When hosting a get-together with friends, I think it’s important to strike a balance between purchasing some food from the grocery store and making other items from scratch. This way, I can put something out that is fresh and allows me to enjoy my friends and family rather than feeling trapped in the kitchen, missing out on all the fun. One of my favorite fresh food items to make from scratch is this garlic parmesan dipping sauce. It’s cool and creamy, which means it pairs really well with fried foods, like fried chicken, spicy foods, like buffalo wings, with fresh veggies, and slices of pita bread. So it pretty much goes with everything!

You might think that it would be easier to just pick up one of your favorite dips from the grocery store, and this would be true. But, there’s something extra special about a scratch-made dip, and this recipe is living proof on how fresh is best. And it’s cost effective too because you likely have every one of these ingredients in your refrigerator or pantry: mayonnaise, lemon juice, garlic, grated parmesan cheese, and herbs.

This truly takes just seconds to prepare, as everything is whisked together in a bowl and then your garlic parmesan dip is ready to go. In fact, it’s a great make-ahead item when party planning. You can make this the night before or in the morning and let it sit in the refrigerator. All of those seasonings will have a chance to really come together for a creamy and flavorful dipping sauce, and it gives you more time to prepare for the shindig!

Garlic parmesan dip is so good, and I’d recommend making a double batch, especially if you’re using it in multiple ways – for fried chicken dipping sauce or for your fresh veggie and pita bread plate. One thing is for sure: this dip is going to be a delicious complement to whatever you pair decide to pair it with!