I love going to outdoor parties. Laughing with friends, sunshine on my arms, the smell of grill, Frisbee in the grass and sand volleyball (even though I don’t have a single athletic bone in my body)…
What I don’t love: Trying to figure out what dish to bring that is…
- healthy
- budget friendly
- doesn’t require refrigeration (or warming)
- possible to make with what I already have in the kitchen
If I only had to deal with one of those issues, that would be totally do-able. I’ve got PAGES of healthy recipes right here on the blog, several that don’t require refrigeration (hint: avoid dairy) and 90% of them can be made with everyday regular foods found in most pantries.
However, when it comes to meeting all of the above, I get stuck. Big time.
And it’s taken me YEARS to figure out the simple solution that was staring me in the face the whole time. Just bring a dip!
Instead of racking my brain, trying to let loose some creative idea that’s jammed in a crevice, I can just take stock of the fruits and veggies already in my kitchen (since it’s usually well stocked with both), find a dip recipe that uses what I have in the pantry, and call it done!
I figured that I wasn’t the only one in this boat, so I came up with a list of 18 frugal dips for outdoor parties this summer – perfect for Memorial Day, 4th of July, Labor Day or any other day in between when your friends feel like firing up the grill and offer you a last minute invite.
These dips meet all of the above requirements: Healthy, frugal, room-temperature and simple ingredients. Really, what else can we ask for?
How about grain-free and gluten-free crackers? I shared my own homemade cracker recipe that uses only three ingredients, but it’s not gluten-free and it’s definitely not grain-free. Find six more recipes, especially tailored to the allergy folks, along with the huge list of frugal dips at The Nourishing Home today. Now everyone can have fun crunchy dippers – and cheese and crackers too!
What’s your go-to dish for outdoor parties? I’d love to hear your ideas!
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Thanks for sharing this great list! I’m looking forward to alfresco lunches with my son all summer and can’t wait to try a lot of these.
You’re welcome Jennifer!!
I so love your site and all that you stand for and believe in! I think I have subscribed thirty times (I’m NOT exaggerating!) I’m trying to get your “22 Days to a Fresh Start” series for free in an eBook format!( I know that I’m completely computer illiterate, but please HELP!
Katie!! You are SO sweet! 🙂 Send me an email tiffany (at) dontwastethecrumbs (dot) com and I’ll get you a copy ASAP ! 🙂