Dip

Active time: 1 1/4 hr Start to finish: 1 1/4 hr

Fresh spinach, sauteéd in oil with garlic, is pureed with sour cream and green onions to create this delicious dip. For a picnic, transport the dip and the vegetables in a cooler, or surround them with cold packs in the picnic basket.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

From my mom, Kathy Spivey. Simple and delicious!

Cheese fondue originated in Switzerland, but chocolate fondue was a New World recipe created in 1964 by Konrad Egli, a Swiss-born chef working at New York's Chalet Swiss restaurant. Zurich's Toblerone chocolate works well in the dish, because its honey-nougat blend echoes the honey and almond flavoring that are also in the recipe.

Porcini and shiitake mushrooms are the delicious difference in this fondue. Other varieties would work well, too.

Kraft introduced Velveeta in 1928, and its special cooking properties quickly caught on: When melted, it was as smooth as velvet (hence the name), and it would never curdle when heated. While many Americans today prefer regional or handmade cheeses, a lot of them still secretly indulge in a little Velveeta. After all, Grandma’s macaroni and cheese would never be the same without it. Velveeta makes this dip unbelievably creamy, too; scoop it up with tortilla chips, or try it in tacos.

I'd say this is one of the most perfect American appetizers for a group: warm and creamy, full of flavor, easy and spreadable. Toasted pita triangles and crisp toasts are my favorite choices to offer guests to slather this rich mixture on. No matter what you select, you'll probably find this recipe as versatile as I do.

"Your readers would love the food at Stella's," writes Annoria Tohrm of Richmond, Virginia. "This Greek cafe in Richmond serves all the standards — moussaka, taramasalata, and baklava. But I can't get enough of the baba ghanouj, and I want to make it at home." This Middle Eastern eggplant spread is also a delicious dip for raw vegetables.

A twist on hummus, this sunset-colored dip also makes a delicious sandwich spread. Allow time for soaking the beans overnight.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less but requires additional unattended time.