Big Dips: Cheese, Salsa, Pesto, Hummus, Hardcover

Yummy bowls of fix-in-a-jiff blends go with crudites, breads, crackers, chips, and more.

When you're serving party nibbles, there's always room for another appetizer. Whip up some Pumpkin Pepita Hummus to add a dash of color and flavor to a harvest-themed gathering, or put out a bowl of Cheesy Pub Dip to get those football fans cheering. These dips can even add a zesty twist to your next meal: try Watermelon Cucumber Salsa as a topping for salad on a hot summer day, or drop a scoop of Cilantro Peanut Pesto into your stir-fry to take it to the next level. These flavorful recipes require little to no cooking and will delight any palate.

James Bradford is a chef in northern Utah. He specializes in the creative preparation of local ingredients.