– It’s that season again, when friends and families gather to celebrate with food and open arms. It’s almost playoff time, and football, basketball, as well as hockey playoffs are just around the corner.

The highly anticipated snacks are also included in these games, including chips and dip as well as wings and hot sauce. There is a lot to be learned from people’s use of dips or sauces. In fact, this usage has increased over the last year.

According to a survey by the Association for Dressings & Sauces, the reasons for using dips and sauces more often include: making more or new foods that need them, using them on more foods or as a healthy option with healthy foods, and cooking or eating at home more. Find the perfect snack for you mid-game and make sure to bring it along to your party in creative and innovative ways.

Here are some tips that will help to choose the best recipe for your friends.

* Survey results show that Asian sauces, horseradish, hot and Mexican sauces are more popular than they were last year, with hot sauce and mustard being used several times a week by the majority of respondents. Use bold flavors and exotic ingredients in your dishes.

* Geography also has something to say about what you should bring to a gathering. Horseradish is more popular in the Northeast. People in the Midwest love barbecue sauces. While hummus and Asian sauces are more popular in the West, the South loves hot sauce.

These tips should inspire you to be creative and bring a unique, tasty contribution to any playoff party. For some recipe ideas, visit these dishes www.dressings-sauces.org/recipes.