Mediterranean Greek Yogurt Dip (Trader Joe’s)

Only $2.99

Time and time again I find myself rushed, on my way to a party, and Trader Joe’s is there to save my ass without breaking my budget.  On a Sunday evening I darted into the ever so popular grocery store to pick up some delicious snack so I wouldn’t arrive empty handed.  I perused the section of fresh dips and salsas ready to snag a solid favorite from their arsenal when a new item highlighted with an orange tag drew me in.  I snagged the Mediterranean Greek Yogurt Dip and a bag of Reduced Guilt Pita Chips, and hustled to the registers to check out.  Armed with my snack, I arrived at my destination ready to please my host and their guests.  Here’s how it went:

I decided to present this on a plate and in a dish, but the manner in which the dip is packaged allows for you to just pop it open and serve as the Za’atar spice is resting on top.  I laid down plate, taking the first dip myself.  It was thick and creamy with small chunks of feta mounted on my chip.  I popped it in my mouth and let my tongue do the investigation.  The tangy flavor of greek yogurt combines with the acid of lemon juice highlighted by salty notes from feta cheese.  The Za’atar spice provided the finish adding a savory sesame kick.  This dip was incredibly popular and extremely addictive.  It took all of my willpower to not hover over it, hoarding it from the rest of the guests.  In all honesty, I found myself returning frequently, consuming half the dip on my own.  I even plunged my finger into the crevices of the dish, removing all of the dip, and finished off what was left.

So, you need something quick to take to that party full of hungry guests.  Here’s what the FORK U do:  1.Go to TJ’s and pick up this dip.  2.Find something to dip into it (celery and broccoli for you health nuts)  3.Impress everyone there and look like a rock star.  4.Go home with that cute guy/girl you’ve been staring a hole through all night.

Avocado health benefits

Avocado health benefits.

I absolutely had to share this one in my Heathy Habits category.  Did you know you can also use avocados to make pudding?  When I was going raw and needed some sweets, this is the recipe that I turned to: (Food Processor recommended):

• 1 fully ripe avocado
• 1/2 banana
• 8 pitted fresh dates
• 3 tbsp. Raw Unsweetened Cocoa
• 1/4 cup of water
• 2 tbsp. Raw Agave Nectar
• pinch of  sea salt, cinnamon, and cayenne to taste

1. Prep all your fruits (peel, pit, and chop),toss into the food processor, and blend to a chunky puree.
2. Add water slowly and continue blending to achieve desired consistency.
3. While still blending, add agave and cocoa
4. Finally, add salt, cinnamon, and cayenne to taste.  If you don’t like a little bit of heat in your pudding, leave out the cayenne.  But, trust me, there’s a reason they add a little heat to chocolate in Mexico.