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Buttermilk-Blue Cheese Dip

This creamy buttermilk and blue cheese dip is a sophisticated addition to any sharing platter or party spread. The rich, salty notes of the blue cheese are perfectly balanced by the tang of buttermilk and soured cream, while a handful of fresh chives adds a delicate onion flavour. What sets this recipe apart is the addition of quick-pickled red onions, which provide a bright acidity and delightful crunch to every bite.

As a versatile vegetarian dip, it pairs beautifully with crisp vegetable crudités, salty crisps or even spicy buffalo cauliflower wings. It is an excellent make-ahead option for entertaining, as the flavours develop and deepen if chilled for a few hours. Simple to prepare yet impressively flavoured, it is a reliable choice for weekend gatherings or a quiet night in.

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Ingredients for Buttermilk-Blue Cheese Dip

  • 5 tablespoons finely chopped red onion

  • 60ml white wine vinegar

  • 1 teaspoon sugar

  • Pinch of kosher salt plus more

  • 60ml buttermilk

  • 1/4 cup soured cream

  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives

  • 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese

  • Freshly ground black pepper

Place onion in a small heatproof bowl. Bring vinegar, sugar, salt, and 60ml water to a boil. Pour over onion; stir to coat. Cover; let pickle in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.

Whisk buttermilk, soured cream, and chives in a medium bowl until smooth. Stir in blue cheese. Drain pickled onion and stir into dip. Season with salt and pepper. DO AHEAD: Can be made 3 days ahead. Cover dip and refrigerate.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 28 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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