Game Day Bean Dip

Right now, all I can think about is football. At this same time last year, I had no idea who or what a 12th Man was, and I kept wondering why Skittles were such a big deal at the grocery store. After last year’s amazing Super Bowl, I have become a serious Seahawks fan. (Just for the record, I have been saying that they would be going to the Super Bowl again this year since football season started.)

It will be a small group of us watching the game on Sunday, but I have my heart set on watching them win again. My idea of a great Super Bowl spread is one that takes care of itself. I think people like to come in, watch the game, and get up and eat when they feel like it. I am planning to dig out the triple crock-pot so that I can pay attention to all the excitement, too.

One pot will have Italian meatballs and marinara sauce, with a thin baquette bread cut into small sections for mini-sub sandwiches alongside. Buffalo chicken tenders go in the second pot, with a bottle of Frank’s sauce and some homemade blue cheese dressing.

The third pot will have a homemade bean dip, which is super easy to make and perfect for the Super Bowl. I have been making this recipe since I was in college, and even if you have no time, you can make this one thing for your party. You probably have everything you need right in your kitchen. Ready?

1 can pinto beans
1 jar salsa
Cheese of your choice

That’s it!

I heat the beans and their liquid in a large pot or cast iron pan, mashing them as they heat. Stir in salsa, about 3/4 – 1 cup. Mix in grated cheese, between 1/2 and 1 cup. I like to use a shredded, reduced fat Mexican blend that I always have on hand because you can do so much with it. Now let that cook and thicken. You can adjust the salsa and cheese, more or less, to your liking. I sometimes add in a can of roasted green chiles or jalapeños for more heat. You can also double this up for larger crowds.

This bean dip is healthy. It has no preservatives or additives like the jarred kinds you find in the store. I used organic pinto beans and salsa, and a reduced fat cheese, but you can feel free to use whatever you have on hand. Best of all, you can say it is home made.

Put out a veggie tray with some guacamole and hummus, and let your guests bring some great local beer and bags of chips. Last but not least, some brownies and of course, some really great coffee. We are in the Northwest, aren’t we? Go Seahawks!