Dips, glorious dips! Is there anything better than a creamy, flavorful concoction to slather on veggies or scoop up with chips? I think not!
As a long-time vegan and self-proclaimed dip aficionado, I’ve spent YEARS perfecting my repertoire of plant-based dips. And let me tell you, these babies are so good, they’ll make even the most die-hard cheese lovers forget all about dairy.
I’ve teamed up with some of my favorite vegan chefs to bring you this mouthwatering collection of 12 dip recipes that’ll knock your socks off. Whether you’re hosting a party, heading to a potluck, or just want to jazz up your nightly Netflix binge, I’ve got you covered.
From classic crowd-pleasers to unique flavor combos that’ll make your taste buds do a happy dance, there’s something here for everyone. The best part? These dips are all super easy to whip up, so you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time, well, dipping!
So grab your favorite veggie sticks, crackers, or chips (no judgment here) and let’s dive into some seriously delicious dippable delights!
Roasted Red Pepper Hummus
Video Recipe
Oh, hummus. The OG vegan dip that’s practically a food group unto itself. This roasted red pepper version takes the classic to new heights of yumminess.
To make it, blend chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and roasted red peppers until smooth and creamy. The peppers give it a gorgeous orange hue and a slightly sweet, smoky flavor that’ll have you coming back for more.
Pro tip: Roast your own peppers for an extra flavor boost. It’s easier than you think and makes your kitchen smell AH-mazing.
I once brought this to a potluck, and I swear I saw someone licking the bowl when they thought no one was looking. No shame in that game, friend. I’ve been there.
Spinach Artichoke Dip
Video Recipe
Who says vegans can’t enjoy this party staple? This creamy, dreamy dip will make you forget all about the dairy-laden original.
Blend soaked cashews, nutritional yeast, lemon juice, and garlic for the creamy base. Then fold in chopped spinach and artichoke hearts. Bake until hot and bubbly.
The secret ingredient? A dash of liquid smoke. It adds that little somethin’-somethin’ that’ll have people asking, “Are you SURE this is vegan?”
Fair warning: This dip has been known to cause fights over the last scoop. Maybe make a double batch to keep the peace?
Buffalo Cauliflower Dip
Video Recipe
Get ready to set your taste buds on fire (in a good way) with this spicy, tangy dip that’ll give traditional buffalo chicken dip a run for its money.
Roast cauliflower florets until tender, then blend with cashews, hot sauce, and spices. The result? A creamy, zesty dip that’s perfect for game day or any day ending in “y”.
Serve with celery sticks for that classic buffalo wing experience. Just don’t blame me when you find yourself making buffalo-flavored EVERYTHING after trying this.
Guacamole
Video Recipe
Is it even a party without guac? This classic never goes out of style, and for good reason – it’s freaking delicious.
Mash ripe avocados with lime juice, diced onion, tomato, cilantro, and a pinch of salt. Some like it smooth, some like it chunky – you do you, boo.
Hot take: I like to add a dash of cumin for extra depth. It’s not traditional, but it’s tasty AF. Fight me.
Remember, guac waits for no one. Make it right before serving to avoid the dreaded brown avocado situation. (Although let’s be real, we’d still eat it anyway.)
Caramelized Onion Dip
Video Recipe
Get ready for a flavor explosion that’ll make you wonder why you ever bothered with those powdered dip mixes.
Slowly caramelize onions until they’re golden brown and sweet. Mix with cashew cream, a splash of balsamic vinegar, and fresh thyme. The result? Pure. Onion. Bliss.
This dip takes a bit of patience (those onions won’t caramelize themselves), but trust me, it’s SO worth it. Put on your favorite podcast and embrace the zen of onion stirring.
Fair warning: This dip may ruin you for all other onion dips. Proceed with caution (and maybe some breath mints).
Baba Ganoush
Video Recipe
Fun to say, even more fun to eat! This smoky eggplant dip is like hummus’s cooler, more mysterious cousin.
Roast eggplant until it’s soft and smoky, then blend with tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and a touch of cumin. The result is a silky-smooth dip that’s perfect for pita bread or veggie sticks.
Pro tip: For extra smokiness, char the eggplant over an open flame before roasting. Just make sure your smoke detector is working first. (Learn from my mistakes, people.)
Vegan Queso
Video Recipe
“But how can you have queso without cheese?” I hear you cry. Oh, sweet summer child. Let me introduce you to the magic of cashews and nutritional yeast.
Blend soaked cashews with nutritional yeast, salsa, and spices for a creamy, “cheesy” dip that’ll satisfy even the most devoted queso fans.
Add some diced jalapeños if you’re feeling spicy. Or don’t. I’m not the boss of you.
This dip is so good, it might just convert some dairy lovers to the plant-based dark side. Use your powers wisely.
Tzatziki
Video Recipe
This cool, refreshing Greek dip is perfect for hot summer days or whenever you need to pretend you’re on a Mediterranean vacation.
Mix grated cucumber with plant-based yogurt, garlic, dill, and a splash of lemon juice. Let it chill for a bit to let the flavors mingle.
Serve with warm pita bread and close your eyes. Can you hear the waves crashing on a Greek beach? No? Just me? Okay then.
Edamame Hummus
Video Recipe
Because sometimes you need to shake up your hummus game. This vibrant green dip is as tasty as it is Instagram-worthy.
Blend cooked edamame with tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and a touch of miso paste for extra umami goodness. The result is a protein-packed dip that’s sure to become a new favorite.
Bonus: The bright green color makes you feel like you’re eating something super healthy. Which you are. But also, it’s delicious. Win-win!
Black Bean Dip
Video Recipe
When you need a break from hummus but still want that beany goodness, this black bean dip has got your back.
Blend black beans with lime juice, cumin, garlic, and a chipotle pepper for a smoky kick. Top with diced tomatoes and cilantro for a fiesta in your mouth.
This dip is so easy, you could probably make it with your eyes closed. But don’t. That’s messy and dangerous. Safety first, people!
Vegan Ranch Dip
Video Recipe
Because sometimes you just need to dunk ALL THE THINGS in ranch. No judgment here.
Blend soaked cashews with herbs, garlic powder, and a splash of apple cider vinegar for that tangy ranch flavor. Thin it out with plant milk for a pourable dressing, or keep it thick for dipping.
Warning: May cause an sudden increase in vegetable consumption. Your mom would be so proud.
Chocolate Hummus
Video Recipe
Yes, you read that right. CHOCOLATE. HUMMUS. Trust me, it’s a thing, and it’s delicious.
Blend chickpeas with cocoa powder, maple syrup, and a touch of vanilla for a surprisingly decadent dip that’s secretly healthy(ish).
Serve with fruit slices, pretzels, or just eat it straight off the spoon. I won’t tell if you won’t.
This dip is proof that chickpeas are the true MVPs of the legume world. Is there anything they can’t do?
And there you have it, folks! Twelve dip-tastic recipes that’ll make you the hero of your next gathering (or solo Netflix marathon – no judgment here).
Remember, these are just guidelines. Feel free to experiment, add your own twists, and make these dips your own. That’s the beauty of cooking – it’s all about having fun and creating something delicious.
Now, if you’ll excuse me, all this dip talk has made me hungry. I’ve got some serious snacking to do. Happy dipping, my friends!