Eight Layer Spread Recipes

EIGHT-LAYER DIP

Steps:

• For the refried beans, in a medium skillet over medium heat, add the chopped bacon and render until crisp, 7 to 9 minutes. Remove the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate with a slotted spoon and reserve. Discard all but 2 tablespoons of bacon grease from the skillet.
• Return the skillet to medium heat and add the beans, green chiles, cumin and hot sauce to taste. Cook, stirring frequently, until heated through, 2 to 3 minutes. Remove from the heat, taste and add more cumin or hot sauce if desired. Reserve.
• For the pico de gallo, in a medium bowl, mix together the cilantro, tomatoes, jalapeno, onion, 2 tablespoons of the lime juice and a pinch of salt. Taste, adjust the seasoning and reserve.
• For the guacamole, scoop the avocado into a medium bowl. Add a pinch of salt, the remaining lime juice, 1/4 cup of the pico de gallo and 2 tablespoons of the juices from the bottom of the bowl. Mix together, taste and adjust the seasoning.
• In a glass dish, begin layering in the following order: refried beans, Cheddar cheese, sour cream, guacamole, black olives, cotija, bacon and pico de gallo to finish. Enjoy.

EIGHT-LAYER SALAD

Steps:

• Combine the farro with the stock or water in a large saucepan and bring to a boil. Reduce to a simmer, cover and cook until tender, about 30 minutes; drain off any excess liquid. Season with salt and pepper and toss with 1 tablespoon of the olive oil. Set aside to cool.
• Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F.
• Toss the squash with the remaining 2 tablespoons olive oil, a few pinches of salt, a few turns of pepper and a pinch of crushed red pepper. Roast until tender, 25 to 30 minutes. Let cool.
• Make the dressing by combining the yogurt, basil, mayonnaise, white wine vinegar, Dijon and garlic in a medium bowl. Season with salt and pepper.
• In a large glass serving bowl, layer the farro, kale, squash, prosciutto, shallots, dressing, Parmesan and almonds. Finish with the remaining basil and a few turns of pepper.

MINI EIGHT-LAYER DIPS

Steps:

• Make the refried black-eyed peas: Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the garlic and saute 30 seconds. Add the black-eyed peas, vegetable stock, chili powder and cumin. Mash the mixture with a potato masher. Simmer until thickened, about 10 minutes. Season with salt and pepper. Set aside to cool slightly.
• Make the guacamole: Peel, pit and mash the avocados in a medium bowl. Add the lime juice, onion, cilantro, hot sauce, salt and garlic. Mash to desired consistency.
• To finish: Layer the refried black-eyed peas in eight 6-ounce jars, followed by the guacamole, sour cream, salsa, cheese, green onions, tomatoes and olives. Serve with the tortilla strip chips.

EIGHT-LAYER SPREAD

Steps:

• Stir together beans and picante or taco sauce.
• Arrange lettuce on a 12-inch platter, leaving a 2-inch open rim at edge of platter.
• Spread bean mixture over lettuce, making a layer about 1/4 inch thick.
• Then, layer sour cream and avocado dip.
• Top with cheese, onion, and olives.
• Cover and chill up to 24 hours.
• Before serving, arrange tomatoes on top.
• Arrange the chips on a platter around spread.

EIGHT LAYER TACO SPREAD

Steps:

• Stir together beans and picante or taco sauce.
• Spread bean mixture about 1/4 inch thick, on a 12 inch platter, leaving a 2 inch open rim at edge of platter.
• Then layer sour cream, guacamole, cheese, onion, olives and lettuce.
• Cover and chill up to 24 hours.
• Before serving, arrange tomatoes on top.
• Arrange the chips on a platter around spread.