Herbed White Bean & Marjoram Dip
A quick, creamy, and flavorful dip made from wholesome cannellini beans, bright lemon, and aromatic marjoram, offering a healthier and equally satisfying alternative to traditional hummus.
For 4 servings
Thoroughly rinse the cannellini beans under cold running water until no foam appears, then drain them well. Mince the garlic clove.
Add the rinsed and drained cannellini beans, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, fresh lemon juice, dried marjoram, minced garlic, sea salt, and black pepper to the bowl of a food processor.
Process the mixture on high speed, scraping down the sides of the bowl occasionally with a spatula, until a thick, somewhat chunky paste forms.
With the food processor running, slowly add 2 tablespoons of cold water through the feed tube. Continue to process until the dip becomes smooth and creamy.
If the dip is too thick for your preference, add additional water, one tablespoon at a time, and process until the desired consistency is reached.
Taste the dip and adjust seasonings as needed. You might want to add more salt, a squeeze of lemon juice for extra tang, or a pinch more marjoram to enhance the herbal notes.
Transfer the Herbed White Bean & Marjoram Dip to a serving bowl.
Before serving, create a small well in the center of the dip and drizzle generously with extra virgin olive oil. Optionally, garnish with a sprinkle of fresh marjoram leaves or a dash of smoked paprika.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For an exceptionally smooth dip, you can gently rub the rinsed cannellini beans between your fingers to remove some of their thin skins before blending. This step is optional but yields a silkier texture.
- 2Allow the dip to rest in the refrigerator for at least 15-20 minutes before serving. This brief chill time allows the flavors to meld and deepen, enhancing the overall taste.
- 3If fresh marjoram is available, substitute 1 tablespoon of finely chopped fresh marjoram for the dried variety. It will provide a brighter, more vibrant herbal aroma and flavor.
- 4Serve this dip with a variety of dippers such as warm pita bread, toasted baguette slices, crunchy vegetable sticks (carrots, celery, cucumber, bell peppers), or sturdy crackers.
Adapt it for your goals.
Spicy Kick
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the food processor along with the other ingredients for a subtle heat.
Roasted Garlic InfusionRoasted Garlic Infusion
Instead of raw garlic, use 2-3 cloves of roasted garlic for a sweeter, milder, and more complex garlic flavor. Simply roast a whole head of garlic until soft, then squeeze out the pulp.
Sun Dried Tomato BoostSun-Dried Tomato Boost
Blend in 2-3 oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes (drained) with the beans. This adds a rich, umami depth and a beautiful reddish hue to the dip.
Why this is on our healthy list.
High in Fiber
Cannellini beans are an excellent source of dietary fiber, which supports digestive health, helps regulate blood sugar levels, and promotes a feeling of fullness, aiding in weight management.
Heart-Healthy Fats
Extra virgin olive oil provides monounsaturated fats, known for their benefits in reducing bad cholesterol levels and supporting overall cardiovascular health.
Rich in Nutrients
This dip is packed with essential vitamins and minerals from the beans (like folate, iron, and magnesium) and lemon (Vitamin C), contributing to overall well-being and immune support.
Frequently asked questions
Absolutely! This dip can be prepared up to 3-4 days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. You might need to stir in a tablespoon of water or olive oil to restore its creamy consistency before serving.
