Can I make this veggie dip without mayo?
Yes. Swap the mayo for more Greek yogurt. The dip will be tangier and a little less rich, but still really good. If you want that rounder flavor without mayo, add 1 teaspoon olive oil.
What if I only have sour cream?
You can use sour cream 1:1 in place of the Greek yogurt. If you do that, I still like a squeeze of lemon to keep it bright.
How do I keep veggie dip from being watery?
Use thick Greek yogurt, not regular yogurt. If your yogurt seems a little loose, you can strain it in a fine mesh strainer for 15 to 30 minutes. Also, keep watery add-ins in check (extra lemon juice, shredded cucumber, just-washed herbs). Pat herbs dry before chopping. And yes, microplaning the garlic helps it melt into the dip so you do not get sharp little chunks, but thickness is mostly about the yogurt.
What vegetables are best for dipping?
Crunchy ones with edges and ridges are undefeated. Think carrots, celery, sugar snap peas, bell peppers, cucumber spears, broccoli florets, cauliflower, radishes, and cherry tomatoes. For something different, try lightly blanched green beans chilled in ice water. Pro move: cut things into spears or florets so they have more surface area to hold onto the dip.
Can I turn this into a ranch style dip?
Absolutely. Add 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, and 1 to 2 teaspoons dried parsley (plus a splash of buttermilk if you want it thinner and more pourable). If you want a true ranch vibe fast, you can also stir in 1 to 2 teaspoons ranch seasoning and adjust salt to taste.
How far ahead can I make it?
This dip gets better after a rest. Make it 1 to 24 hours ahead, cover, and refrigerate. Stir before serving and add a tiny splash of lemon juice or buttermilk if you want to loosen it up.
My dip is too thick (or too thin). What do I do?
If it is too thick, stir in 1 teaspoon at a time of milk, buttermilk, or lemon juice until it is scoopable. If it is too thin, add a few tablespoons more Greek yogurt or strain the dip in the fridge for 20 to 30 minutes.