invisible hit counter

KETO POOLSIDE DIP

by

Total Time: 12 minutes
Active Prep Time: 12 minutes
Cooking Time: 0 minutes
Difficulty Level: Easy
Yield: About 2.5 cups (serves 6)

Ingredients

  • 8 oz (225g) full-fat cream cheese, softened to room temperature

  • 1/2 cup (120ml) full-fat sour cream

  • 1/4 cup (60ml) high-quality mayonnaise

  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

  • 1 teaspoon white wine vinegar

  • 1 small garlic clove, minced (about 1/2 teaspoon)

  • 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh chives

  • 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh dill

  • 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh parsley

  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder

  • 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika, plus more for garnish

  • Sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste

  • 4 slices cooked bacon, cooled and crumbled (about 1/3 cup)

  • 1/2 cup (55g) sharp cheddar cheese, finely shredded

  • For Serving (Optional): Celery sticks, cucumber rounds, bell pepper strips, radishes, pork rinds, or keto-friendly seed crackers.

Instructions

  1. Combine the Base:
    In a medium mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise. Using a hand mixer on medium speed (or a sturdy whisk and some elbow grease), beat for about 1-2 minutes until the mixture is completely smooth, creamy, and free of any lumps.

  2. Add Herbs & Seasonings:
    To the creamy base, add the fresh lemon juice, white wine vinegar, minced garlic, chopped chives, dill, parsley, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Season with a pinch of sea salt and a few grinds of black pepper (remember, the bacon and cheese will add saltiness).

  3. Incorporate Mix-Ins:
    Using a silicone spatula or wooden spoon, fold in about 3/4 of the crumbled bacon and all of the shredded cheddar cheese until evenly distributed. Reserve the remaining bacon for garnish.

  4. Chill & Blend Flavors:
    For the best flavor, transfer the dip to a serving bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This resting time allows the flavors to meld beautifully and the dip to firm up slightly for the perfect dipping consistency.

  5. Serve:
    Just before serving, give the dip a quick stir. Garnish with the remaining crumbled bacon, an extra sprinkle of smoked paprika, and a fresh sprig of dill. Arrange your chosen low-carb dippers on a platter alongside the bowl.

Nutritional Information (Per 1/6th of recipe, approx. 1/3 cup dip only):

  • Calories: 315 kcal

  • Total Fat: 30g

  • Saturated Fat: 14g

  • Cholesterol: 75mg

  • Sodium: 380mg

  • Total Carbohydrates: 3g

  • Dietary Fiber: 1g

  • Net Carbs: 2g

  • Protein: 8g

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate calculated using a database and may vary based on specific brands and measurements used. Values do not include optional dippers.

Chef’s Tips & Variations:

  • The Softening Secret: Ensuring your cream cheese is truly soft is the key to a silky, lump-free dip. Leave it on the counter for 1-2 hours before starting. In a pinch, you can microwave it in a microwave-safe bowl for 15-second intervals at 50% power.

  • Herb Flexibility: Fresh herbs are highly recommended for the brightest flavor, but in a pinch, you can use 1/3 of the amount in dried herbs (e.g., 2 teaspoons dried dill instead of 2 tablespoons fresh).

  • Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce to the mix for a subtle kick.

  • Make-Ahead Friendly: This dip can be made up to 2 days in advance. Store tightly covered in the refrigerator. Stir well and add fresh garnishes before serving.

  • Dippers Matter: For maximum crunch and minimal carbs, opt for fresh, sturdy vegetables. Thick-cut cucumber rounds and bell pepper strips hold up exceptionally well.

Leave a Comment