This Lemon and Herb White Bean Dip is creamy, zesty, and packed with flavor! Made with white beans, fresh herbs, and a splash of lemon juice, it’s perfect for dipping veggies or spreading on bread.
It’s so easy to whip up, I often make it when friends drop by. Just blend everything together, and voilà! It’s refreshing and healthy, and you might just find yourself eating too much (no judgment here!).
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
White Beans: Cannellini or great northern beans work wonders in this dip. If you don’t have these, you can substitute with navy beans or even chickpeas for a different flavor and texture.
Fresh Herbs: Dill and parsley add brightness. If you’re not a fan of dill, try using basil or cilantro for a twist. Fresh herbs truly make the dip shine, but dried herbs can work if fresh isn’t handy.
Tahini: While optional, tahini adds creaminess and depth. You can skip it or replace it with Greek yogurt for a tangy taste. Sunflower seed butter could be a nut-free option that provides creaminess.
Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice is key for that zing! If you’re in a pinch, bottled lemon juice can be used, but fresh always tastes best. Lime juice could work too if you’re feeling adventurous!
How Do I Make Sure My Dip is Creamy and Smooth?
A smooth dip is all about the blending technique. Start with the right consistency of the beans. If they are too dry, the dip can be chunky. Here’s how to get it right:
- Use a powerful food processor. It helps create that creamy texture.
- Add liquid ingredients (like olive oil and lemon juice) first before the beans. This helps them blend more evenly.
- If your dip turns out thick, slowly add cold water or more olive oil, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches your desired creaminess.
Remember to scrape down the sides of the processor midway for even blending. Enjoy your creamy, flavorful dip!
Lemon And Herb White Bean Dip
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked white beans (cannellini or great northern), drained and rinsed if canned
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
- 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for drizzling
- 2 tablespoons tahini (optional, for creaminess)
- 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Lemon slices, for garnish
- Fresh dill sprigs, for garnish
- Pita chips or toasted pita bread, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dip takes about 10 minutes to prepare. It’s super quick and easy, making it perfect for last-minute gatherings or as a quick snack any time! You can enjoy it immediately after making it, but letting it chill for about 30 minutes allows the flavors to meld even more deliciously.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Gather Your Ingredients:
First, make sure you have all your ingredients ready to go! This dip comes together quickly, so it’s good to have everything at hand.
2. Blend the Ingredients:
In a food processor or blender, combine the cooked white beans, minced garlic, fresh lemon juice, olive oil, tahini (if you’re using it), fresh dill, parsley, and ground cumin. Blend everything together until the mixture is smooth and creamy. You may need to stop and scrape down the sides to ensure everything is mixed well.
3. Check the Texture and Flavor:
Once blended, check the texture. If it’s too thick for your liking, add a tablespoon of water or extra olive oil and blend again until you achieve your desired consistency. Taste the dip and season it with salt and black pepper as needed. If you like a more pronounced lemon flavor, feel free to add more lemon juice!
4. Serve it Up:
Transfer the dip into a nice serving bowl. Using the back of a spoon, create a small well in the center. This will hold a drizzle of olive oil for a beautiful presentation!
5. Garnish:
Drizzle a bit of olive oil over the top of your dip to add richness. Garnish with fresh dill sprigs and a slice of lemon for a pop of color and freshness.
6. Get Ready to Enjoy:
Serve your Lemon and Herb White Bean Dip with pita chips, toasted pita bread, or fresh vegetables. Dive in and enjoy the refreshing flavors!
This dip is vibrant and delicious, perfect for any occasion. Enjoy sharing (or not!)—it’s sure to be a hit!
Can I Use Canned White Beans?
Absolutely! Canned white beans are a great time-saver. Just make sure to drain and rinse them well to remove excess sodium and preserve the flavor of the dip.
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
You can store any leftover dip in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Just give it a quick stir before serving again, as the ingredients may settle or thicken over time.
What Can I Serve with This Dip?
This dip pairs beautifully with pita chips, toasted pita bread, veggie sticks (like carrots, cucumbers, or bell peppers), or even as a spread on sandwiches! Feel free to get creative!
Can I Freeze This Dip?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the dip for up to 2 months. Just be aware that the texture might change slightly after thawing. To freeze, place it in an airtight container, and thaw it in the fridge overnight before serving.
