresh vegetables, beans, and a tangy dressing, making it a perfect addition to your hi-tea menu. Here’s how you can make it:

Ingredients:

• 5-6 Roma tomatoes, diced
• 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed (15-ounce can)
• 1 can corn, drained (14-ounce can)
• 1/2 red onion, diced
• 1 avocado, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 2 tablespoons diced jalapenos (more or less, depending on how hot you prefer it)
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 3/4 cup Italian dressing (I used Wishbone Robusto Italian)
• 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, black beans, corn, red onion, avocado, green bell pepper, and jalapenos.
2. Sprinkle garlic powder over the mixture, then stir in the Italian dressing and chopped cilantro.
3. Mix everything together gently to ensure all the ingredients are well-coated with the dressing.
4. Serve with tortilla chips, preferably the scoop-shaped ones to get a generous portion with every bite.

Cowboy caviar is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it a healthy choice for your hi-tea guests.

3. Spinach and Artichoke Dip

Spinach and artichoke dip is a creamy and indulgent option that is always a crowd-pleaser. This warm dip combines spinach, artichoke hearts, and a blend of cheeses for a rich and flavorful treat.

Ingredients:

• 1 can artichoke hearts (14 ounces), drained and chopped
• 1 package frozen spinach (10 ounces), thawed and drained
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the chopped artichoke hearts, spinach, sour cream, mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, mozzarella cheese, and garlic.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and spread it evenly.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly.
6. Serve warm with bread, crackers, or fresh vegetables.

This dip’s creamy texture and savory flavors make it a perfect addition to any hi-tea spread.

4. Guacamole

Guacamole is a fresh and zesty dip that adds a bright note to your hi-tea table. Made from ripe avocados, lime juice, and various seasonings, guacamole is a delicious and healthy choice.

Ingredients:

• 3 ripe avocados, peeled and pitted
• 1 lime- juice it
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup onion- diced
• 2 Roma tomatoes, diced
• 3 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
• 1 teaspoon garlic- minced
• 1 pinch cayenne pepper- ground (optional)

Instructions:

1. Take a medium bowl and mash the avocados with lime juice and salt.
2. Mix in the onion, tomatoes, cilantro, and garlic.
3. Stir in the cayenne pepper if you prefer a bit of heat.
4. Serve immediately with tortilla chips or fresh vegetables.

Guacamole’s creamy and tangy flavor makes it a refreshing and versatile dip.

5. Tzatziki

Tzatziki is a Greek dip made from yogurt, cucumber, garlic, and herbs. It’s light, refreshing, and pairs perfectly with a variety of dippers.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups Greek yogurt
• 1 cucumber, grated and drained
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, and dill.
2. Mix well and season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
4. Serve with pita bread, fresh vegetables, or as a sauce for grilled meats.

Tzatziki’s cool and creamy texture makes it a delightful addition to any hi-tea menu.

Conclusion

Incorporating a variety of dips into your hi-tea menu can elevate your event and offer something for every palate. From the vibrant and healthy cowboy caviar to the creamy indulgence of spinach and artichoke dip, these recipes are sure to delight your guests.

Each dip brings its unique flavors and textures, making your hi-tea spread both diverse and delicious. So next time you host a hi-tea, remember to include these tasty dips to impress and satisfy your guests.