Best Dairy Free Seven Layer Dip

If you ask me, seven layer dip is one of those party foods everyone loves.

This dairy-free version of the classic Mexican-inspired appetizer keeps all the good stuff while making it friendly for those who can’t do dairy. Fresh guacamole, seasoned beans, and zesty salsa create satisfying layers of flavor.

It’s topped with crisp lettuce, diced tomatoes, and black olives, plus a homemade cashew cream that perfectly replaces the traditional sour cream and cheese. The layers look just as good as the original.

It’s a crowd-pleasing dip that’s perfect for game day, potlucks, or any gathering where you want to make sure everyone can dig in.

What Kind of Refried Beans Should I Use?

While this recipe calls for homemade refried beans, you can definitely use canned refried beans as a time-saving alternative. Traditional refried beans are usually made with pinto beans, which offer a creamy texture and mild flavor that works perfectly in this dip. Black refried beans can also work well here, bringing a slightly earthier taste to the dish. If you’re buying canned, look for versions labeled “vegetarian” or “fat-free” to keep the dip dairy-free – some brands add lard or other animal products to their beans. Just make sure to give canned beans a good stir and heat them slightly before using to improve their texture and spreadability.

Options for Substitutions

This dairy-free dip is super adaptable and you can switch things up based on what you have:

• Refried beans: If you don’t want to make homemade refried beans, canned versions work great. You can also use black beans mashed with some garlic and cumin for a different twist.
• Guacamole: No time to make guacamole? Just mash ripe avocados with lime juice, salt, and garlic powder. Or skip it if avocados aren’t ripe – just add extra lettuce and tomatoes.
• Fresh Tomato Salsa: Any type of salsa works here – jarred, verde, or even corn salsa. Pick your favorite!
• Green onions: Red onions (finely diced) or regular white onions work just as well. Just soak them in cold water for 10 minutes to reduce their sharp bite.
• Iceberg lettuce: Feel free to swap in romaine or even shredded cabbage for extra crunch.
• Avocado mayo: Besides vegannaise, you could use cashew cream, dairy-free yogurt, or even mashed avocado mixed with a bit of lime juice and salt.
• Black olives: Not an olive fan? Leave them out or replace with diced bell peppers or pickled jalapeños for some heat.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Making

The biggest challenge when making seven layer dip is dealing with excess moisture, which can make your dip watery and unappetizing – be sure to drain your salsa and pat dry your lettuce thoroughly before layering.

Temperature control is crucial: serving the dip too warm can make the layers slide around, while too cold can make the refried beans too firm to scoop – letting it sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving gives you the perfect consistency.

A common error is rushing the layering process; take your time to spread each layer evenly to the edges of your serving dish, and if using guacamole, mix it with the lime juice immediately to prevent browning.

For the best presentation and scoopability, make sure to spread your refried beans first and press them firmly against the bottom of the dish, creating a stable foundation for the remaining layers.

What to Serve With Seven Layer Dip?

This dairy-free seven layer dip is perfect for parties and needs the right dipping companions to make it shine! Tortilla chips are the classic choice – I like using the scoop-shaped ones since they can hold more of those tasty layers. For a healthier option, try serving it with a rainbow of fresh veggie dippers like cucumber rounds, bell pepper strips, baby carrots, and celery sticks. You could also put out some warm corn tortillas or plantain chips for something different. If you’re hosting a bigger gathering, this dip fits right in alongside other Mexican-inspired dishes like tacos, quesadillas, or a big bowl of elote corn salad.

Storage Instructions

Keep Fresh: This seven layer dip is best enjoyed within 24 hours of making it. Keep it covered with plastic wrap in the refrigerator, pressing the wrap directly onto the surface to prevent the guacamole from browning. The lime juice helps maintain the freshness of the avocado layer, but it’s still best to eat it sooner rather than later!

Make Ahead: If you want to prep this dip in advance, try making the individual components separately. You can prepare the refried beans, salsa, and chopped veggies up to 2 days ahead and store them separately in the fridge. Just assemble the layers right before serving for the freshest taste and best presentation.

Leftovers: While this dip is really best fresh, any leftovers can be kept in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that the lettuce might get a bit wilted and the layers might not look as pretty, but it’ll still taste good! Just give it a quick stir before serving if needed.

Preparation Time	10-15 minutes
Cooking Time	0 minutes
Total Time	10-15 minutes
Level of Difficulty	Easy

Estimated Nutrition

Estimated nutrition for the whole recipe (without optional ingredients):

• Calories: 800-900
• Protein: 15-20 g
• Fat: 45-50 g
• Carbohydrates: 90-100 g

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup shredded iceberg lettuce (adds a refreshing crunch)
• 2 tbsp lime juice (freshly squeezed for brighter flavor)
• 1/3 cup chopped green onions
• 1/2 cup halved cherry tomatoes
• 1/4 cup avocado mayonnaise
• 1/3 cup sliced black olives (I use Lindsay Naturals)
• 2 cups tomato salsa
• 2 cups refried beans (homemade preferred for best texture)
• 1.5 cups guacamole (freshly made for optimal flavor)

Step 1: Layer the Refried Beans

Begin by spreading the refried beans evenly into the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish.

Make sure the layer is smooth and covers the entire base of the dish.

Step 2: Add Guacamole and Salsa

Next, spoon the guacamole on top of the refried beans, smoothing it into a second even layer.

Follow with pouring over the salsa and smoothing it into a third layer.

Each layer should fully cover the layer beneath it.

Step 3: Add Fresh Toppings

Sprinkle an even layer of chopped green onion, sliced olives, shredded iceberg lettuce, and diced tomatoes over the salsa.

Make sure these ingredients are evenly distributed to ensure each bite is packed with flavor.

Step 4: Prepare and Drizzle Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together your choice of mayonnaise, vegannaise, or sour cream with lime juice.

Once fully combined, drizzle this dressing over the top layer of tomatoes, spreading it lightly to cover as much surface as possible.

Step 5: Serve or Refrigerate

This layered dip can be served immediately, offering fresh, delicious flavors.

Alternatively, cover it and refrigerate for up to 2 days, which allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Enjoy with your favorite tortilla chips or as a side dish!