Season's Greetings: Stir Up These Holiday Gifts

Looking for a low-cost gift without baking yet another sweet treat? Snap up these simple-to-make seasoning mixes for dips on the go.

These dip mixes can be packaged in food-safe ornaments and given as a quick gift for teachers, daycare providers and coworkers.

"As part of our local 'Diabetes Doing Better Together Series,' we made dip mix ornaments," said dietitian Amanda Crosby, RD, CDE, of the Franciscan Healthy Living Center - Diabetes Education. "They were a hit! It's a great low-cost gift that helps reduce sugary temptations, as no baking is involved."

Stir up these base mixes and package in a food-safe ornament or gift bag.

Fiesta Dip Mix

Dry Ingredients

• 3 teaspoons dried parsley 
• 3 teaspoons dried minced onion 
• 1 1/2 teaspoons dried chives 
• 3 teaspoons chili powder 
• 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cumin 

Italian Dip Mix 

Dry Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons Parmesan cheese 
• 1 1/2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 1 1/2 teaspoons onion powder 
• 2/3 teaspoon paprika 
• 1 teaspoon celery seed

Bacon Dip Mix 

Dry Ingredients

• 2 tablespoon imitation bacon bits
• 1 teaspoon beef bouillon granules 
• 2 tablespoons dried minced onion 
• 1/4 teaspoon dried minced garlic

Dill Dip Mix

Dry Ingredients

• 2 teaspoons dill weed 
• 1/2 teaspoon seasoned salt 
• 2 teaspoons onion flakes 
• 2 teaspoons parsley flakes

Each of the dip mixes utilize sour cream, mayonaisse or Miracle Whip, however, you can easily reduce calories and fat in the finished recipes. Lighten up the recipes by substituting nonfat Greek yogurt for sour cream or using a light sour cream and also low-fat/reduced fat Miracle Whip or mayonnaise. Dips should be refrigerated at least 2 hours before serving.