Why not add a little cephalopod-y fun to one of the biggest snacking days of the year? One of our favorite dips is so simple to make, and it’s sure to please most anyone – combine 16 oz sour cream, 1 packet of powdered ranch dressing mix, 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, and 3 oz real bacon pieces (you can buy it pre-made or just fry up 4 strips of bacon and finely chop). Mix well and refrigerate for 24 hours. To add an ocean flair, pour the prepared dip in a shallow bowl, cut the end off of one red, orange, or yellow bell pepper, clean the white ribs and the seeds out, and place it, cut side down, in the dip. Cut the end off a second bell pepper, clean it out, slice it into 8 strips and place around the “body” to create an adorable octopus! If you’re feeling extra crafty, you can add olives for the eyes, or even cut little fish out of carrot slices to “swim” in the dip. Serve the dip with crackers, chips, or your favorite veggies. This set up could also work with a variety of other dips or hummus.

Ingredients:

16 oz sour cream

1 package powdered ranch dressing mix

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

3 oz chopped bacon

2 bell peppers

additional chips, crackers, or vegetables