Make Party-Perfect Dips With Chickpeas, Black-Eyed Peas, Or Lentils

Whenever there is a party or a gathering, it is very confusing to decide the dip for each dish. What will go with paneer tikka or spring rolls? It is easy when you only like to make green chutney or have a small bowl of schezwan sauce. But people who often throw gatherings and host parties at home know how important a good bowl of dip is.  

So, next time you are planning your menu, think beyond the basics and try these delicious 8 dips:  

Classic Hummus (Chickpeas) 

There is always a can of chickpeas in the pantry, and a bowl of classic hummus is always a crowd-pleaser. Drain and rinse a can of chickpeas, then toss them into a food processor with a generous spoonful of tahini, a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, a clove of garlic, and a splash of olive oil. Blend until creamy and smooth, then scoop it into a bowl. Drizzle with a bit more olive oil, sprinkle with paprika, and serve with warm pita bread, carrot sticks, and cucumber slices. 

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Spicy Lentil Dip 

Got some lentils in the cupboard? A spicy lentil dip is a perfect way to use them up. Cook a cup of lentils until tender, then blend them with a clove of garlic, a dash of cumin, paprika, and a pinch of cayenne for a bit of heat. Pour in a drizzle of olive oil and blend until you get a smooth dip. Spoon it into a bowl, top with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro, and serve with tortilla chips, bell pepper strips, and cherry tomatoes. 

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Black-Eyed Pea Salsa 

If you have got a can of black-eyed peas, whip up a bright and zesty black-eyed pea salsa. Drain and rinse the peas, then mix them with diced tomatoes, chopped red onion, bell peppers, and a handful of fresh cilantros. Squeeze over the juice of a lime and give it a good toss. Spoon the salsa into a bowl, and serve it with crispy tortilla chips, perfect for scooping up all those fresh flavours. 

Also Read: 6 Best Dips & Accompaniments To Try At Home

Roasted Red Pepper Chickpea Dip 

Roasted red peppers and chickpeas make a perfect pair for a smoky and sweet dip. Drain and rinse a can of chickpeas, then blend them with roasted red peppers, a clove of garlic, a squeeze of lemon juice, and a drizzle of olive oil. Puree until smooth, spoon it into a bowl, and serve it with pita chips, fresh veggies, or as a spread for sandwiches.  

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Creamy Lentil and Yoghurt Dip 

When you are craving something light and refreshing, a creamy lentil and yoghurt dip hits the spot. Cook a cup of lentils until tender, then blend them with a scoop of thick yoghurt, a clove of garlic, and a handful of fresh herbs like mint and dill. Spoon the dip into a bowl, top with a drizzle of olive oil, and serve with cucumber slices, radishes, and crunchy breadsticks. 

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Black-Eyed Pea Hummus 

Switch up your hummus game with black-eyed peas for a smooth and flavourful dip. Drain and rinse a can of black-eyed peas, then blend them with a spoonful of tahini, a clove of garlic, a squeeze of lemon juice, and a drizzle of olive oil. Puree until smooth, then scoop the dip into a bowl. Garnish with a sprinkle of smoked paprika and serve with warm pita, sliced veggies, or spread on sandwiches. 

Spiced Lentil and Carrot Dip 

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For a cosy and comforting dip, try a spiced lentil and carrot combo. Roast a couple of carrots until they are soft and caramelised, then blend them with cooked lentils, a pinch of cumin, coriander, and a drizzle of olive oil. Puree until smooth, then spoon the dip into a bowl, and serve with toasted baguette slices or crunchy pita chips. 

Image Credit: Freepik

Herbed Chickpea and Olive Dip 

Bring a taste of the Mediterranean to your table with a herbed chickpea and olive dip. Blend a can of drained chickpeas with a handful of pitted olives, a clove of garlic, fresh parsley, and a splash of olive oil until smooth. Scoop the dip into a bowl, top with a sprinkle of chopped rosemary, and serve with crusty bread, pita chips, and a variety of fresh vegetables for dipping.