This lemon and herb white bean dip is refreshing and creamy, perfect for dipping your favorite veggies or chips. Packed with flavor, it’s a healthy twist on classic snacks!
Making this dip is super easy! I just blend the beans with lemon, herbs, and a touch of garlic. It’s a hit at parties, and I love that I can whip it up in no time!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
White Beans: Cannellini or great northern beans work great here. They create a smooth texture. If you’re looking for alternatives, you can use chickpeas for a slightly nuttier flavor.
Lemon Juice & Zest: Fresh lemons are ideal for a bright flavor. If you don’t have fresh lemons, bottled lemon juice is a backup, but the taste won’t be as vibrant.
Olive Oil: Extra-virgin olive oil adds richness. If you’re avoiding oil, use vegetable broth instead for a lighter version. I enjoy a drizzle of good olive oil on top for extra flavor.
Herbs: Fresh dill and parsley are fantastic for this recipe. If you’re low on fresh herbs, dried versions can work too, but use less as they are more potent. You could also replace dill with basil or cilantro if you prefer.
Garlic: Fresh garlic adds a punch. If you like milder flavors, you can roast the garlic beforehand for a sweeter taste.
How Do You Make It Extra Creamy?
The key to a super creamy dip is blending! Here’s how to get the right consistency:
- First, ensure your white beans are well-drained and rinsed. This helps avoid any excess liquid.
- When blending, start on a low speed to combine the ingredients and gradually increase to high. This incorporates air and gives you a creamier texture.
- If it seems too thick, add water or olive oil gradually until you achieve your desired creaminess.
- Don’t rush; scraping the sides of the food processor helps it blend evenly.
With these tips, your dip will be smooth, creamy, and delicious! Perfect for sharing at parties or enjoying as a snack any time. Enjoy making it!
How to Make Lemon And Herb White Bean Dip
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Base Ingredients:
- 1 can (15 oz) white beans (such as cannellini or great northern), drained and rinsed
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, plus extra for drizzling
- 1 garlic clove, minced
Herbs and Seasoning:
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped, plus extra sprigs for garnish
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For Garnishing:
- Lemon slices, for garnish
- Fresh dill, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare. It’s quick and effortless! Just gather your ingredients, blend them up, and you’re ready to serve this delicious dip.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Blend the Base Ingredients:
In a food processor or blender, combine the drained white beans, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, extra-virgin olive oil, minced garlic, chopped dill, and chopped parsley. Add in the ground cumin if you’d like that extra warmth in flavor. Blend everything together until it’s smooth and creamy.
2. Adjust the Consistency:
Sometimes the dip may turn out thicker than you want. If that’s the case, simply add 1-2 tablespoons of water or a bit more olive oil. Keep blending until you reach your desired creaminess.
3. Season to Taste:
Give the dip a little taste, and add salt and freshly ground black pepper according to your preference. This step is essential because it brings all the flavors to life!
4. Prepare for Serving:
Transfer the smooth dip to a lovely serving bowl. For a fun touch, use the back of a spoon to create a swirl pattern on the surface of the dip.
5. Garnish:
Drizzle a little extra olive oil over the top for richness, and then decorate with lemon slices and fresh dill sprigs. It not only looks beautiful but also adds more flavor!
6. Enjoy with Dippers:
Serve your dip immediately with toasted pita bread, fresh vegetable sticks (like carrots and cucumbers), or any dippers of your choice. It’s a vibrant and delicious treat that everyone will love!
This lemon and herb white bean dip is perfect for gatherings or a healthy snack at home. Enjoy every creamy bite!
Can I Use Different Types of Beans?
Absolutely! While cannellini and great northern beans are great choices for their creamy texture, you can also use chickpeas, navy beans, or any other white bean variety. Just make sure they are well-drained and rinsed before blending.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It may thicken slightly as it cools, so feel free to add a splash of water or olive oil and give it a little stir before serving it again.
Can I Make This Dip Ahead of Time?
Yes! This dip can be prepared a day in advance. Just make sure to store it in the fridge in an airtight container. The flavors will meld beautifully overnight!
What Can I Use If I Don’t Have Fresh Herbs?
If you’re out of fresh herbs, dried herbs can work in a pinch! Use about one-third of the amount called for with fresh herbs, as dried herbs are more concentrated. However, fresh herbs do add a vibrant flavor that’s hard to match.
