In Turkey, pomegranates’ red color denotes life and fertility. Muhammara is a hot and sweet Middle Eastern dip made from peppers, walnuts, and pomegranate molasses. See the recipe for Hot and Sweet Red Pepper Dip with Walnuts and Pomegranates »

Parmesan cheese and plenty of garlic give this artichoke dip a rich, cheesy tanginess. See the Savannah-Style Artichoke Dip Recipe

Charred vegetables add a layer of smokiness to a tomato-based dip. See the recipe for Lao Tomato Dip »

We like to use thawed, frozen artichoke hearts in this creamy, classic dip. See the recipe for Spinach Artichoke Dip »

This velvety dip is a classic—we like it garnished with pickles and served with plenty of toasted pita chips.

This purée of avocado and sour cream serves as a rich, cooling counterpoint to spicy dishes.

Chiles lend heat to this smoky dip from Kea, Greece. Get the recipe for Eggplant and Parsley Dip (Melintzanosalata) »

Brightened with lemon and garlic, tahini becomes a bright, creamy dip—try it with warm pita, or sliced vegetables.

Our favorite recipe for this classic dip showcases onions three ways: fried, roasted, and fresh.

The best party foods are ones that combine comfort with luxury. Crab is an extravagant ingredient, but when used in a warm, savory dip, a little goes a long way. Get the recipe for Hot Crab Dip with Pita Chips »

Roasted Garlic Chipotle Mayonnaise

Garnished with walnuts and garlic chips, this creamy dip makes a great appetizer.

Topped with rose petals and golden raisins, this simple dip is an elegant mezze.

This spicy, cooked chile-and-tomato sauce is used to add a kick to virtually every dish in Senegal.

This tangy, fresh-tasting ketchup is easy to make at home.

Creamy cottage cheese combines with watercress, lemon, chive, and parsley to make this bright dip for raw vegetables.

Carrots are roasted with rosemary and garlic until tender and slightly caramelized before being puréed with cannelini beans and coriander to make a vibrant, sweet, and earthy dip for raw veggies or pita chips.

Creamy and bright-tasting, lemon parmesan dip makes for an excellent accompaniment to a chip or crudité platter.