Share a Spoon - Skinny Dippin'

One of the hardest things about a change in lifestyle is craving the things we used to love.  You can't deprive yourself.  I have said that time and time again and it's true!  Today over at Think Tank Momma we are doing Share a Spoon.  Many of the recipes linked there are not exactly "light".  Today's theme though is Party Pleezers and Appeteezers.  The death of the diet has been attributed to many a party!  We do so well, and stick with it, and then BLAM!  There is a party and we just mean to have a few bites. 

Before you know it, you have been GRAZING the whole party.  NOT GOOD.  So, here are a few tips.  Eat before you go to the party, or before your guests arrive.  When you are full, those tempting items aren't as appetizing.  Look for the fruit and veggie tray.  Hummus is also a lower fat option.  Where alcoholic beverages are concerned, light liquors with diet soda or a glass of wine.  Stay away from fruity drinks.  They are laden with sugar and juices to make them taste good.  MUCHO CALORIES!  Alternate a glass of water or diet soda in between consuming alcoholic beverages.

So, on to the recipe.  I love ranch and blue cheese.  LOVE IT!  A great ranch dip and some Ruffles?  Oh yeah baby!  So, I worked on one until I found something that is calorie friendly and delivers BIG on flavor so I don't feel like I am eating lowfat no flavor Ranch.

Ingredients:
2 pkg of Ranch Buttermilk Recipe
16 oz Fat Free Sour Cream
1 cup Light Mayo
1 cup Gorganzola crumbles (I use the lower fat cheese option)
2-3 tablespoons heavy cream

Mix sour cream and mayo in large bowl until smooth.  Add the cream and mix well.  I add the cream to give the dip a silky rich texture, but by all means, if you want to leave it out feel free to cut those calories. Add in the Ranch packets and mix until completely incorporated.  Stir in cheese crumbles.  Refrigerate for 30 minutes before serving.

I replace the chips with sliced cucumbers.

This dip is wonderful as an accompaniment to baked buffalo wings.  It pairs well with all raw vegetables for a veggie tray.  My boys love it with baby carrots!  BDC eats it with sliced red and yellow bell peppers.  It's even calorie friendly enough to have a few light Ruffles with, to thwart that potato chip craving.  ALL THINGS IN MODERATION!