Hot Spinach-Artichoke Dip and Healthy Dip Ideas

Who doesn't love foods that can be dipped? My toddler usually demands something to dip into at every meal. He would very much approve of all the suggestions in this post.

Most finger food buffets start with the obligatory tray of veggies and fruit.  They are easy to make and even quicker to grab already assembled.  This week local grocery store delis will probably have cute - ehm, very masculine - football shaped trays of pre-cut items that you can just uncover and serve.

Grab some low or non-fat yogurt or sour cream, mix in a scoop of dill and a couple dashes of garlic powder, let it chill for at least 30 minutes, and serve it up.  Another good mix-in is a packet of powdered ranch dressing and maybe a squeeze of lemon.

Salsa is a go to dip in the healthy eating world. There are tons of styles to choose from so it can be fun to put out a few different kinds.  To make a creamy salsa dip stir or blend in a couple tablespoons of non-fat plain yogurt or sour cream. When it comes to salsa the real question is what to dip into it...?

Pretzels are a nice low fat crunchy snack and a serving of regular flavored sticks or mini twists come in just over 100 calories, depending on the brand.

A fun twist on standard pretzels are Pretzel Crisps. Eleven Crisps are around 110 calories, they come in various flavors, and are a little more chip like in texture. My favorite flavor is Everything.

Of course the most obvious partner for salsa is tortilla chips.  They can start to add up in the calorie department but it's okay to eat some chips, just pay attention to the serving size.  I am a fan of whole grain tortilla chips, their heartier texture and fuller flavor makes them a more satisfying choice of chip.  These can also be a little better bang for your nutritional buck depending on the chip you pick.  Make sure to read the labels; not all whole grain or natural tortilla chips are more healthy but they are marketed to look that way.  Try the Food Should Taste Good brand, I like the Jalapeño, Lime, Olive, Sweet Potato and Multigrain - truthfully I have yet to try the others but you probably can't go wrong!  Baked tortilla chips are lower in calories and fat but I feel like baked tortilla chips are a bit of a downer on a snack table.  Bottom line - choose the chips you enjoy and eat mindfully.

Another easy grab and go dipper is a shrimp tray.  Buy them already assembled or pick up the shrimp from the fish counter. There are approximately 80 calories and 1 gram of fat per 3 oz serving of shrimp.  I don't know about you but I think this might be the best dipper on the list. Not only is it a low fat and calorie choice but it has 18 grams of lean protein and a variety of vitamins and minerals.  Topped it with a squeeze of citrus and a side of cocktail sauce shrimp is the skinniest dipper at the party!

Finally, let's make something for the guests who just don't want to eat any of that dumb healthy stuff.  I really like how easy it is to whip up this creamy and gooey Hot Spinach-Artichoke Dip. You have my full permission to sit back smugly while non-healthy eaters obliviously dig in.

When served hot this dip is so creamy and indulgent it will feel completely sinful to eat.  I'll leave it up to you to let your guests in on the secret or not.  On game day this Sunday or for any other party I hope all my readers will be ready to serve some dip and eat it too!

Have a favorite lightened up dipper or dip?  Share it in the comments!