Baked Artichoke & Crab Dip

I love a good dip!  If I need to bring something to a party, it is usually a dip.  I always have requests for dip recipes-Buffalo Chicken Dip and White Pizza Dip are two favorites.  Now, when I go to family events those two appetizers are usually already out; so I needed to find a few more good appetizer dips.  This recipe was easy and delicious; I could have eaten it as a meal!

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 can (14 oz) small whole artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
• 8 oz. imitation crab meat, broken apart (if you wanted to splurge, I am sure you could use real crab meat)
• 1 cup real mayonnaise
• 1 cup shredded Italian style Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack Cheese
• 1/2 cup chopped green onions
• 1 jar diced pimentos, drained
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper

DIRECTIONS:

1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. 
2. In a large bowl, combine all ingredients until well blended.
3. Transfer to a 1 quart baking dish.   
4. Bake 20-25 minutes until bubbly and slightly browned.
5. Serve with crackers.
   
   

Difficulty: Easy
Time: 30 minutes
Source: Farm Fresh circular

Crab Dip

Last summer, we found out that my son is allergic to crab meat, which is extremely unfortunate, because it is one of my absolute favorite foods in the entire world.  This dip is outstanding, super easy, travels well for parties, and is always a hit.  Though it is an "old school" recipe with a pinch of this and a squeeze of that, you just can't go wrong...trust me!  It is delicious!!

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 can crab meat
• 1 small onion, minced
• 1 block (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
• 1 1/2 T mayonnaise
• a squeeze of lemon juice
• a pinch of garlic powder
• salt and pepper to taste

DIRECTIONS:

Mix all ingredients and spread in small baking dish.  Bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 30 minutes or until lightly browned.

Difficulty:  Super easy

Time: less than 10 minutes prep, 

Source: my mom