White Bean Dip

Over the holidays, I made a tasty white bean dip, but while I ate it, I thought of a ton of ways to jazz it up. So last weekend, I finally tested out my twist on the classic dip. First, I skipped the cream cheese and opted for a more tangy cheese — goat cheese. To give the dip more texture, I then added chopped roasted bell peppers and scallions. Finally, to further enhance the flavor, I warmed it up and browned the top just before serving. The resulting dip was divine with both crudités and crackers. Ready to try this dip? Get the recipe.

In the Winter, I always love to invite my friends over for a cookie swap or edible gift-making party. However, I've never done something like this during the warmer months — until now. Inspired by a new Williams-Sonoma book, The Art of Preserving, I'm hosting a canning party and I suggest you do the same. First select a date — preferably a relaxed time, like Sunday afternoon — then decide what you want to make at the event. Throw in some homemade snacks and you've got yourself a fabulous little party. At mine, I'll offer guests two nibbles in the form of a white bean dip with parsley oil and an oven-dried tomato tart with goat cheese and black olives.

What will we be making? Peach-rosemary jam and classic dill pickles! If this sounds like fun to you, check out these recipes, after the break.

Hummus has always been a staple snack for all my parties, but since it's so popular, it can get boring. Here's a twist on that basic recipe. You'll find this version is slightly creamier since it's made with Greek yogurt, and the dill gives it a fresh, zippy flavor. If you have time, whip up this dip, and refrigerate it overnight — it tastes much better the next day.

To see my recipe read more