Javascript is not enabled.

Javascript must be enabled to use this site. Please enable Javascript in your browser and try again.

Skip to content
Content starts here
CLOSE ×
Search
Leaving AARP.org Website

You are now leaving AARP.org and going to a website that is not operated by AARP. A different privacy policy and terms of service will apply.

Annie Potts Shares Favorite Snack Recipes

Simple cheese spread and bean dip your guests will love

spinner image Annie Potts
LISA CORSON

I'm an intuitive cook — I experiment a lot. My mother didn't prepare food much when I was growing up in Kentucky, so I learned by watching our family cook, Cassie Boyd. She never measured anything, but she was a fabulous cook as well as a warm, loving person. She gave me the confidence to follow my instincts when putting flavors together.

Now when I taste something I like at a restaurant, I'll ask the waiter what's in it, so I can try to concoct it at home. That's what happened with this simple goat cheese spread, which is one of a couple that I make. I love anything goat cheese.

spinner image Annie Potts Goat Cheese Schmear
LISA CORSON

Goat Cheese Schmear

Serves 16

Ingredients

  • 8 ounces creamy goat cheese
  • 5 ounces fresh arugula
  • Spritz of lemon
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Put all ingredients into a food processor; pulse until creamy. Use as a dip or spread with vegetables, on bread or crackers, or in a sandwich.

Nutrients per serving: 32 calories, 2g protein, 1g carbohydrates, 0.5g fiber, 3g fat, 10mg cholesterol, 35mg sodium

For expert tips to help feel your best, get AARP’s monthly Health newsletter.

White Bean Dip

spinner image Annie Potts White Bean Dip
LISA CORSON

Serves 16

Ingredients

  • 1 can white beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 clove minced garlic
  • 1/2 teaspoon grated lemon rind
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon salt or to taste
  • 2 minced anchovy fillets (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon finely chopped rosemary (or any herb in season: tarragon, sage, basil, chives), plus sprigs for garnish
  • 1/4 cup olive oil, plus more for drizzling

Blend all ingredients (except olive oil) in a food processor until chunky, then slowly add olive oil and blend until smooth and somewhat fluffy. Garnish with herb sprigs and a drizzle of olive oil.

Nutrients per serving: 49 calories, 1g protein, 4g carbohydrates, 1g fiber, 3.5g fat, 0mg cholesterol, 151mg sodium

I like to keep homemade spreads and dips like these on hand because my hours are always changing. It's hard to know when lunch or dinner is. But I can always slice up some yellow squash, pop it into the microwave for two minutes and then slather it with a schmear. It's really healthy, and it's a lot quicker than going out for fast food.

My three sons are grown, but they're still in and out of the house all the time, and we have a lot of family and friends. Whoever comes by, I feed. If you come to my house, I'm going to feed you! It's great to have something tasty and homemade to offer. —As told to Gina Roberts-Grey

Annie Potts, 66, costars on CBS' Young Sheldon and in Toy Story 4.

Unlock Access to AARP Members Edition

Join AARP to Continue

Already a Member?

spinner image AARP Membership Card

Join AARP today for $16 per year. Get instant access to members-only products and hundreds of discounts, a free second membership, and a subscription to AARP The Magazine.