Lemony Butter Bean & Herb Dip
A light, creamy dip with a bright lemony zing, packed with fresh herbs and silky butter beans. It whips up in minutes and tastes like something you'd find at a mezze spread, perfect with toasted pita or crunchy vegetable sticks.
For 4 servings
- prep
Prep the butter beans and herbs.
1.Drain and rinse the butter beans under cold water.2.Roughly chop the parsley, dill, and mint leaves. - mix · ~2 min
Blend the base until smooth.
1.Add butter beans, tahini, lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, salt, and cumin to the food processor.2.Blend for 1 minute until mostly smooth.3.Scrape down the sides with a spatula. - mix · ~1 min
Add the herbs and adjust consistency.
1.Add the chopped parsley, dill, and mint to the food processor.2.Pulse 4-5 times until herbs are just combined but still visible as flecks of green.3.With the motor running, drizzle in ice water 1 tablespoon at a time until the dip is light and fluffy.TIPIce water makes the dip lighter and airier than room-temp water. Don't skip it. - mix
Season to taste.
1.Taste the dip and adjust with more lemon juice or salt if needed.2.Pulse once more to incorporate any final adjustments. - assemble
Transfer and serve with a generous drizzle.
Spoon the dip into a serving bowl and use the back of a spoon to create swirls on the surface. Drizzle generously with extra virgin olive oil and top with a pinch of dill or parsley.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the silkiest texture, use jarred or canned butter beans and drain them well before blending.
- 2Toast the cumin powder in a dry pan for 30 seconds before adding to deepen its earthy aroma.
- 3Add ice water slowly while the processor runs; it emulsifies the tahini and makes the dip airy.
- 4Let the dip rest for 15 minutes at room temperature before serving for the flavors to meld.
- 5Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days; stir well before serving.
Adapt it for your goals.
Smoky Roasted Red Pepper
Add 1/2 cup of jarred, drained roasted red peppers when blending the base for a smoky-sweet twist and a vibrant orange color.
Vegan & Nut FreeVegan & Nut-Free
This dip is already vegan and nut-free as written; simply double-check your tahini is 100% sesame seeds for absolute safety.
Spicy Harissa SwirlSpicy Harissa Swirl
Swirl 1 tablespoon of harissa paste into the finished dip before drizzling with oil for a warm, North African-inspired heat.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Plant-Based Protein
Butter beans and tahini provide a satisfying protein boost, making this dip a hearty, energizing snack or appetizer.
Loaded with Digestive Fiber
Butter beans are an excellent source of dietary fiber, supporting healthy digestion and helping you feel full longer.
Heart-Healthy Fats from Olive Oil
Extra virgin olive oil contributes monounsaturated fats and antioxidants linked to cardiovascular health.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, but you must soak them overnight and boil until very tender (about 45-60 minutes) before blending, or the dip will be grainy.
