Seven Layer Dip

Seven Layer Dip is a great self-serve appetizer. When we are asked to bring food to a party this is usually my appetizer of choice. It feeds a lot of people and just about everyone likes it. You can custom make this dish to any size you like. You can make one large bowl of Seven Layer Dip or make two little ones to distribute on different tables. A big advantage to this party dip is that it can be made the night before you plan to serve it. One word of caution: If you plan on making this dish the night before please cover it before storing it in the fridge. Guacamole turns brown over time when exposed to air.

Seven Layer Dip Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 can of refried beans. (see refried bean tip)
• 1 bottle of your favorite salsa (a mild or medium salsa is usually best so that it doesn’t overpower the rest of the flavors)
• 1 container of sour cream
• 1 package of taco seasoning
• 1 container of prepared guacamole or make your own.
• 1 can of chopped black olives
• 1 package of shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 bunch of scallions chopped into small pieces
• 1 large bag of tortilla chips

Preparation:

1. The secret to a great seven layer dip is to have one that is firm and not runny. So here is the first thing we do. Take your bottle of salsa and pour it into a colander that is sitting in a bowl or in your sink. Let it drain for at least 15 minutes. You want the solids of the salsa not the liquid.
2. Put 2/3 of the sour cream in a bowl and add about 1/2 of the taco seasoning package. You don’t want to season the sour cream too strongly. So just add half of the package first and stir. Then taste it to decide if you need to add more. You are trying to have all of the ingredients of the dish compliment each other. You will probably have some of the sour cream mixture left over when you are done with the layers.
3. Spread the refried beans on the bottom of the serving dish you are going to serve the dip in. It is best if the serving dish has a flat bottom and is made of glass or wood, a metal dish will react with the acids in the salsa and throw the flavor off.
4. So, you put the refried beans first, then you can put the drained salsa, then the guacamole, then the sour cream mixture, add a layer the chopped olives, add the shredded cheese and finally top it off with the chopped scallions. Make the layers about 1/4 to 1/3 inch high.

You can serve this immediately if you need to but it turns out better if you cover with plastic wrap and put into the refrigerator for an hour to let the sour cream firm up a bit. Put a serving spoon out so your guests can put some on their plate. Oh…and don’t forget to put out a bowl of tortilla chips.

"Moderation. Small helpings. Sample a little bit of everything. These are the secrets of happiness and good health". – Julia Child

Refried bean Tip:

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