If you have been on the lookout for a dip that is not only bursting with fresh flavors but also incredibly smooth and satisfying, this Creamy White Bean and Herb Dip Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. It combines the subtle creaminess of white beans with a vibrant mix of spring herbs, garlic, and lemon, bringing a bright, wholesome taste that will charm your taste buds at any gathering. This dip is simple enough for a quick snack yet elegant enough to impress guests, making it a versatile staple to keep on hand whenever you want something fresh and flavorful to serve.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Creamy White Bean and Herb Dip Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredient list. Each component plays an essential role, from adding freshness and zing to creating a luscious texture and appealing color that makes this dip a true crowd-pleaser.
- Parsley: Use a fresh, half bunch with thick stems discarded for a bright, herbaceous foundation.
- Chives: A quarter cup of finely cut chives offers a mild onion flavor that complements the beans beautifully.
- Mint leaves: Adding a quarter cup of loosely packed mint leaves brings a refreshing twist that lifts the whole dip.
- Garlic: One to two large cloves provide just the right hint of pungency and warmth.
- Lemon juice: The juice of one large lemon adds essential acidity to brighten and balance the creaminess.
- Kosher or sea salt: A teaspoon to season and enhance the natural flavors.
- White beans: Two 15.5-ounce cans (Great Northern, Navy, or Cannellini), rinsed and drained for that smooth, creamy base.
- Runny tahini: Half a cup of high-quality tahini contributes nuttiness and an ultra-silky texture.
- Ice-cold water: Between three-quarters to a full cup, this adjusts the dip’s consistency perfectly from thick spread to luscious cream.
How to Make Creamy White Bean and Herb Dip Recipe
Step 1: Roughly Chop the Herbs
Start by preparing your ice-cold water, which will help achieve the dip’s signature creamy texture. Add the parsley, chives, mint, garlic, lemon juice, and salt into your food processor fitted with the S-blade. Pulse and process for about 45 to 60 seconds, pausing to scrape down the sides every 15 to 20 seconds. This method ensures the herbs are cut down just enough to release their bright, fresh flavors without turning into a puree.
Step 2: Add and Process the Beans
Next, toss in your drained and rinsed white beans. Blend them for 30 to 45 seconds until they are mostly broken down, creating the foundation of that creamy body you’re aiming for. This step is vital for getting the dip silky smooth without losing the satisfying bean texture.
Step 3: Blend with Tahini and Water
Pour the tahini directly over the beans in the processor, seal it, and start blending again. Slowly pour in the ice-cold water while the machine runs, allowing the mixture to emulsify and swell into a luscious cream. If you prefer a thicker spread, stick to ¾ cup of water; for a truly smooth, pourable dip, go with a full cup. Keep blending continuously for about five minutes to incorporate air and build a beautifully rich texture.
Step 4: Taste and Adjust
Once blended, give your dip a quick taste test. Add some extra salt or lemon juice if you’d like to brighten things further. Use a spatula to scrape out the dip into a serving bowl, then consider topping it with a drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of fresh herbs to make it look as good as it tastes.
How to Serve Creamy White Bean and Herb Dip Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herb sprigs like parsley, chives, or mint are fantastic for garnish, echoing the dip’s vibrant, green goodness. A light drizzle of fruity olive oil adds a glossy finish and an extra layer of richness that beckons your guests to dip in right away.
Side Dishes
This dip pairs wonderfully with warm pita bread, crisp vegetable sticks such as carrots and cucumbers, or a crunchy artisan baguette. It’s also a delightful complement to charcuterie boards or alongside grilled meats, delivering a cooling contrast to spices and smoky flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Get playful by serving this dip on a beautiful platter surrounded by a colorful array of crudités, nuts, and olives. Or, use it as a spread on sandwiches and wraps for an herbaceous twist. Another idea is to dollop it onto baked potatoes or grilled veggies as a creamy, flavorful sauce alternative.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Creamy White Bean and Herb Dip Recipe in an airtight container in the fridge. It will keep well for up to one week, though expect the dip to thicken as it chills. Simply stir in a splash of water or olive oil before serving if you’d like to restore its smooth texture.
