Dips aren’t just side dishes – they’re flavor bombs that bring people together and elevate the entire meal. Found in every corner of the globe, dips made from yogurt, vegetables, nuts, or fermented ingredients express local culture and culinary identity. Here, you’ll find 20 authentic dips from around the world – each with its own story, taste profile, and usage. From silky hummus to spicy pindasaus – there’s something for everyone.
Why Do We Love Dips?
Because dips make everything better. They’re versatile, quick to prepare, and packed with flavor. They work as sides, appetizers, snacks, or as part of a larger mezze spread. They bring contrast, balance, and character – and invite us to dip, share, and taste together.
Dips make everything better
Many dips come from traditions centered on communal eating and sharing. In the Middle East and Mediterranean, dips like hummus, baba ganoush, and tzatziki are part of mezze – a collection of small dishes served to share. In India, chutneys accompany most meals, balancing spicy dishes with acidity and freshness. In the US and Northern Europe, dips are essential at parties and snack tables – from ranch to remoulade.
1. Blue Cheese Dip – Creamy and Salty American Classic
Typically served with buffalo wings and veggie sticks. Combines blue cheese with yogurt and mayonnaise for a rich, salty, and slightly tangy dip with deep umami from the cheese.
2. Tzatziki – Fresh Greek Yogurt-Cucumber Dip
One of the most iconic Greek dips. Made with strained Greek yogurt, cucumber, garlic, and olive oil. Refreshing, creamy, and slightly tangy. Perfect for grilled meats and pita.
3. Fava – Greek Yellow Split Pea Purée
A warm or room-temperature dip with a soft, creamy texture and mild taste. Often topped with olive oil and red onion. Served with bread as part of mezze.
4. Tirokafteri – Spicy Feta Dip from Greece
Made with feta, yogurt, olive oil, and chili. Strong, salty, tangy, and with a spicy kick. Great with grilled vegetables and bread.
5. Labneh – Lebanese Strained Yogurt Cheese
Thick, strained yogurt transformed into a fresh, spreadable cheese. Served with olive oil and za’atar. Silky, slightly tangy, and perfect with flatbread.
6. Raita – Indian Yogurt Dip with Cucumber and Spices
Raita balances heat and spice. Made with yogurt, cucumber, herbs, and spices like cumin and chaat masala. Refreshing and cooling.
7. Haydari – Turkish Yogurt and Feta Dip
A thick, savory dip with Greek yogurt, feta, garlic, and fresh herbs. Creamy and intense. Essential for Turkish grilled dishes.
8. Baba Ganoush – Smoky Eggplant Dip from the Middle East
Grilled eggplant blended with tahini, lemon, and garlic. Distinctly smoky flavor with a rough yet creamy texture.
9. Hummus – Classic Chickpea Dip
One of the most beloved dips worldwide. Made with cooked chickpeas, tahini, lemon, and garlic. Silky and smooth – perfect with almost anything.
10. Pico de Gallo – Fresh Salsa from Mexico
A raw salsa made with tomato, onion, chili, lime, and cilantro. Fresh, crisp, and tangy. Great for tacos, chips, and grilled meats.
11. Salsa Verde – Green Mexican Tomatillo Salsa
Tangy and slightly smoky dip made from tomatillos, chili, and cilantro. Served with tacos, fish, and chicken.
12. Guacamole – Creamy Avocado Dip from Mexico
A classic with avocado, lime, chili, onion, and tomato. Rich, fresh, and mildly spicy. Great with chips, tacos, or as a spread.
13. Aioli – Southern French Garlic Mayonnaise
Intense and creamy with a strong garlic flavor. Perfect for fries, fish, and bread.
14. Remoulade – Classic Danish Dip
Mayonnaise mixed with curry, piccalilli, and mustard. Tangy, sweet, and slightly spicy. Used with fish cakes, hot dogs, and open-faced sandwiches.
15. Taramosalata – Greek Roe Dip
Made from cod roe, bread, and oil. Creamy, salty, and slightly citrusy. A Greek mezze staple.
16. Ranch – American Cream Dressing
A blend of mayonnaise, buttermilk, and herbs. Mild, creamy, and aromatic. Often paired with veggies and wings.
17. Mint Chutney – Fresh, Green Indian Herb Dip
Made with mint, cilantro, chili, and lemon. Fresh, sharp, and aromatic. Used for snacks, grills, and street food.
18. Muhammara – Pepper and Walnut Dip from the Middle East
A deep, sweet-spicy dip made with roasted peppers, walnuts, and pomegranate molasses. Thick and flavorful.
19. Skordalia – Greek Garlic and Potato Dip
Mashed potatoes mixed with olive oil, vinegar, and lots of garlic. Strong, creamy, and tangy. Great with fish and bread.
20. Pindasaus – Dutch Peanut Sauce
Spicy dip made from peanut butter, coconut milk, and soy sauce. Served with fries, satay, or noodles. Rich, sweet, and umami.
Dip, Share, and Savor the World
These 20 dips are more than just side dishes – they are concentrated bites of tradition, ingredients, and bold flavors. Use them for inspiration at your next tapas night, mezze spread, or picnic. Or pick a few and make your own dip board – perfect for guests, grilling, or everyday flavor boosts.