This Lemon and Herb White Bean Dip is fresh and zesty! Made with creamy white beans, bright lemon juice, and fragrant herbs, it’s perfect for snacking or spreading on toast.
Trust me, this dip is a crowd-pleaser! I can’t help but keep a batch ready because it’s so easy to whip up. Pair it with veggies or crackers for a tasty treat. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
White Beans: I like using cannellini beans for their creaminess, but you can swap in great northern or navy beans if needed. Canned beans save time, but you can also cook dried beans if you prefer.
Lemon Juice and Zest: Fresh lemon juice gives the best flavor! If you’re out of fresh lemons, bottled lemon juice works, but use a little less since it’s often more concentrated.
Herbs: Fresh dill and parsley add great flavor, but if you’re missing one, feel free to mix in other herbs like chives or basil. Dried herbs can be used too; just remember they’re stronger, so use less.
Olive Oil: Extra-virgin olive oil enhances the flavors beautifully. You can substitute with avocado oil for a different twist or if you need a neutral oil.
How Do I Achieve the Perfect Texture for My Dip?
Getting the right smoothness for your white bean dip is key! Here’s how you can nail it:
- Make sure to rinse and drain the beans well to avoid a watery dip.
- A food processor or blender is best for achieving creaminess. Blend until very smooth, pausing to scrape down the sides.
- If it’s too thick, just add a small amount of water or extra olive oil, blending until you get the consistency you like.
- For a more vibrant flavor, taste your dip before serving; you can add extra salt, lemon, or herbs to suit your preference.
With these tips and the right technique, your Lemon and Herb White Bean Dip will come out perfectly creamy and flavorful every time! Enjoy!
How to Make Lemon And Herb White Bean Dip
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Dip:
- 1 can (15 oz) white beans (such as cannellini or great northern beans), drained and rinsed
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for drizzling
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for a bit of heat
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare. There’s no cooking involved—just blending and mixing! It’s quick and easy, plus you can enjoy it right away or store it for later.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Blend the Ingredients:
In a food processor or blender, combine the drained white beans, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, olive oil, minced garlic, chopped dill, chopped parsley, and ground cumin. Pulse and blend the mixture until it’s smooth and creamy. Remember to stop and scrape down the sides a couple of times to ensure everything gets mixed well!
2. Adjust the Texture:
If your dip seems too thick for your liking, just add a teaspoon of water or more olive oil to blend it to a smoother consistency. Keep blending until it’s just how you like it!
3. Season to Taste:
Give your dip a taste test! Add salt and freshly ground black pepper to enhance the flavors. If you want a little heat, sprinkle in a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes and mix again.
4. Serve with Style:
Transfer your delicious dip to a serving bowl. Drizzle a bit of extra olive oil on top and garnish with more fresh herbs if you’d like—this adds a lovely touch!
5. Enjoy with Dippers:
Serve your Lemon and Herb White Bean Dip alongside toasted bread slices, sliced cucumbers, crunchy carrot sticks, or your favorite veggie dippers. Everyone will enjoy this fresh and flavorful treat!
6. Store Leftovers:
If you have any leftover dip, just cover it and pop it in the fridge. It will keep for up to 3 days. Enjoy it chilled or at room temperature whenever you want a tasty snack!
This creamy, zesty dip is bursting with bright flavors from the lemon and fresh herbs, making it an excellent addition to any gathering!
Can I Use Dried Beans Instead of Canned?
Absolutely! If using dried beans, soak and cook them according to package instructions before blending. Make sure they’re tender and fully cooled before you add them to the dip!
Is This Dip Vegan?
Yes! All the ingredients in this Lemon and Herb White Bean Dip are plant-based, making it a delicious option for vegans and vegetarians alike.
Can I Make This Dip Spicier?
Definitely! If you love heat, you can add more crushed red pepper flakes or even a dash of hot sauce while blending. Just taste as you go to find the right level of spice for your liking!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep the dip fresh, it’s best to eat it within that timeframe. Enjoy chilled or at room temperature!
