4.88 14 Published Apr 30, 2021, Updated Jan 20, 2024 Some layered dips have no texture, but this is not that kind of recipe! The veggies add freshness along with the crunch factor that everyone craves when snacking.
What is 7-Layer Dip?
Also known as taco dip or 7-layer dip, this dip is a common American appetizer. According to a quick search, I found that it was popular in Texas and then was first published in print in 1981. Since then, countless variations have been made but the base recipe remains the same: delicious layers of Tex-Mex ingredients!
Healthy Layer Dip Ingredients
This recipe follows the traditional seven layer dip ingredients, but with Greek yogurt instead of sour cream or mayo! Here’s what you’ll need: Layer 1: Refried Beans
Refried beans are the base of the dish. I like keeping it simple with store-bought beans, but you’re welcome to use homemade. And feel free to use refried pinto beans or refried black beans.
Layer 2: Seasoned Greek Yogurt
Greek yogurt is a a healthy upgrade from sour cream, but trust me it’s still tangy and delicious! And we’re mixing it with taco seasoning for lots of flavor. Feel free to make your own taco seasoning or buy a pre-mixed version.
Layer 3: Guacamole
You can use store-bought or homemade guacamole. I personally love my healthy guacamole with frozen peas.
Layer 4: Salsa or Pico de Gallo
I typically use fresh pico de gallo, because it’s delicious and doesn’t contain as much liquid, but any salsa will work! If your salsa seems liquidy, I recommend straining it.
Layer 5: Cheese
You can’t have layer dip without some shredded Mexican cheese. That said, if needed you can omit the cheese to make this dish vegan and dairy-free. It’s delicious both ways!
Layer 6: Veggies
Romaine lettuce – this adds a nice crunch! Cherry tomatoes – I love the flavor explosion cherry tomatoes have with every bite!
Layer 7: Toppings of choice
Olives – sliced black olives are usually the final topping for layer dip. I don’t love black olives so I left them off, but feel free to add them if you like them. Jalapeño pepper – optional, but this dip is great with a little spice if you like that sort of thing! Fresh cilantro leaves – to bring the entire dish together!
How to Serve 7-Layer Dip
This dip is AMAZING for parties and game-day, but I have to mention that it’s not JUST for parties. During the recipe testing process Isaac and I polished off a whole batch for dinner one night. Which actually isn’t a bad thing considering it’s basically a taco salad – just in dip form. It’s got lettuce and everything!
Can You Make it Ahead of Time?
I’ve found this dip is best when you make it the same day you plan to serve. There are so many fresh ingredients that it just tastes the best fresh! Plus, the guacamole will start to brown quickly. If you’re in a pinch, you can definitely prep the recipe the day before, cover with an airtight cover and refrigerate until you’re ready to serve. Layer dip is typically served chilled because of the sour cream (Greek yogurt) and guacamole!
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The guacamole may brown a bit, but the dip is still safe to eat.
More Tex-Mex Recipes to Try
Mexican Street Corn Salad Slow Cooker Cheesy Mexican Quinoa Casserole Southwest Sweet Potato Black Bean Dip Red Chilaquiles Cowboy Caviar
The Most Popular Appetizers
Healthy Buffalo Chicken Dip Healthy Guacamole with Frozen Peas Cheesy Cauliflower Nachos Whipped Cottage Cheese Hot Honey Whipped Cottage Cheese Bacon Wrapped Dates
Be sure to check out all of the appetizers here on EBF as well as my collection of healthy game day recipes!
