Mexican Layered Appetizer
A colorful layered appetizer featuring creamy refried beans, ripe mashed avocados, zesty green onions, tangy sour cream, and spicy Picante sauce, perfect for gatherings and casual parties.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Layer the refried beans in the bottom of an 8 or 9-inch square dish.
- Spread the mashed avocados evenly over the beans.
- Sprinkle chopped green onions over the avocado layer.
- Spread sour cream on top of the green onions.
- Finally, strain the Pace Picante Sauce and layer it over the sour cream, adjusting the amount as desired.
- Refrigerate until ready to serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider mixing the sour cream with a bit of lime juice. If you don't have Pace Picante Sauce, any mild salsa will work as a substitute. Adding a layer of shredded cheese can enhance flavor and texture. Don’t forget to season each layer lightly with salt and pepper to elevate the overall taste of this layered dish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Mexican Layered Appetizer with tortilla chips for dipping or alongside fresh vegetable sticks. It pairs beautifully with Taco Wheels(Appetizer) for a festive gathering. For a complete meal, consider serving it with a side of Mexican recipes like Confetti Taco Salad or Lord'S Chili Verde.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The layers may become a bit soggy, so it's best to enjoy this appetizer fresh. If reheating, do so gently in the microwave to avoid overheating the sour cream, which can change its texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mexican Layered Appetizer contains roughly 465 calories, with 25g protein, 36g carbohydrates, and 25g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (55% of the Daily Value), protein (51% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (39% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 777mg per serving (34% 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 layered appetizer a few hours in advance. Just layer all the ingredients and cover it tightly with plastic wrap. Refrigerate until ready to serve. However, for optimal freshness, it’s best to add the Pace Picante Sauce just before serving.
What can I substitute for sour cream?
If you're looking for a healthier alternative, Greek yogurt works well as a substitute for sour cream and adds a nice tang. For a dairy-free option, try using a plant-based sour cream or cashew cream, which can mimic the creaminess without the dairy.
Is it possible to make this dish spicier?
Absolutely! To add some heat, consider mixing in diced jalapeños or using a spicy salsa instead of the mild Pace Picante Sauce. You can also sprinkle some chili powder or cayenne pepper on the layers to kick up the spice level to your liking.
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).