This upgraded version of a classic retro party dip is packed with heat and fresh flavor. No matter the setting or the theme for a party, there is always one must-have that I include in any food spread.
Dip. There’s nothing more satisfying or easier to eat than a party dip. It’s essential. You can make it ahead, prepare it sweet or savory, and it usually gets devoured by guests.
Perhaps the most classic dip of all time is the French Onion Dip. Also known in the 60s as California Dip, it probably remains to be the easiest dip for party planners to throw together and serve with some potato chips.
For my Swanky 60s-esque dinner party, I had to celebrate this quintessential retro recipe. But I wanted to do it with a modern twist. A Fried Scallion Dip that gives the same savory satisfaction as the original, only made with a touch of sour cream and a lot of Greek Yogurt. Plus, unlike the freeze dried flavors of a soup packet, this dip is seasoned with fresh ingredients and spices from the pantry.
Scallions are dipped in flour and then fried until golden brown and crispy.
I drained the scallions on a paper towel and then tossed my spices and fresh minced jalapeño and garlic in to the hot pan. Cooking them releases so much flavor.
Finally, all of this amazing spice gets combined with Greek yogurt and just a touch of sour cream. Dips do need to be a little indulgent, after all. This is my kind of recipe. It’s not a packet, but it’s still quick and easy to make, has fresh ingredients, and is suitable for any party spread. It’s a welcome and wonderful change from the heavy sour cream and dehydrated soup mix of the 60s. The fun part? I served this dip with breadstick “cigarettes” at my 60s-esque party to set the retro cocktail hour vibe.
Do you have a favorite party dip?
Try this easy Wasabi Dip or Pickle Dip at your next party. And for a fun way to serve hummus, load it up with some toppings for your next get-together.
- 8 -10 scallions thinly sliced crosswise
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/4 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 garlic clove minced
- 1 jalapeño seeded and minced
- 1 1/2 cups Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- salt and pepper to taste
- dash of paprika or cayenne on top for more heat optional
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Toss the scallions with the flour in a small bowl.
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Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering then add the scallions and fry. Stir occasionally, until golden brown and crisp, about 3-4 minutes.
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Transfer the scallions to a paper towel to drain.
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Return the skillet to the heat and add the chili powder, coriander, cumin, garlic and jalapeño.
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Stir to combine and cook over medium-high heat for 1 minute. Remove from heat.
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In a bowl, add the Greek yogurt and sour cream.
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Pour spices and 3/4 of the scallions in and stir to combine.
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Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Garnish with reserved scallions.
This dip can be made the day before and refrigerated, but make and add the fried scallions before serving so they retain their crispiness.
Asma says
Love dips. And this looks super yum
Beth says
I love the breadsticks in a box, it really gives it that 60s feel! This recipe looks delicious and a lot lighter than a traditional French Onion dip. I’ll have to give it a try.
Olive Jude says
Hope you enjoy it! It is tasty!
Rachel says
I LOVE dips but I’ve honestly never heard of this one! I’ll have to try it!
Amanda Martin says
You can’t have a party without dip! This one sounds great!
Olive Jude says
Thanks! Dips are a must!
Ashley says
Oh my yums! This looks so good and fun to make!
Olive Jude says
Thanks, Ashley!
Leigh Suznovich says
Such a yummy looking dip and I LOVE how you served it with the “cigarette” breadsticks in vintage boxes. How fun!
Olive Jude says
So fun, right!? Thanks for checking it out!
Denise Riehle says
Love the idea of the recipe, but NEEDED to comment about those candy cigarette boxes. I haven’t seen those in YEARS and they are so cute with the breadsticks. You went above and beyond with this recipe!
Olive Jude says
Aw, thank you so much, Denise! I loved these candies growing up so it clicked to repurpose the boxes at my retro party. It was a lot of fun! (and I found the candies on Amazon, of course!)
Ayanna @ 21FlavorsofSplendor says
Yummy! I can only imagine how the fried scallions take this dip to the next level. Perfect party dip.
Olive Jude says
Thank you! Yes, they add a wonderful crunch and subtle onion flavor.
Eco Friendly Mama says
I always seem to end up with unused scallions every time I buy a bunch to use in a recipe and hate seeing them go to waste. This is a brilliant way to use up those unwanted bits that has never occurred to me before!
Olive Jude says
I always have leftover scallions too…great idea for using them up!