It’s almost that much-anticipated time when people across the country sit down to watch the biggest football game of the year and feast on incredible food. As you’re narrowing down your menu choices, be sure to include these extremely simple and scrumptious dips for all your favorite chips, veggies and dunkable snacks. They’ve all got one ingredient in common: delicious California walnuts. These hearty nuts give your favorite side dishes a whole new flavor profile and pack in some hidden nutrition too!
Hummus
Nothing starts game day quite like a delightful hummus dip. Try out these variations on the original to bring next-level flavor to your football (or commercial) watching party.
Toasted Walnut Hummus
Revamp the traditional hummus recipe with hearty chickpeas, crushed California walnuts and a bit of orange tang. You get the creamy dip with a little citrusy, nutty bonus. Serve Toasted Walnut Hummus alongside colorful veggies or pita chips, or spread it on your sandwich!
Edamame Walnut Hummus
With five simple ingredients (plus water), this Edamame Walnut Hummus is a creative dip to impress your family and serve as a sophisticated and tasty side dish during the game. With the buttery edamame alongside a hint of fiery cayenne pepper, you’ve got a complex and refined snack that will leave your family wanting second and third helpings. Plus, the edamame makes for a beautiful mild green color, which is a real showstopper! If edamame isn’t your flavor choice, don’t worry! We’ve got an assortment of hummus recipes for you to find your perfect match.
International Flavors
Football is a classic American sport, but that doesn’t mean you can’t include some international flavors. Kick up your dips with these delicious recipes.Thai Walnut Dipping Sauce
For a distinct Thai Walnut Dipping Sauce, the sweetness of coconut milk and brown sugar balance out the spicy sriracha and hot ginger. (Add a little extra sriracha to kick it up a notch.) Serve it with some delicious coconut shrimp or toss your chicken wings in this sauce for a scrumptious snack ready in mere minutes!Muhammara Dip
Toasted walnuts, hearty bread crumbs and a bit of pomegranate molasses combine with an array of spices for an aromatic Muhammara Dip at your table. Make this the day before and leave it in the fridge for an even better flavor the next day (and no extra work, so you can focus on the game). Serve with pita bread, tortilla chips or crunchy veggies.Roasted Eggplant and Walnut Dip
This Roasted Eggplant and Walnut Dip is the perfect snack to serve with pita bread for a burst of veggie goodness. Eggplants give you a sweet, slightly bitter puree, and California walnuts thicken it for a robust and full-flavored side dish. Season with mint, garlic and Parmesan cheese for a Mediterranean delight.
Spicy and Southwestern Sides
Ready to bring some heat? These spicy and Southwestern options complement that big plate of nachos.
Black Bean Walnut Dip
Move over, bland bean mush. This Black Bean Walnut Dip will bring a whole new flavor to your table. Add some cilantro, kick up the spice with chipotle peppers in adobo and round it out with zesty lime, garlic and onion for a simple Southwestern side you won’t forget.
Walnut and Roasted Tomato Guacamole
A game day spread wouldn’t be complete without some guacamole, and Walnut and Roasted Tomato Guacamole is even better. Adding chopped walnuts to the typical avocado side dish creates a unique dip with a crunch. A little jalapeño pepper gives it that extra oomph, and the result is a creamy concoction in that signature avocado-green color. Serve with your favorite tortilla chips for a new take on this classic snack.
Queso Fundido with Walnut Chorizo
Of course, everyone loves a warm and cheesy queso to dip into. This Queso Fundido with California Walnut Chorizo will bring so much flavor to any spread, and the walnut chorizo provides texture and substance that turns this recipe from a simple dip to a complete side dish. It’s a good addition to include for a plant-forward option on your menu.
Don’t Forget Dessert
After you prepare and serve all the appetizers, make sure to save a little room for a sweet, delicious and super easy dippable dessert.
Brownie Batter Walnut Dip
This Brownie Batter Walnut Dip is more than meets the eye, with hearty ingredients like black beans and crushed California walnuts. The sweetness of the maple syrup, cocoa powder, vanilla and cinnamon will delight your palate as you watch the fourth quarter or revel in post-game victory with your team. Serve with fresh fruits like bananas, pears and strawberries, or break out the honey graham crackers to enjoy this divine dessert.
Greek Yogurt Walnut Caramel Dip
If chocolate isn’t your go-to for decadence, turn to caramel instead. This Greek Yogurt Walnut Caramel Dip brings a new flavor to the table, and the ooey-gooey caramel will satisfy that sweet tooth. It’s made healthier by the inclusion of Greek yogurt and can be paired with apples for a better-for-you dessert option.
Get Ready for the Big Game
Game Day is a chance to explore new and exciting recipes that tantalize your senses and delight your family. Turn up the flavor in your side dishes with dips using tasty California walnuts.
