Chilled Mexican Appetizer
A vibrant and flavorful chilled Mexican appetizer featuring layers of bean dip, fresh avocado, tomatoes, and a creamy seasoned topping. Perfect for parties or casual gatherings, it combines spicy, tangy, and cheesy flavors that appeal to everyone looking for a cool, savory starter.
Ingredients
- 9 oz. can of commercial bean dip ⓘ
- 6 oz. can of tomato paste ⓘ
- 4 oz. can of chopped green chilies, drained ⓘ
- 2 avocados, peeled and chopped ⓘ
- 2 small tomatoes, chopped ⓘ
- 2 tsp. lemon juice ⓘ
- 1 1/2 c. sour cream ⓘ
- 1/2 c. mayonnaise ⓘ
- 1 1/4 oz. package of taco seasoning mix ⓘ
- 1 small green pepper, chopped ⓘ
- 1 bunch green onions, chopped ⓘ
- 4 1/2 oz. can of chopped ripe olives, drained ⓘ
- 2 1/2 c. shredded sharp Cheddar cheese ⓘ
Instructions
- Combine bean dip, tomato paste, and chopped green chilies; spread mixture in a 12-inch round platter with sides.
- Combine chopped avocados, tomatoes, and lemon juice; toss and arrange evenly over the bean mixture; set aside.
- Combine sour cream, mayonnaise, and taco seasoning mix; spoon over avocado mixture.
- Combine chopped green pepper, green onions, and chopped ripe olives; sprinkle over the sour cream layer.
- Top with shredded sharp Cheddar cheese.
- Cover and chill for 2 hours.
- Serve with tortilla chips.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a layer of Greek yogurt along with the sour cream. If you're looking for a healthier option, substitute the mayonnaise with plain yogurt or avocado oil. You can also adjust the heat by using mild or hot taco seasoning. To enhance flavors, add some fresh cilantro or lime juice.
Serving Suggestions
This vibrant appetizer pairs beautifully with tortilla chips or fresh vegetables for dipping. For a complete meal, serve alongside a refreshing salad or alongside dishes like Chile Quesadillas or Cold Nachos. It also makes a great addition to a buffet spread or as a party snack, ensuring your guests will love this flavorful dish.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover appetizer in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain the freshness of the avocados, cover the surface with plastic wrap, pressing it directly against the guacamole layer. This dish is best served cold, so there's no need to reheat; simply enjoy it straight from the fridge.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chilled Mexican Appetizer contains roughly 217 calories, with 6g protein, 19g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (60% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 622mg per serving (27% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this appetizer ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this dish a day in advance. Just ensure you cover it well and refrigerate. However, for optimal freshness, it's best to add the avocado layer shortly before serving to prevent browning.
What can I use instead of sour cream?
If you're looking for a substitute for sour cream, you can use Greek yogurt for a similar tangy flavor. Alternatively, silken tofu blended until smooth can provide a dairy-free option while maintaining the creaminess.
Can I add more vegetables to this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to get creative by adding diced bell peppers, corn, or even some black beans for extra texture and flavor. This dish is versatile and can be customized to suit your taste.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).