This fresh herb dip is a creamy, tangy and pungent concoction that will please any crowd. You can make it your own by swapping in whichever herbs you have in the kitchen.
A well-made dip can become the centerpiece of any party spread. Our fresh herb dip will have the crowd gathering around and waiting their turn to indulge in this herby and tangy delight (we suggest doubling the recipe).
Mayonnaise and sour cream provide a creamy base and a tanginess that is accentuated by the lemon juice. Minced garlic provides pungency, while the parsley, chives and tarragon add a herbaceous note and bring a vibrancy that livens up the palate.
This fresh herb dip pairs well with whatever dipper you choose to dip into it—crunchy vegetable sticks, potato chips, pretzels and crackers are all great options. It’s one of the best dip recipes for a crowd, so bring it out at a party with the potluck side dishes and your best summer sandwiches, and watch everyone dig in.
Herb Dip Ingredients
- Mayonnaise
- Sour cream
- Parsley
- Chives
- Tarragon
- Lemon juice
- Garlic
- Salt and pepper
- Assorted fresh vegetables
Directions
Step 1: Make the dip
In a large bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, parsley, chives, tarragon, lemon juice, garlic, salt and pepper.
Step 2: Chill and serve
Cover the bowl and refrigerate the dip for one hour. Serve it with fresh vegetables or your dipper of choice.
Editor’s Tip: Giving the dip at least an hour in the fridge is important, as this allows the herbs, spices and condiments to get to know one another and create a homogeneous flavor.

How to Store Herb Dip
Place any leftover dip in an airtight container, then store it in the refrigerator for up to four days. Give it a quick stir before serving to re-assimilate the ingredients.
Herb Dip Tips

What can I serve with this fresh herb dip?
Serve this dip with crackers, pita chips, ridged potato chips, and different crunchy vegetables like celery, bell peppers, carrot sticks and snap peas. You can also use it as more than a dip. Add it to a deli spread alongside your burger toppings, or spread it on tortillas as a base for pinwheels.
What other herbs can I add to this herb dip?
Dill is a great choice to swap into this recipe, as it provides a fresh, grassy flavor. Rosemary and thyme are also valuable additions—they bring different qualities to this herb dip, with earthy, pungent and woodsy flavors and inviting aromas. A bit of cilantro will also add fresh flavor. Feel free to use whatever herbs you have access to—there are no wrong answers.
Can I make this herb dip without dairy?
Adapt this recipe to your dietary preferences by swapping in vegan mayonnaise and dairy-free sour cream. The nondairy herb dip will still be as thick and delicious as the original version.
Ingredients
- 3/4 cup mayonnaise
- 3/4 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup minced fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup minced chives
- 2 tablespoons minced fresh tarragon
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon pepper
- Assorted fresh vegetables
Directions
- In a large bowl, combine the first nine ingredients. Cover and refrigerate for 1 hour. Serve with fresh vegetables.