Creamy white bean dip (Printer view)

Smooth and creamy dip blending white beans with garlic and fresh lemon. Ready in 10 minutes.

# What You'll Need:

→ Beans

01 - 2 cups (15 oz can) white beans (cannellini or great northern), drained and rinsed

→ Aromatics & Seasoning

02 - 2 garlic cloves, minced
03 - 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for drizzling
04 - 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
05 - 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
06 - 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

→ Optional Additions

07 - 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
08 - 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or chives, chopped

# Directions:

01 - In a food processor or blender, combine white beans, minced garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
02 - Blend until smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides as needed.
03 - Taste and adjust seasoning, adding more lemon juice, salt, or olive oil as preferred.
04 - For extra flavor, blend in cumin or fresh herbs if desired.
05 - Transfer to a serving bowl, drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with fresh herbs. Serve with pita, vegetables, or crackers.

# Expert Suggestions:

01 -
  • It comes together faster than waiting for delivery and tastes like you hired a caterer.
  • You can dress it up with fancy garnishes or keep it simple, and it always impresses.
  • The creamy texture feels indulgent, but it's packed with protein and totally guilt-free.
  • It works as a dip, a spread, or even thinned into a salad dressing when you need versatility.
02 -
  • If the dip feels too thick, add water a tablespoon at a time instead of more oil, or it can get greasy.
  • Peeling the beans might sound fussy, but it creates an impossibly smooth texture that's worth it for special occasions.
  • Taste before serving because lemon juice can fade as it sits, and you might need a quick squeeze to revive it.
03 -
  • Use a high-powered blender instead of a food processor if you want an ultra-silky texture without peeling the beans.
  • Reserve a few whole beans and some chopped herbs to scatter on top for a rustic, restaurant-style presentation.
  • If the dip tastes flat, it usually needs acid, not salt, so reach for the lemon before the shaker.
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