Mary Hunsaker'S Dip
A creamy, flavorful dip combining Italian dressing, lemon, and shrimp, perfect for parties and gatherings, served with crackers or vegetable sticks for a delightful snack.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Blend all ingredients well except the shrimp.
- Add the small can of shrimp to the mixture.
- Chill the dip in the refrigerator.
- Serve with crackers and/or vegetable sticks.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother dip, allow the cream cheese to soften at room temperature before blending. You can substitute fresh shrimp for the canned variety if desired, or use crab meat for a different flavor. Adjust the Tabasco sauce to your heat preference. If you prefer a tangier taste, add more lemon juice to enhance the flavors.
Serving Suggestions
This dip pairs beautifully with crackers or vegetable sticks such as celery and carrots. You can also serve it alongside chips for a crunchy contrast. For a more substantial appetizer, consider serving it with toasted baguette slices or as a spread on sandwiches. It's a great addition to any seafood recipes spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for 2-3 days. When ready to serve again, you can let it sit at room temperature for a little while to soften or stir in a bit of sour cream if it thickens too much.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mary Hunsaker'S Dip contains roughly 220 calories, with 6g protein, 19g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is a good source of protein (11% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 853mg per serving (37% 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 dip ahead of time?
Absolutely! This dip can be made a day in advance, allowing the flavors to meld together. Just remember to store it in the refrigerator and give it a good stir before serving.
What can I use instead of shrimp?
If you're not a fan of shrimp, you can easily substitute it with crab meat or even minced clams for a different twist. Both options will still provide a delicious seafood flavor to the dip.
How can I make it spicier?
To add more heat, increase the amount of Tabasco sauce or incorporate diced jalapeños into the mix. You can also experiment with different hot sauces to find the perfect heat level for 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).