Freezing
While this dip can be frozen, fresh herbs tend to lose their vibrant flavor when thawed. If you choose to freeze it, transfer the dip to a freezer-safe container and plan to use it within two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and stir well before serving.
Reheating
This dip is best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature. If you prefer it warm, gently warm a small portion in the microwave, stirring frequently, but avoid overheating to maintain its best texture and flavor.
FAQs
Can I use other types of beans for this dip?
Absolutely! While Great Northern, Navy, or Cannellini beans are classic choices for their creamy texture, you can experiment with butter beans or even chickpeas for a slightly different flavor and consistency.
Is tahini necessary in this Creamy White Bean and Herb Dip Recipe?
Tahini is key to adding nuttiness and richness that lifts the dish beyond a simple bean dip. If you don’t have tahini, try using a mild nut butter or a bit of olive oil, but the flavor will shift, so tahini is highly recommended.
How can I make this dip vegan and gluten-free?
Good news: this dip is naturally vegan and gluten-free! All ingredients are plant-based, and it pairs perfectly with gluten-free dippers like veggie sticks or gluten-free crackers.
Can I add spice to this dip?
Definitely! Adding a pinch of cayenne pepper, a splash of hot sauce, or even some chopped jalapeño to the processor brings a nice kick that contrasts beautifully with the fresh herbs and creamy beans.
What is the best way to keep the dip fresh on a party table?
Serve the dip in small batches and replenish as needed. Keep the main container covered and refrigerated until ready to serve again, and always use clean utensils to avoid contamination.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly comforting about a dip that balances creamy texture and fresh, vibrant flavors so effortlessly. This Creamy White Bean and Herb Dip Recipe is a kitchen winner you’ll find yourself turning to again and again, whether for a quick snack or a festive appetizer. So go ahead, gather those simple ingredients, whip it up, and share this delightful dip with friends and family—you’re in for a deliciously smooth treat!
PrintCreamy White Bean and Herb Dip Recipe
This Creamy White Bean Dip with Spring Herbs is a fresh, vibrant appetizer perfect for any occasion. Combining parsley, chives, and mint with creamy white beans and tahini, this dip is smooth, flavorful, and easy to prepare in just 15 minutes. Ideal for serving with fresh vegetables, crackers, or toasted bread, this recipe offers a healthy, protein-packed snack with a refreshing herbal twist.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Herbs and Flavorings
- 1/2 bunch of parsley, thick stems discarded
- 1/4 cup (8g) chives, cut into 1/2″ pieces
- 1/4 cup (4g) loosely packed mint leaves
- 1–2 large cloves of garlic
- Juice of 1 large lemon (3 to 4 tablespoons)
- 1 teaspoon kosher or sea salt
Main Ingredients
- 2 15.5-ounce (440 g) cans of Great Northern, Navy, or Cannelini beans, drained and rinsed
- 1/2 cup (140 g) high-quality, runny tahini
- 3/4 – 1 cup (175-235 ml) ice-cold water
Instructions
- Prepare the Herbs: Add the parsley, chives, mint, garlic, lemon juice, and salt to a food processor fitted with the S-blade. Process for 45-60 seconds until the herbs are coarsely chopped, stopping every 15-20 seconds to scrape down the sides with a spatula.
- Add the Beans: Add the drained white beans to the food processor and pulse/process for 30 to 45 seconds until the beans are mostly broken down.
- Blend with Tahini and Water: Pour the tahini over the beans, reseal the food processor, and begin running. Slowly stream in the ice-cold water while the machine runs. Continue to blend continuously for 5 minutes, adjusting the water amount between 3/4 cup for a thicker spread or up to 1 cup for a creamier dip.
- Season and Serve: Taste the dip and adjust salt if needed. Transfer to a serving bowl with a spatula. Optionally, top with extra fresh herbs or a drizzle of olive oil. Refrigerate any leftovers in an airtight container for up to one week; note that the dip will thicken when chilled.
Notes
- Use ice-cold water to help achieve a creamy texture in the dip.
- Feel free to adjust the amount of garlic according to your taste preferences.
- The dip can thicken in the refrigerator; stir in a small amount of water before serving if needed.
- This dip pairs well with fresh vegetables, crackers, or warm pita bread.
- For best flavor, use high-quality tahini with a smooth, runny consistency.
