Summer has finally arrived, and for many of us, that means lots of outdoor parties and entertaining. Today I’m sharing one of my go-to dips that’s quick and easy to put together. I make mine with full fat ingredients, but you can use low fat if you choose. In any case, this is yummy and quick!

Prep: Easy Time: 10 min. Serves: 6

Ingredients:

2 cups ricotta cheese, fat or low fat

4 T. minced green onions, white and green parts

3 T. fresh dill

2 T. minced fresh chives

1 clove garlic, minced or ½ t. garlic powder

1 garlic clove, cut in half or garlic oil to spread on toast

Kosher salt and coarsely ground black pepper

Crackers, baguette or sourdough bread round

Directions:

• Combine ricotta, scallions, dill, chives, 1 tsp. salt and ½ tsp. pepper and set aside.

• If grilling bread, heat gas grill to medium high and cut baguette into slices, or sourdough slices in half.  (no pix)

• Place slices on grill, and grill each side for 1 ½ – 2 minutes, until lightly browned.  Be sure to monitor grilling as toast can burn quickly! (If toasting, just put bread in toaster or toaster oven and let it do the work!) (no pix)

• Remove toast and rub one side with clove of garlic or spread with garlic oil (garlic oil is sooo much easier!)

• Sprinkle toast with a bit of salt and pepper, top with ricotta and enjoy!

This is lovely served as an appetizer or with a salad for a light lunch. If you’re doing a buffet, just serve a bowl of this dip with herbed bread. I am sure your guests will eat it all up!

*Please keep dip cold if transporting. Dip will keep 2-3 days in refrigerator.

Until next week, wishing you all of God’s blessings, good health and happy eating!

Smiles, Maria