Let's talk dips

Yes, my children are dips, in every sense of the word. But that’s not what I mean. I mean the yummy food that you use as condiments and as full meals.

The Boys love dip, and if you do it correctly it's healthy for them also.

Dip doesn't have to mean creamy ranch dressing (although its mighty mighty good). There are plenty of alternatives, salsa, yogurt dip, hummus, guacamole and much more. One great thing about most of these dips is that the kids can help in the preparation of most of them.

Ranch Dip -
First let’s look at the traditional ranch dip. While most of our kids can surely afford the calories and fat associated with the sour cream, we as parents (who eat after and with our children) sometimes can't. So how do we lower the guilt without lowering the nutrition? One way is to use Silken Tofu instead of sour cream, just replace it ounce for ounce with the sour cream. You'll need to blend it up a bit to break it down some and give it the proper consistency. Then add the ranch mixture. The kids won't know the difference and will be getting a big dose of protein in the dip.

Hummus -
It’s a wonderful treat that is easy to make and is a different consistency than creamy dips. Hummus lends itself well to things like pita bread (whole wheat, homemade), sliced veggies or even just by the spoonful! We add agar flakes for an extra bit of nutrition.

Guacamole -
This creamy goodness is full of food and flavor. Guacamole is easy, quick and can be adjusted to suit your tastes depending on the situation. It's a great place to add some 'other ingredients' that will boost the food content without changing the flavor. Mix in homemade salsa.

Salsa -
Fresh and full of flavor, make it yourself and watch the nutritional benefits rise. Fresh tomatoes, cilantro and onions do alot for the food content; add to that content by adding some chopped veggies into the salsa.
Substitute salsa for ketchup on Burger and Hotdogs, mix it into meatloaf. Instead of deep fried tortilla chips, buy some baked ones, or make your own. Wedge up some flour or corn tortilla's lightly brush with olive or Canola oil and bake in the oven. When they come out and are still hot sprinkle with spices to your taste.

Dave