Caesar Dip with Crudités
Prepare to impress your guests with this delightful Caesar Dip, a creamy and tangy concoction that pairs perfectly with crisp, colorful vegetables. Ideal for serving in a charming small glass bowl, this dip becomes even more appealing when presented atop a head of Boston lettuce, surrounded by an assortment of fresh crudités. Not only does this recipe serve as an exquisite dip, but it also transforms into a flavorful dressing for salads when thinned with a splash of milk. Here’s how to create this scrumptious dip that is sure to be a hit at any gathering.
Ingredients
- 1 cup mayonnaise – A creamy base that lends richness to the dip.
- 1/2 cup sour cream – Adds a tangy flavor and smooth texture.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese – For a sharp, nutty taste.
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice – Provides a zesty kick and brightens the flavors.
- 1 garlic clove, minced – Infuses the dip with aromatic depth.
- 1 anchovy fillet, finely chopped – Adds a subtle umami flavor that enhances the overall taste.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste – For seasoning.
- 1 romaine leaf – For serving, creating a fresh base.
- Assorted fresh vegetables – Such as carrot sticks, bell pepper strips, and cucumber slices for dipping.
Instructions
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Combine Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, grated Parmesan cheese, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, and finely chopped anchovy fillet until the mixture is well combined and smooth. Add salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, adjusting according to your preference.
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Chill the Dip: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the dip for a few hours. This step allows the flavors to meld and intensify, creating a more cohesive and delicious dip.
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Prepare the Serving Dish: Place a head of Boston lettuce on a serving platter. Arrange a small glass bowl in the center of the lettuce, and spoon the chilled Caesar dip into the bowl.
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Arrange the Crudités: Surround the bowl of dip with an assortment of fresh vegetables. Choose vibrant, crunchy options like carrot sticks, bell pepper strips, celery sticks, and cucumber slices to provide a variety of textures and flavors.
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Serve and Enjoy: Present the Caesar Dip with Crudités as a delightful appetizer or snack. For a versatile touch, thin the dip with a little milk to use it as a creamy dressing for salads.
Tips for the Perfect Dip
- Customization: Feel free to adjust the amount of garlic or anchovy according to your taste preferences.
- Serving Suggestion: If serving this dip at a party, consider doubling the recipe to ensure there’s plenty to go around.
- Storage: The dip can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
This Caesar Dip with Crudités is a versatile and crowd-pleasing recipe that is both easy to make and impressive in presentation. Enjoy this delicious blend of flavors and textures at your next gathering!
