Continuing my quest to keep bellies full and the kitchen cool this summer, I’m serving appetizers for dinner. It’s as easy as breakfast for dinner, but you pretend you’re at a party — and not, you know, feeding semi-feral family members their 11th meal of the day. Even better, make the following recipes and bring them to an actual party. Either way, use these secrets to elevate store-bought dips and spreads from good-enough to gourmet.
More is more
The easiest way to improve a prepared spread is to read the ingredients on the package, then add more using the freshest you can find. Try: chopped cilantro, real lime juice, or a diced jalapeno in prepared guacamole.
Add an acid
Not sure what your spread needs? A squeeze of citrus (don’t forget oranges!), a flavored vinegar or pickle juice will add a layer of light, bright flavor. Try: a splash of champagne vinegar in black bean dip.
Pair sweet with savory
Diced fruit provides contrast to store-bought savory spreads. Fresh sweet mint adds dimension to jarred pesto and chimichurri. Try: hummus topped with fresh apples or dried apricots.
Embrace umami
No matter where you stand on anchovies, anchovy paste adds impressive umami flavor to everything from tomato salsa to nacho cheese dip. If you have a fish allergy or adhere to a vegetarian diet, substitute soybean-based miso paste instead. Try: anchovy paste in store-bought marinara dipping sauce.
Look for prepared tomato bruschetta among refrigerated produce at grocery stores.
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