Sargent Choice Test-Kitchen: Dill Pickle Dorm Dip

To show dill pickle dip being served along with tortilla chips and carrots. 

February 9th, 2024
Ashly Estrada, Nutrition Student

Why We Chose This Recipe

This zesty Dill Pickle Dorm Dip earns its dorm-worthy title for its simplicity and versatility, perfect for limited kitchen setups. Its straightforward preparation using minimal ingredients—like cream cheese, pickle juice, and dill—makes it a hassle-free dorm room creation. Plus, its compatibility with veggies, chips, and crackers makes it ideal for a variety of snack preferences and study session cravings.  

Sargent Choice Test-Kitchen: Dill Pickle Dorm Dip

Adapted from Spend With Pennies
Yield: 12 servings  

Ingredients

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • ¼ cup pickle juice
  • ¼ cup finely chopped dill pickles
  • 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
  • Dipping food: veggies like carrot sticks, celery, bell peppers, and cucumbers, grains like pita chips, pretzels, or bagel crisps

Directions

  1. In a medium bowl, stir the cream cheese until smooth.
  2. Gradually incorporate the pickle juice into the cream cheese, mixing thoroughly after each addition.
  3. Stir in the finely chopped pickles and fresh dill.
  4. Refrigerate the dip for at least 30 minutes before serving.
To show the process of finely chopping the dill pickles.
This picture shows dill pickles being finely diced before adding them to the dip mixture.

What We Liked

  • We enjoyed the deliciousness, creaminess, and richness of this dip.
  • The ease of preparing this dip was highly appreciated.
  • We were also impressed by the versatility of this dip – it pairs well with various foods such as graham crackers, pretzels, or dippable fruits, thanks to its delightful sweet and creamy flavor.
  • The ingredients included in this recipe are minimal and affordable! There are only 4 ingredients needed to make this dip!
  • Making this dip is a great way to make eating veggies such as carrots fun and tasty! Perfect for Super Bowl Sunday or for any sport-watching event!

    Suggestions

    • This dip is already well suited for dorm life (it’s in the name!) but utilizing pre-chopped pickles or pickle relish would allow for even quicker preparation.  
    • Substitute dried dill for fresh dill to streamline ingredient needs and enhance affordability.
    • Divide any leftovers into small containers for convenient grab-and-go snacks during busy days.
    • Consider using dairy-free cream cheese if this better aligns with your dietary needs.

    Nutritional Value

    • Cream cheese provides calcium and protein essential for bone health and muscle function.
    • Fresh dill and pickles provide antioxidants like vitamin C and flavonoids, supporting the immune system and promoting overall health. 
    • Using veggies like carrot sticks, celery, bell peppers, and cucumbers to dip offers a fun and tasty way to incorporate additional vitamins, minerals, and fiber into the diet.  
    • Dill pickles also contain Vitamin K. Vitamin K plays a crucial role in promoting blood clotting and maintaining robust bone health