5 layer yogurt dip

You need to leave for the party in an hour and you’re supposed to bring a dish. The problem is, you haven’t made it yet. Many of us have found ourselves in this situation, and it’s no fun. Fear not, this five layer yogurt dip is just what you need. It’s quick and easy to whip up, and made from ingredients you probably already have in your pantry and fridge.

Add extra veggies

This five layer yogurt dip is meant to resemble a taco, so make it taste like one. Anything you would eat on your favorite Mexican treat is fair game on this dip. Try green onions, black olives or jalapeno peppers. Have fun with it!

Add another layer

It’s called five layer dip, but that doesn’t mean you have to stop at five layers. Try slipping in a layer of guacamole between the beans and the yogurt. Buy guacamole at the store or make your own in minutes. To make your own guacamole, smash two soft avocados and add salsa, a splash of lemon juice and salt and pepper to taste.

Low-fat options

Plain Greek yogurt replaces the standard sour cream in this dip to make for a healthier dish. Want to make it even healthier? Replace the refried beans with smashed up chickpeas and use reduced-fat cheddar. Try dipping baked chips, or ditch the chips altogether and dip celery or pieces of baked pita bread.

Dress it up

This dip doesn’t just taste good, it looks good, too. Use a clear glass 13×9-inch baking dish so everyone can see the pretty layers. You don’t have to stick to a rectangle 13×9 dish — any flat-bottomed serving dish with deep sides will work.

Get a head start

This dip can be made in a hurry, but sometimes you still want to work ahead. To give yourself some extra time the day of your event, spread the beans and yogurt the night before. Chop up your veggies ahead of time as well, but store them in plastic baggies in the refrigerator. Don’t add them to your dip too early or they’ll start to wilt.