Some dips require special treatment: Warming before serving, or keeping cool. See the second recipe at the bottom of this page for an easy, more classic-style "warm" dip recipe.

Meanwhile, the first recipe below keeps well at room temperature for hours, and uses simple ingredients that are easy to have on hand; a nice appetizer can be whipped up in minutes. It also makes a great sandwich spread! Makes almost a quart; enough to serve 15 or so.

First Recipe: Easy Artichoke Spread

Ingredients:

• 1 lb. cheddar cheese, room temperature

• 14 oz. can artichoke hearts, packed in water, drained (frozen or marinated can be substituted)

• 1/4 c. Italian dressing (half that if using marinated artichokes)

• 1/2 c. mayonnaise
  

Cut into chunks and process in food processor, or blender, into fine pieces: > 1 lb. cheddar cheese

Add to processor and blend until smooth: > 14 oz. can artichoke hearts, drained (or substitute frozen, or marinated)

Add remaining ingredients, mix well: > 1/4 c. Italian dressing (use half that if using marinated artichokes) > 1/2 c. mayonnaise

Serve the dip at room temperature, with chunks of bread, or veggies.

Second Recipe: Easy Warm Artichoke Dip

Ingredients:

• 1 (14 oz) canned or frozen artichoke hearts or bottoms, drained and chopped
• 1 (6 oz) can marinated artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
• 1/4 tsp. cayenne
• 1/2 TBS. fresh, chopped garlic
• OPTIONAL: chopped green chili peppers or jalapenos
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 8 oz cream cheese, room temperature
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1- (6 oz.) jar marinated artichokes
• Chopped parsley or green onion for garnish 
  

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
Place in food processor or blender until smooth: > 14 oz. canned or frozen artichokes > 1/4 tsp. cayenne > 1/2 TBS. garlic > (optional: chiles or jalapenos)
Add to processor and "pulse" just until incorporated: > 8 oz. cream cheese
Add and "pulse" again, until mixed (or hand-mix all ingredients in, in big bowl): > 1/2 c. mayonnaise > 1/2 c. sour cream > 1 c. Parmesan
Last, blend in lightly: > 6 oz. jar marinated artichokes (drained)
When blended, put mixture into a pie dish or 8" square pan and bake at 350 degrees for 20-30 minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley or chopped green onion and serve.