Instructions

1. In a rectangular 12 x 9 inch pan, spread the refried beans evenly. For a twist on making five layer dip, try using refried black beans--they're very good.

2. Take the cream cheese out of the wrapper and soften it in the microwave until it is spreadable. Spread it on top of the refried beans.

3. Sprinkle the black olives evenly over the five layer dip.

4. Now spread the salsa over the black olives. If you want your five layer dip to be spicy, this is where you add the heat!

5. Sprinkle the cheese over the black olives. At this point, you can either heat it up or not, depending on your personal preference. You can even wait until you get to the party to heat it up if you like, count on about 20 minutes at 375 degrees.

6. Shred the lettuce, and chop up the tomatoes and onions. These go on top of the five layer dip, cooked or uncooked. Never cook the five layer dip with the lettuce on top!

7. Of course, you don't have to stop at five layers. Seven layer dip is also very popular, and you can add as many layers as you like! Consider avocado, sour cream, a layer of refried red beans, two layers of cheese...your imagination is the limit!